At the 20th Anniversary Convention of the Plateau State Association in the USA (PSA-USA) in Lanham, Maryland, APC National Chairman Prof. Nentawe Yilwatda identified poverty as a key driver of Nigeria’s insurgency, kidnapping, and insecurity.
Speaking at the event themed “Poverty Alleviation: A Pathway to Peaceful Co-existence,” Yilwatda, represented by Dr. Patrick Dakum, called poverty a “hydra-headed monster,” noting that 63% of Nigerians live in multidimensional poverty.
He emphasized that security solutions require more than military action, stating, “Only 30% of security lies with force; 70% depends on education, skills, and good governance.”
Yilwatda praised the launch of PSA-USA’s R64 Diaspora Campaign Fund, which supports rehabilitation and resettlement across Plateau State’s 17 local government areas and 64 wards, boosting Nigeria’s global image.
PSA-USA President Dr. Bartholomew Shepkong hailed the fund as a vital step for infrastructure, relief, and long-term recovery for displaced communities.
Reflecting on the association’s 20-year legacy, he said, “The next twenty years must focus on transformation and impact. We are protagonists in Plateau’s story.”
Plateau State House Speaker Naanlong Daniel called for stronger diaspora-lawmaker collaboration to advance democratic laws, while HRH Miskoom Martin Shaldas III urged sustained contributions to state development.
The two-day event featured the R64 fund launch, cultural displays, networking, and awards recognizing excellence in education, entrepreneurship, public service, humanitarian work, and diaspora leadership.
