KEFAS TAKES DELIVERY OF 188 FEDERAL HOUSING UNITS IN TARABA

By Apex Media Network 

Taraba State Governor, Dr. Agbu Kefas, has taken delivery of 188 completed housing units under the Muhammadu Buhari National Housing Programme.

The handover was performed by the Minister of Housing and Urban Development, Dr. Muttaqha Rabe Darma, during a ceremony in Taraba State.

The housing units are expected to provide accommodation for beneficiaries and support the welfare of personnel serving in the state, particularly those attached to newly established military formations.

Governor Agbu Kefas expressed appreciation to the Federal Government for the investment, describing the project as a significant addition to the state’s housing stock.

He called for more federal housing projects to be located across Taraba State, stressing the need for continued investment in accommodation and infrastructure to meet the needs of the growing population.

Taraba State was also recognised as the first state to respond to the Ministry’s call to take over completed housing units, demonstrating the state government’s commitment to ensuring that completed projects are put to use for the benefit of the people.

The Federal Government also announced a new Social Housing Initiative aimed at making affordable homes available to more Nigerians.

Governor Kefas reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to creating an enabling environment and improving the welfare of residents, while continuing to work with the Federal Government to attract projects that will support development across Taraba State.

Kefas Hosts Information Minister, Reaffirms Commitment to Federal Development Agenda

Taraba State Governor, Dr. Agbu Kefas, has reaffirmed the state’s commitment to supporting and aligning with the Federal Government’s development agenda aimed at transforming the economy and improving the living standards of Nigerians.

Governor Kefas stated this yesterday when he hosted the Honourable Minister of Information and National Orientation, Alhaji Mohammed Idris Malagi, at the TY Danjuma House in Jalingo.

The meeting focused on strengthening collaboration between the Federal and Taraba State Governments, particularly in the areas of economic development, security and citizen welfare.

Governor Kefas acknowledged the significant support received from the Federal Government, noting that the interventions have translated into tangible projects and programmes with direct benefits to the people of Taraba State.

On security, the governor expressed optimism that the proposed State Police structure would strengthen security coordination and enhance the capacity to protect lives and property across the state.

He stressed the importance of sustained cooperation between the two levels of government, saying effective policy coordination remains critical to achieving sustainable development and improving the welfare of citizens.

The meeting reaffirmed the shared commitment of the Federal and Taraba State Governments to closer collaboration in advancing development and delivering greater dividends of governance to the people.

Apex Media Network

PFN TARABA HOLDS COMBINED SERVICE, CALLS FOR UNITY AND SPIRITUAL RENEWAL

The Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria (PFN), Taraba State Chapter, has held its Combined Service at the Redeemed People’s Mission, Magami, Jalingo, bringing together Christian leaders, government officials, ministers, church members and other members of the public for a day of worship, prayer, fellowship and spiritual renewal.

The gathering provided an opportunity for members of the Pentecostal community across the state to come together in unity, strengthen their fellowship and collectively seek God’s guidance and blessings for the Church, government and people of Taraba State.

The service was graced by the presence of the Taraba State Governor, Dr. Agbu Kefas, and his wife, who joined the Christian community in worship and fellowship. Other government officials and dignitaries also attended the service, underscoring the importance of collaboration and peaceful engagement between the government and religious communities.

The atmosphere at the gathering was marked by vibrant worship, prayers and thanksgiving as participants expressed their faith and commitment to the spiritual and moral development of the state.

A major highlight of the service was the ministration by Rev. Timothy Ayodele, who delivered a message centred on faith, unity, righteousness and the responsibility of believers to contribute positively to their communities and society at large.

The service was coordinated under the leadership of the PFN Taraba State Chapter, led by Rev. Dr. Timothy King, whose administration continues to provide a platform for Pentecostal churches and Christian leaders across the state to work together in advancing the interests of the Church and promoting peaceful coexistence.

The Combined Service also served as a platform for Christian leaders and members to reflect on the role of the Church in promoting peace, unity, compassion and responsible citizenship.

