By Golok Nanmwa,Jos
A House of Representatives aspirant on the platform of the All Progressives Congress, APC, and former vice President of the National Association of Nigerian Students, NANS, Prince Miaphen, has commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu over the adoption of direct primaries, saying the system will end candidate imposition and boost youth participation ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Miaphen, who is contesting to represent Mikang, Shendam and Qua’an Pan Federal Constituency of Plateau State, made the remarks during his ongoing consultations with APC stakeholders across the three local government areas.
He addressed party leaders in Shendam after similar meetings in Mikang and Qua’an Pan, where he reaffirmed his ambition, mobilised grassroots support and strengthened ties with party stakeholders.
“The essence of this consultation is to carry everyone along. “
“The party remains the bedrock of any political success. When you engage your people from the grassroots, you build trust and ensure that governance reflects the desires of the people,” he said.
He noted that the direct primary system has restored internal democracy within political parties by giving all members a voice in the selection of candidates.
“Before now, the process was restrictive and discouraged many young and popular aspirants. But with direct primaries, every member now has a say. This is a major boost for youth participation and democratic fairness,” he added.
The former NANS president expressed confidence in his chances, citing his long-standing relationship with constituents and years of community service.
“I have lived among my people and served them in different capacities. I understand their needs. With this system, I believe the people will decide and entrust me with the mandate,” he said.
He reaffirmed his loyalty to the APC, describing it as a party that promotes inclusiveness, internal democracy and equal opportunity.
Miaphen also commended the Tinubu-led administration for appointing more Plateau indigenes into national positions, saying it reflects growing recognition of the state’s contributions.
On his legislative agenda, he promised to bring energy, capacity, integrity and intellectual depth to representation, with a focus on attracting federal projects to the constituency.
He listed his priority areas to include education, healthcare, agriculture, infrastructure and entrepreneurship, with special emphasis on youth and women empowerment.
“Our people are industrious. What they need is support, access to opportunities, grants and enabling policies to thrive. My mission is to provide that through effective representation,” he said.
Miaphen pledged to build on past achievements while introducing innovative, people-oriented policies.
“My leadership will be anchored on inclusiveness, consultation and accountability. I will ensure that the voices of our people are heard and their interests protected,” he added.
Meanwhile, stakeholders in the constituency have expressed support for his aspiration, commending his grassroots approach and consistent engagement.
The APC Chairman in Mikang, Mr. Peleng Caleb, described his ambition as a welcome development and expressed optimism for quality representation.
Similarly, the APC Chairman in Shendam, Hon. Nuhu Rangmen, commended Miaphen’s commitment and assured him of the party’s support.
In Qua’an Pan, APC Chairman, Alhaji Bala Idris, lauded the aspirant’s consultative style, noting that it promotes unity and strengthens the party.
Also speaking, a representative of ward chairmen, Mr. Dayit Raymond, said Miaphen’s outreach had inspired confidence among party faithful and would enhance unity, effective representation and sustainable development in the constituency.