Gov. Kefas Deepens Leadership Training for Taraba Officials at Jaji

By Apex Media Network 

The second batch of Taraba State Government officials sponsored by Governor Agbu Kefas has commenced a one-week Leadership and Peace Management Course at the Martin Luther Agwai International Leadership and Peacekeeping Centre, Jaji, Kaduna State.

The training brings together a broad range of participants, including commissioners, judges of the Federal and High Courts, religious leaders, senior government officials, security personnel, political party leaders, and representatives of youth and women organisations.

The programme is part of Governor Kefas’ continued investment in human capital development and institutional strengthening, with emphasis on effective leadership, good governance, conflict management, peacebuilding and security.

The diversity of participants underscores the administration’s belief that sustainable peace and development in Taraba require collective responsibility and cooperation among government institutions, traditional and religious leaders, security agencies, political actors and citizens.

The commencement of Batch B further demonstrates the Governor’s commitment to equipping key stakeholders with the knowledge and practical skills required to manage conflicts, strengthen institutions and promote peaceful coexistence.

The initiative is expected to contribute to more effective leadership and governance while reinforcing efforts to build a more peaceful, united and prosperous Taraba State.

KEFAS DIRECTS IMMEDIATE COMMENCEMENT OF MAYO-RANEWO ROAD PROJECT

Apex Media

The construction of the Mayo-Ranewo road in Ardo-Kola Local Government in Taraba State is set to commence immediately following a directive by Governor Agbu Kefas to the contractor handling the project.

The directive was disclosed after the Member representing Ardo-Kola State Constituency, Hon. Happy Joshua Shonruba, met with the project contractor, Mr. Pam, to follow up on the implementation of the project.

The project manager confirmed that the contractor had received clear instructions from Governor Kefas to commence work immediately and complete the road before December 2026.

The road project is expected to improve transportation, facilitate the movement of people and farm produce, and open up Mayo-Ranewo to increased economic and commercial activities.

In addition, plans are underway for the construction of a modern fish market in Mayo-Ranewo to support fishermen and fish traders, create employment and boost commercial activities in the community.

The development plans also include the provision of fishing boats and other necessary support for local fishermen to improve productivity along the river.

Hon. Happy Joshua Shonruba has continued to advocate for development projects in the constituency, with the Mayo-Ranewo road regarded as a major intervention that could enhance connectivity and unlock the economic potential of the community.

The development is expected to mark a significant step forward for Mayo-Ranewo and its surrounding communities.

TARABA AT 35: CHRISTIAN YOUTH MOVEMENT BACKS KEFAS FOR SECOND TERM

By Apex Media Network 

The Taraba Concern Christian Youth Movement has celebrated the 35th anniversary of the creation of Taraba State, calling for unity, peace and greater inclusion of young people in the development of the state.

The celebration, held at the Pastoral Centre Mini Hall in Jalingo, brought together Christian youths, religious leaders and other stakeholders to thank God for the peace and unity in Taraba State and reflect on the state's journey over the past 35 years.

In his welcome address, the Convener of the Taraba Concern Christian Youth Movement, Deacon John Bitrus Elisha, said the movement was established out of the desire to bring young people, particularly Christian youths resident in Jalingo, together and provide a platform for them to contribute meaningfully to the development of the state.

Deacon John said young people have remained patriotic and supportive of government since the return to democratic rule in 1999, but observed that youths sometimes feel left out when it comes to accessing government programmes and opportunities.

He said the decision to combine the group's Annual General Meeting with the celebration of Taraba at 35 was deliberate, describing the gathering as an opportunity for young people to appreciate God for preserving the unity and peace of the state.

According to him, despite security challenges in parts of the country, Taraba has continued to enjoy relative peace, which he described as a reason for thanksgiving.

Also speaking at the event, Ambassador Philip Micah Dopa urged Tarabans to rise above ethnic, religious and denominational differences and work together for the peace and development of the state.

Ambassador Dopa described Taraba as a highly diverse state, stressing that the state's diversity should be a source of strength rather than division.

He called on the people to continue praying for Taraba and its leaders, while urging young people to take their civic responsibilities seriously.

The Ambassador particularly cautioned youths against political violence and being used as political thugs, urging them to reject violence and use their Permanent Voter Cards to freely choose their preferred leaders during elections.