Participants offered prayers for Taraba State, its leadership and residents, seeking divine wisdom, protection, prosperity and continued peace across the state.

The event further demonstrated the spirit of unity within the Pentecostal community, bringing together believers from different churches and denominations under one platform of worship and fellowship.

The PFN leadership expressed appreciation to all Christian leaders, government officials, ministers and members of the public who attended the service, while encouraging continued cooperation, mutual respect and collective commitment to the peace and development of Taraba State.

The successful gathering reaffirmed the importance of faith-based platforms in strengthening social cohesion, encouraging spiritual growth and fostering meaningful relationships among religious leaders, government and communities.

AFTER 30 YEARS, TARABA STATE POLYTECHNIC HOLDS MAIDEN CONVOCATION, GOV. KEFAS REAFFIRMS COMMITMENT TO EDUCATION

By Nformi Desmond

After three decades without a convocation ceremony, Taraba State Polytechnic, Jalingo, on Saturday made history by holding its maiden combined convocation, bringing together graduates from 1995 to 2025 in a landmark event that also reaffirmed the Taraba State Government's commitment to revitalising the education sector.

The historic ceremony attracted government officials, traditional rulers, academic leaders, alumni, parents and well-wishers, with the Governor of Taraba State, Dr. Agbu Kefas, attending as the Special Guest of Honour.

Addressing the gathering, Governor Kefas congratulated the graduating students and commended their parents, guardians, lecturers and other stakeholders for their sacrifices and commitment to the academic success of the graduates.

He described education as the foundation of sustainable development and human capital growth, stressing that it should not be viewed merely as a means of obtaining certificates but as a tool for developing critical thinking, innovation, creativity and problem-solving skills capable of transforming society.

The governor noted that every responsible government has an obligation not only to preserve educational institutions but also to reform and strengthen them by addressing existing challenges, restoring public confidence and repositioning them to meet contemporary educational standards.

According to him, upon assuming office, his administration made a deliberate commitment to rebuilding institutions, expanding access to quality education and ensuring that every Taraban, regardless of social or economic background, has the opportunity to pursue higher education.

Governor Kefas disclosed that his administration provided the support required for the accreditation of academic programmes at the Polytechnic, leading to the successful accreditation of several courses and enhancing the institution's academic standing.

The Commissioner for Tertiary Education, Dr. Mike Dio Jen, described the maiden convocation as a defining moment in the history of the institution. He attributed the achievement to Governor Kefas's declaration of a state of emergency in the education sector shortly after assuming office, noting that the policy had brought renewed focus and transformation to tertiary education in Taraba State.

In his address, the Rector of Taraba State Polytechnic, Dr. Amos Danlami Agbu, appreciated the state government for its unwavering support for education, institutional development and human capital advancement.

He said the interventions of the present administration had strengthened the institution's academic capacity and infrastructure, while urging the graduating students to make productive use of the knowledge and skills acquired during their studies in contributing to the development of their communities, the state and the nation.

Speaking on behalf of the graduating students, Emefo Kene commended Governor Kefas for reducing tuition fees in state-owned tertiary institutions, describing the policy as one of the lowest tuition regimes in the country. He said the initiative had made higher education more affordable and accessible to many students across the state.

The ceremony also featured goodwill messages from eminent personalities, including former Governor of Taraba State, Rev. Jolly Tavoro Nyame, while Governor Kefas commissioned a newly completed office complex within the Polytechnic.

For thousands of graduates who had waited years—some for decades—to be formally celebrated, the convocation was more than a ceremonial event. It marked the end of a 30-year wait, celebrated the resilience of generations of graduates, and opened a new chapter in the history of Taraba State Polytechnic as it continues its drive towards academic excellence and institutional growth.

HAPPENING NOW: Governor Agbu Kefas Graces Historic Taraba State Polytechnic Combined Convocation

His Excellency, Dr. Agbu Kefas, Executive Governor of Taraba State and Special Guest of Honour, is currently attending the first-ever Combined Convocation Ceremony of Taraba State Polytechnic, Suntai, at the Jalingo Campus.

