By Admin
A Community leader and philanthropist, Da Gyang Dudu Dalyop, has been honoured with a pencil portrait in recognition of his support for youth development and selfless service to humanity.
The presentation was made on Saturday during a private sit-out at Signature 58, along Bukuru Expressway, which drew friends, associates, and mentees who described him as a unifying figure across Plateau State.
The portrait was presented by Gshut Nyap, a pencil artist based in Jos, who said Da Gyang Dudu has been a major source of inspiration in his career. “I have been doing this art for a very long time, but Dara has been one of my inspirations.
Sometimes I want to give up, but seeing what he has done for the youth keeps me going,” Nyap said. He added that the gesture was a token of appreciation for Dalyop’s encouragement to young people to choose purpose over mischief.
Speaking at the gathering, Da Gyang Dudu Dalyop said the meeting was simply a time for friends to share good moments and deepen relationships.
He explained that a friend donated two goats while others contributed fish and drinks for the informal get-together at Signature 58. “It’s about life, transmitting life, connecting to people. If you don’t meet people, how will you progress?” he said.
Dalyop noted that the artist had initially planned to deliver the portrait to his home, but he requested that it be presented in an open space so others could learn from the example.
“Whatever you do, you are creating impression in so many people’s lives. What I do impacts lives, and these lives are testifying to that,” he said.
He stressed that he is a natural person whose work speaks through the people he has helped.
On his approach to life and relationships, the BECO President said he learned from his father, who was his biggest role model. “He showed me so much love and transmitted that into my being.
I do things naturally, without stress. If you offend me, it doesn’t take long for me to forget. When I do good, I forget and move on,” Dalyop stated. He revealed that his car was stolen in December, but he chose to keep moving because of what God has done for him.
Dalyop’s philanthropy has cut across religious and ethnic lines. He contributed to the roofing of COCIN Church LCC Scott-Vwang and donated 100 windows to the church, a gesture that later earned him an Award of Excellence from the church leadership.
He noted that the recognition came more than seven years after the donation, underscoring his preference to serve without seeking publicity.
Also present at the event was retired Controller of Customs, Dung Pam Ayuba Dakim, who described Dalyop as a wonderful person and longtime friend from their days in the Nigeria Customs Service.
Dakim said they continue to connect in retirement and support one another, adding that the sit-out at Signature 58 was organized by their colleague, Isa, who provided two goats for the gathering. He used the opportunity to call on government to create platforms that challenge and engage talented youths.
Dr. Dung Sunday, a healthcare practitioner based in Lagos, described Dalyop as a mentor who has consistently provided direction for younger people.
“We have been in Lagos together since he was serving. He held us together and still continues in bringing unity. This kind of gathering is for us to share common purpose,” he said.
He added that with mentors like Dalyop and Dakim, Plateau youths are well guided.
Edward Gyang Pam, another beneficiary, recounted how Dalyop supported his education, sponsored his DJ training in Maiduguri, and assisted his family during school and marriage.
“He picked interest in me when I was a child. He is very patient. His tolerance, even when you hurt him, he gives people long rope. He supports whatever is positive and adds value to society,” Pam said. He credited Dalyop with transforming BECO to a higher level during his leadership.
Attendees agreed that Dalyop’s legacy of bridge-building, humility, and empowerment continues to inspire Plateau youths and elders alike.
They described him as a symbol of unity whose life of service transcends tribe and religion, urging others to emulate his commitment to people and community development across Plateau North and beyond.