He also prayed for peaceful and credible elections, continued development in Taraba and leaders who would remain accountable to the people and to God.

Meanwhile, Account Emmanuel D.J. Wayas CNI was represented at the celebration by a team led by Comr. Bilatus Gimba.

In his remarks, Comr. Gimba stressed the need for Tarabans to rally round the administration of Governor Agbu Kefas, saying collective support and unity are necessary for the continued development of the state.

The celebration featured prayers for Taraba State, messages on peace and unity, and reflections on the role of young people in shaping the future of the state.

The event climaxed with the Taraba Concern Christian Youth Movement endorsing Governor Agbu Kefas for a second term in office.

The group said the endorsement was based on its assessment of the administration and its desire to support the continuity of programmes and policies it considers beneficial to the people of Taraba State.

L-PRES NATIONAL COORDINATOR INSPECTS LIVESTOCK PROJECTS IN TARABA

The National Project Coordinator of the Livestock Productivity and Resilience Support Project, L-PRES, Dr. Sanusi Abubakar, has inspected major livestock infrastructure in Taraba State as part of efforts to assess the progress of ongoing projects ahead of their commissioning.

Dr. Sanusi, accompanied by the National Husbandry Specialist, Dr. Amaeze Gabriel Ugwu, and an ABIS Group consultant, inspected the Livestock Service Centre in Sunkani, the Jalingo Ultra-Modern Abattoir and the ongoing Model Veterinary Hospital in Jalingo.

The team was received by the Taraba State L-PRES Project Coordinator, Mr. Hananiah G. Albert, and members of the Project Implementation Unit.

At the Livestock Service Centre in Sunkani, the delegation inspected the facilities under the guidance of the Director of Rockstar Construction Company Limited, Mr. Godson Aluka.

The National Coordinator later paid a courtesy visit to the Commissioner for Agriculture and Food Security, Professor Nicholas Oliver Namessan, before proceeding with the commissioner to the Jalingo Ultra-Modern Abattoir.

The abattoir was formally handed over to the ABIS Group for remodelling, mechanisation and automation.

The delegation also inspected the ongoing construction of the Model Veterinary Hospital, which is part of the state's efforts to strengthen animal health services.

Speaking with journalists after the inspection, Dr. Sanusi Abubakar said the visit was to assess the progress of the Livestock Service Centre and witness the commencement of work on the abattoir.

He said the contract for the remodelling had been signed and the contractor was already on ground to mobilise to site.

Dr. Sanusi added that the inspection was also part of preparations for the planned visit of the Minister of Livestock later in the year, when several L-PRES projects in Taraba are expected to be commissioned.

He commended the Taraba State Project Coordinator and his team for their performance, describing Taraba as one of the better-performing states under the L-PRES programme.

The National Coordinator also acknowledged the support of the Taraba State Government, saying political commitment was critical to the development and modernisation of livestock infrastructure.

He noted that only five states—Taraba, Oyo, Niger, Kogi and Yobe—have Livestock Service Centres under the programme.

The Commissioner for Agriculture and Food Security, Professor Nicholas Namessan, expressed satisfaction with the planned transformation of the Jalingo abattoir into a fully mechanised and automated facility.

Professor Namessan thanked the Federal Government and the World Bank for including Taraba among the seven states benefiting from the initiative to reactivate and modernise seven abattoirs.

The Taraba State L-PRES Project Coordinator, Mr. Hananiah G. Albert, commended Governor Agbu Kefas for providing an enabling environment for the implementation of L-PRES projects in the state.

He identified the Livestock Service Centre, Jalingo abattoir and the animal health hub, comprising the cold chain, disease surveillance laboratory, artificial insemination centre and Model Veterinary Hospital, as key components of Taraba's livestock development programme.

Albert appealed to host communities to cooperate with L-PRES and support the sustainability of the projects by avoiding disputes and compensation-related challenges.

The inspection ended with the formal handover of the Jalingo Ultra-Modern Abattoir to the ABIS Group for remodelling, mechanisation and automation.

The event was attended by government officials, members of the L-PRES Project Implementation Unit and other stakeholders.

Taraba Welcomes Home Music Producer De Yasso as Commissioner Peter George Celebrates Global Impact

By Apex Media Network

Taraba State has welcomed home renowned music producer and philanthropist De Yasso, with the Commissioner for Commerce, Trade and Industry, Hon. Peter George, celebrating his achievements and growing influence in the Nigerian and international music industry.