The historic ceremony is celebrating graduates from 1995 to 2025, bringing together thousands of alumni, dignitaries, academic leaders, traditional rulers, students, and families in a landmark event that marks a new chapter in the institution's history.

Governor Kefas' presence underscores the Taraba State Government's commitment to advancing education, innovation, and human capital development across the state.

Stay connected for more live updates, speeches, and highlights from this memorable occasion.

Apex Media Network

NORTH EAST TENNIS CHAMPIONSHIP: ADAMAWA'S YAMAN PHILIP WINS GIRLS U-17 TITLE

By Nformi Desmond 

Yaman Philip of Adamawa State has won the Girls Under-17 title at the ongoing Dr. Agbu Kefas North East Tennis Championship after defeating Charity Ubandoma of Taraba State 6-1, 3-6, 10-8 in an exciting final at the Tennis Court of the Jolly Nyame Stadium, Jalingo.

Yaman dominated the opening set 6-1, but Charity responded strongly to take the second set 6-3 and force the match into a deciding super tie-break. Yaman eventually won the tie-break 10-8 to secure the championship.

With the victory, Yaman Philip finished as Champion, Charity Ubandoma emerged Runner-up, while Sophia Emeka of Yobe State claimed the Second Runner-up position.

The final attracted several dignitaries, including the Secretary to the Government of Taraba State and North-East Zonal Representative of the Nigeria Tennis Federation, High Chief Barr. Gebon Timothy Kataps Ngwii, who is the sponsor of the championship; the Vice President of the Nigeria Tennis Federation, Alhaji Yusuf Datti; the Secretary of the Nigeria Tennis Federation, Mr. Aliyu Makpa; the Central Zone Representative of the Nigeria Tennis Federation, Mr. Victor Hembah; the President of Jalingo Tennis Club, Brig. Gen. Jeremiah A. Faransa (Rtd); the Chairman of the Taraba State Sports Development Commission, Coach Bulus Husseini; and other government officials and sports administrators.

The match drew applause from spectators, coaches and officials, who commended both players for their determination and sportsmanship throughout the contest.

With the Girls Under-17 event concluded, attention now shifts to the Boys Under-14 and Boys Under-17 finals, which will be played on Thursday as the championship reaches its climax.

Tennis Enthusiast Bomwilliya Hails Chief Kataps for Strengthening Grassroots Sports Development

By Nformi Desmond Tumi

The Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Sports, Hon. Bomwilliya Emmanuel, has commended the Secretary to the Government of Taraba State, High Chief Barr. Gebon Timothy Kataps Ngwii, for his unwavering commitment to grassroots sports development, describing the ongoing Dr. Agbu Kefas North-East Tennis Championship as a timely investment in the future of young athletes.

A passionate tennis enthusiast, Hon. Bomwilliya said the championship goes beyond competition, providing a platform for discovering, nurturing, and inspiring young talents from across the North-East.

He noted that Chief Kataps' decision to sponsor the tournament demonstrates visionary leadership and a genuine commitment to empowering young people through sports.

Hon. Bomwilliya also commended the leadership of the Taraba State Sports Development Commission for their dedication to promoting sporting activities across the state, saying their collective efforts are laying a solid foundation for the growth of tennis and other sports.

According to him, Governor Dr. Agbu Kefas remains committed to creating opportunities for young people to excel, adding that sports have become an important tool for youth empowerment, discipline, and social development.

He stressed that greater attention will continue to be given to young athletes through proper mentorship, structured training programmes, and sustained grassroots competitions capable of producing future champions.

Hon. Bomwilliya expressed confidence that initiatives such as the Dr. Agbu Kefas North-East Tennis Championship would encourage more young people to embrace tennis while positioning Taraba State as a hub for sports excellence.

He urged participating athletes to remain disciplined, focused, and committed throughout the championship, reminding them that today's tournament could become the first step towards representing Taraba State and Nigeria on bigger stages.