In a heartwarming display of recognition for honesty and integrity, Plateau State Governor, Caleb Mutfwang, has rewarded two pilgrims from the state for their remarkable actions during the 2025 Hajj pilgrimage in Saudi Arabia. The governor presented Zainab Idris with a cash reward of One Million Naira (N1,000,000) for returning $5,000 she found to its rightful owner, a citizen of Tajikistan. Additionally, Malam Ayuku was gifted a brand-new phone for returning a lost iPhone during the same pilgrimage. These gestures underscore the governor’s commitment to promoting and rewarding good character and ethical behavior among citizens of Plateau State.
The presentation ceremony took place at the Muslim Pilgrim Welfare Board in Jos, where Governor Mutfwang, represented by the Executive Secretary of the Board, Alhaji Dayyabu Dauda, praised the pilgrims for their exemplary conduct. The event was attended by officials of the board, community leaders, and well-wishers, all gathered to celebrate the integrity and goodwill displayed by Zainab Idris and Malam Ayuku. The governor’s representative emphasized that the rewards were not only a token of appreciation but also a means to encourage others to emulate such acts of honesty, which reflect positively on the state and the nation as a whole.
Zainab Idris, a devoted pilgrim from Plateau State, discovered the sum of $5,000 while in Saudi Arabia for the 2025 Hajj. Rather than keeping the money, she took it upon herself to search for the rightful owner, eventually reuniting the funds with a grateful citizen from Tajikistan. Her selfless act of honesty did not go unnoticed, as it resonated with the values of integrity and compassion that the Hajj pilgrimage seeks to embody. Similarly, Malam Ayuku’s decision to return a lost iPhone to its owner further highlighted the moral uprightness of Plateau State’s pilgrims during the sacred journey.
During the ceremony, Alhaji Dayyabu Dauda, speaking on behalf of Governor Mutfwang, expressed immense pride in the actions of the two pilgrims. “We are proud of these pilgrims because they have proved to the world that they are of good character,” he stated. He recalled that prior to their departure for the Holy Land, Governor Mutfwang had urged all pilgrims from Plateau State to serve as ambassadors of the state and the nation, demonstrating exemplary behavior in all their dealings. “They have justified the governor’s charge to them, and we are indeed proud of their actions,” Dauda added.
The Executive Secretary further relayed the governor’s message, which called on all citizens of Plateau State and Nigerians at large to emulate the exemplary conduct of Idris and Ayuku. “Governor Mutfwang has advised that we should always be good people, wherever we find ourselves,” Dauda reiterated. He emphasized that such acts of integrity not only bring honor to the individuals involved but also elevate the reputation of Plateau State and Nigeria on the global stage. The governor’s call to action serves as a reminder that honesty and ethical behavior are timeless values that should guide interactions in all spheres of life.
For Zainab Idris, the One Million Naira reward is more than just a financial boost; it is a recognition of her commitment to doing what is right, even when no one is watching. In her response during the ceremony, Idris expressed deep gratitude to Governor Mutfwang, describing him as a father figure whose leadership inspires citizens to uphold moral values. “I am truly grateful for this reward,” she said, her voice filled with emotion. “This money will go a long way in supporting my business, and I thank the governor for his kindness and encouragement.” Her words reflected not only her appreciation but also her determination to continue living a life of integrity.
Malam Ayuku, the recipient of the new phone, also expressed his gratitude for the recognition. While his reward may seem modest in comparison, the gesture carries significant weight, as it acknowledges his decision to prioritize honesty over personal gain. The act of returning a valuable item like an iPhone, which could easily have been kept or sold, speaks volumes about his character and his commitment to the principles of fairness and justice.
The rewards given to Idris and Ayuku are part of Governor Mutfwang’s broader vision to foster a culture of integrity and accountability in Plateau State. By publicly recognizing and rewarding such acts, the governor is sending a clear message: honesty is a virtue that will always be celebrated and supported. This initiative also aligns with the state’s efforts to promote positive values among its citizens, particularly in the context of religious and communal activities like the Hajj, which emphasize selflessness, compassion, and ethical conduct.
The actions of Zainab Idris and Malam Ayuku during the 2025 Hajj have not only brought pride to their families and communities but have also shone a positive light on Plateau State. Their stories serve as an inspiration to others, proving that small acts of kindness and honesty can have far-reaching impacts. As the news of their recognition spreads, it is hoped that more individuals will be motivated to act with integrity in their daily lives, whether at home or abroad.
Governor Mutfwang’s gesture of rewarding these pilgrims also highlights the importance of leadership in promoting ethical behavior. By taking the time to acknowledge and celebrate the actions of Idris and Ayuku, the governor is reinforcing the idea that good character is a cornerstone of a thriving society. His administration’s focus on rewarding positive behavior is a step toward building a state where citizens are encouraged to uphold the values of honesty, compassion, and responsibility.
In a world where negative news often dominates headlines, the story of Zainab Idris and Malam Ayuku stands out as a beacon of hope and a reminder of the power of doing good. Their actions during the 2025 Hajj pilgrimage demonstrate that integrity is not just a personal virtue but a universal language that transcends borders and cultures. As Plateau State continues to celebrate its citizens’ achievements, the recognition of these two pilgrims will undoubtedly inspire others to follow in their footsteps, creating a ripple effect of positive change in the state and beyond.
The ceremony concluded with a call to action for all Nigerians to take pride in their ability to make a difference through small but meaningful acts of honesty. As Governor Mutfwang’s administration continues to champion such values, the hope is that more citizens will be inspired to act as ambassadors of integrity, both within Nigeria and on the global stage. For Zainab Idris and Malam Ayuku, their actions in Saudi Arabia have not only earned them rewards but have also cemented their legacy as individuals of exceptional character, whose stories will inspire generations to come.
