Governor Kefas Reiterates Commitment To Develop All Sectors Of Taraba Economy

The Governor of Taraba State Agbu Kefas says his administration has focused on policies and projects designed to uplift communities, strengthen economy, and secure a brighter future for all.

The governor in a statewide broadcast to mark 33 years of creation of the state on August 27th 1991, said the day symbolizes a shared identity, unity and collective determination to build a prosperous future.

According to him, the day also reflects on the journey so far, the challenges and a renewed commitment to the progress of the state.

He reiterated that since assumption of office, he has been driven by one purpose, the well being and prosperity of every citizen of Taraba.

The Governor insisted that his administration has made significant impact in all spheres of the state’s economy and will not relent until he gets it right and the economy working again as he reels out his achievements.

“Achievements and Interventions Education and Healthcare for Our Children: We have made significant strides in ensuring that education is free and compulsory for every child in Taraba State.

“In healthcare, we are prioritising the needs of our children by making medical services more accessible and affordable, ensuring that our future leaders grow up healthy and strong.

“Economic Empowerment and Infrastructure Development: Through the Taraba Development Master Plan 2023-2050, we have laid out a comprehensive strategy for sustainable development. Our efforts to complete legacy road projects in the state are aimed at boosting economic activities, creating jobs, and reducing poverty across our state.

“Local Governance and Autonomy: We have ensured that our local governments have the autonomy they need to effectively manage their own affairs. This step, in line with the Supreme Court judgment, strengthens grassroots governance and guarantees that resources are utilized where they are most needed.

“Managing Natural Resources: By regulating and harnessing our vast mineral resources through the Taraba State Mineral Resources Company Limited, we are not only increasing our internally generated revenue but also paving the way for long-term economic stability ”

“Flood Control and Disaster Management: Our state is facing significant challenges due to flooding, affecting the lives and livelihoods of many of our citizens. In response, we have established a Flood Control Team across all 168 wards, focusing on emergency management and proactive measures to prevent future disasters. We are committed to finding lasting solutions to these challenges, working closely with experts and communities to mitigate the impact of flooding on our people.

“Civil Servants’ Welfare, Training, and Career Development: Our civil servants are the backbone of our administration, and their welfare is paramount to the success of our state. We are committed to not only ensuring prompt payment of salaries and pensions but also to enhancing their career prospects through continuous training and development programs. By investing in their skills and professional growth, we ensure that our workforce is well-equipped to meet the demands of modern governance.

“Furthermore, our administration is fully committed to implementing the federal government’s decision on the minimum wage. This commitment reflects our dedication to improving the standard of living for our civil servants and ensuring that their hard work is duly rewarded.

“Addressing Security Challenges: Security remains a top priority for our administration. We are strengthening collaboration with the military, security agencies, traditional institutions, and neighboring states, including our counterparts in Cameroon. Furthermore, Through the establishment of a joint intelligence network, we will be enhancing our capacity to address security threats across all 16 local government areas and 168 wards. We are also expanding the operational status of the Taraba Marshall to include hunters, vigilante groups, and other community security services, thereby creating a robust system that ensures the safety of our people ”

“Learning from Challenges: The recent national protests were a powerful reminder of the pressing issues that we must continue to address-corruption, unemployment, and poor infrastructure. These challenges resonate deeply within our state. In response, we have intensified our collaboration with the federal government to implement policy adjustments that directly address these concerns. We are also engaging with our youth, inviting them to be active participants in shaping their future and ensuring that their voices are heard and their needs are met ”

“In these times of both progress and challenge, I want to assure you that our best days are ahead of us. We have faced obstacles, but we have also shown resilience and strength. Our administration remains committed.

“Transparency and Accountability: We will continue to build a government that operates with integrity, ensuring that every action taken is in the best interest of the people of Taraba.

“Youth Empowerment: We will expand programs focused on skills development, entrepreneurship, and employment opportunities for our young people. They are the future of our state, and we will leave no stone unturned in ensuring they are well-equipped to lead.

“Inclusive Development: We are dedicated to ensuring that every part of Taraba State benefits from our development agenda. No community will be left behind as we strive to improve infrastructure, healthcare, education, and economic opportunities across the state.

“Collaborative Governance: We will continue to work hand-in-hand with the federal government, local governments, traditional rulers, civil society, and our international partners to drive the development of Taraba State.

“As we celebrate the creation of our state, let us do so with pride in what we’ve achieved and with hope for what lies ahead.

“Together, we will continue to build a Taraba State that is strong, united, and prosperous. This is our land, our heritage, and our future. Let us commit to working together in harmony, as one people, for the greater good of all.”