The legacy of late Professor Janet Punyit Plang, a scholar and advocate of gender equality, was celebrated in Jos as family members, colleagues and political leaders gathered for the presentation of a book she co-authored on gender gaps and national development.
The event, held at Langfield Leisure Park, Little Rayfield, Jos, also marked the 60th birthday of her husband, Senator Diket Satso Plang, representing Plateau Central Senatorial District, and the send-forth ceremony of their daughter, Miss Nandes Deborah Plang.
Titled Gender Gaps in Human Studies and National Development, the book examines inequalities affecting women in education, leadership, employment and access to resources, while highlighting the importance of gender inclusion in national development.
Reviewing the publication, Professor Irene Miracle Agunloye said gender inequality remained rooted in cultural traditions, policy frameworks and institutional practices, stressing that sustainable development could not be achieved without addressing these barriers.
She recalled the late professor’s commitment to advancing women’s participation in leadership and education, particularly at the University of Jos, and urged Senator Plang to establish an annual scholarship scheme for indigent female students in her memory.
The co-author, Mrs Ekaette Akpabio, represented by Mrs Fatima Yaro, described the book as a call to action, urging government, institutions, families and individuals to promote equal opportunities for women and girls.
She said the publication offered practical solutions to gender inequality and called on Nigerians to read and apply its recommendations in their homes, schools and institutions.
Speaking at the presentation, Senator Plang said his late wife remained committed to the project even while receiving medical treatment in London, regularly following up with contributors to ensure its completion.
He described the presentation as the fulfilment of her vision, stressing that the purpose was to make her intellectual contribution available to the public rather than raise money.
“It’s not about money, but it is about fulfillment of my wife’s thought that that book is in the public,” he said.
The Deputy Governor of Plateau State, Ngo Josephine Chundung Piyo, who represented Governor Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang, said the late professor’s contributions to education and the empowerment of the girl child would remain part of her enduring legacy.
She also commended Senator Plang’s political journey from councillor to senator and congratulated the family on the three occasions.
Similarly, Dr Yahaya Hyat, who represented Senate President Godswill Akpabio, paid tribute to the late professor, describing her death as a painful loss to the family and those who knew her.
The APC National Chairman, Professor Nentawe Yilwatda Goshwe, represented by the Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction, Dr Bernard Doro, commended the family for completing the project, describing it as a valuable contribution to knowledge and national development.
The newly appointed Vice-Chancellor of the University of Jos, Professor Patricia Lar, also honoured the late professor for her gender equality advocacy and pledged that the university library would acquire copies of the book.
At the send-forth ceremony, Rev. Titus Gukwat of COCIN Yantrailer urged guests to embrace gratitude and contentment in a sermon titled “Rejoice in the Lord Always,” drawn from Philippians 4:4-7.
He warned that ingratitude, greed and unhealthy competition often arise when people focus on what they lack instead of appreciating their blessings.
Goodwill messages were delivered by former Plateau governors and senators, including Senator Simon Bako Lalong, Senator Joshua Dariye, Dame Pauline Tallen and Hon. Beni Lar.
The event brought together government officials, serving senators, academics, traditional rulers, family members and friends to honour the late professor’s contributions, celebrate Senator Plang’s milestone and wish their daughter well as she begins a new chapter.
