The Plateau Man of the Year Awards (PMYA) is set to introduce a new leadership dialogue as it marks its 12th edition, with governorship candidates in the state expected to present their visions and policy priorities for Plateau.
Organisers, COA Media, announced that the 12th edition, tagged “PMYA @12 — THE STANDARD,” will hold on Sunday, January 10, 2027, at Usiju World Event Centre, Jos.
The new Plateau State Governorship Candidates’ Manifesto & Leadership Dialogue will form part of the programme and provide a non-partisan platform for participating candidates to discuss issues affecting the state and outline their plans for its future.
According to the organisers, the dialogue will focus on critical areas including governance, peace and security, economic development, youth empowerment, education, healthcare, infrastructure, tourism, investment and sustainable development.
COA Media said the platform would operate independently of political parties and campaign organisations, with participating candidates given equal opportunity to present their ideas and leadership agenda.
Established in 2014, PMYA has, over the years, recognised individuals, institutions and organisations for their achievements, leadership, service and contributions to Plateau State and beyond.
The 12th edition carries the theme, **“Leadership Beyond Politics: Building a Legacy for Future Generations,”** with organisers saying the focus will be on merit, achievement, impact and the enduring value of service.
The highest honour of the awards, the **Plateau Man of the Year — Star Category**, has previously been conferred on prominent Plateau figures including Amb. Yahaya Kwande, Senator Simon Bako Lalong, Dame Pauline Tallen, Dr Chris Kwaja, Hon. Beni Lar, Chief Dauda Wuritka-Gotring, Rt. Hon. Ahmed Idris Wase, Sir Joseph Ari, Chief Engr. Meshach Maichibi, Governor Caleb Mutfwang and Prof. Nentawe Yilwatda.
Meanwhile, nominations for PMYA @12 are scheduled to open on October 7 and close on October 28, 2026.
The organisers said the awards will cover categories including leadership, governance, business, entrepreneurship, humanitarian service, education, healthcare, youth development, agriculture, media, technology, entertainment, culture, professional excellence and community impact.
Speaking on the edition, Executive Director of COA Media and Event Director of PMYA, Amb. Cletus Akhimien, said the 12th edition was an opportunity to reaffirm the standard for recognising achievement, leadership and impact while encouraging conversations around the kind of leadership and legacy future generations should inherit.
The event is scheduled for 2:00 p.m. on January 10, 2027, at Usiju World Event Centre, Jos.