Hon. Peter George described De Yasso, a Taraba-born creative, as an inspiring example of how talent, creativity and determination can translate into success and global recognition.

De Yasso has built an impressive production portfolio, with credits involving artistes including Chikè, Kizz Daniel, Flavour, Yemi Alade, Teni, Oxlade, Fave, NasBoi, Rudeboy, Patoranking and Chella, among others.

The Commissioner said De Yasso’s journey from Taraba to the wider Nigerian and international music scene reflects the growing potential of young people from the state to make an impact beyond their immediate environment.

Beyond his music career, Hon. Peter George highlighted De Yasso’s philanthropic efforts and commitment to supporting and uplifting others, describing his story as one worthy of celebration.

He expressed appreciation to Governor Agbu Kefas for supporting initiatives and opportunities that encourage young Tarabans to develop their talents and pursue their ambitions.

The Commissioner also urged young people across the state to remain committed to their dreams, while encouraging Tarabans to celebrate and support those making positive contributions through their talents.

Welcoming De Yasso back to Jalingo, Hon. Peter George said his homecoming was an opportunity for Tarabans to celebrate one of their own whose creative journey continues to attract recognition beyond the state.

“Jalingo welcomes you, Taraba celebrates you, and your people proudly salute your extraordinary journey.”

Taraba Government Refutes Report of Stranded Contingent at Jaji Training

By Apex Media Network

The Taraba State Government has dismissed reports that its contingent participating in an ongoing capacity-building training at the Nigerian Armed Forces Resource Centre in Jaji, Kaduna State, has been stranded over the alleged non-payment of allowances.

The government described the report as false and misleading, saying participants from the state are safe, comfortable and adequately catered for throughout the training.

In a statement, the Special Adviser on Political Matters and Special Duties to the Governor, Professor Josiah Sabo Kente, said the welfare of the Taraba contingent and other necessary arrangements had been adequately provided for.

Professor Kente challenged the authors of the report to provide evidence to support the claim that participants had been abandoned or left stranded.

He accused those behind the report of attempting to create unnecessary anxiety and discredit the administration of Governor Agbu Kefas.

The Special Adviser said the state government remains committed to the welfare, capacity development and professional advancement of Taraba citizens and public servants.

He urged members of the public to disregard what he described as politically motivated misinformation and rely on verified information.

The statement was signed by Professor Josiah Sabo Kente, Special Adviser on Political Matters and Special Duties to the Governor of Taraba State.

TARABA GOVERNMENT, GREENLAND UNIVERSITY EXPLORE PARTNERSHIP ON EDUCATION, DIGITAL DEVELOPMENT

By Nformi Desmond

Source: Heernee Mil

The Management of Greenland University, Jalingo, has paid a courtesy visit to the Secretary to the Government of Taraba State, Chief Gebon Timothy Kataps, as part of efforts to strengthen strategic partnerships with key stakeholders and institutions across the state.

The meeting focused on exploring areas of collaboration between the state government and the university, particularly in education, technology and human capital development.

Speaking during the engagement, the Secretary to the Government expressed the state government's willingness to support the university, especially in the area of digital infrastructure, through the Office of the Commissioner for Digital Economy and Innovation.

The proposed support is expected to strengthen the university's digital capacity and enhance its efforts to provide quality, technology-driven education to students.

Chief Kataps also reaffirmed the commitment of the administration of Governor Agbu Kefas to the development of education and human capital in Taraba State, describing these areas as essential to the state's long-term development.

The engagement highlights the importance of collaboration between government and educational institutions in expanding opportunities, promoting innovation and equipping young people with the knowledge and skills needed to contribute meaningfully to society.

The visit is expected to further strengthen the relationship between Greenland University and the Taraba State Government as both sides explore practical areas of partnership for the advancement of education and digital development in the state.

GOV. KEFAS APPROVES PAYMENT OF FIVE MONTHS' LOCAL GOVERNMENT SALARY ARREARS, FIRST TRANCHE DUE AUGUST 4

By Apex Media Network

Governor Agbu Kefas has approved the payment of five months' outstanding salary arrears owed to local government workers in Taraba State, bringing relief to thousands of employees and their families across the 16 local government areas.

The approval covers salary arrears inherited from previous administrations. According to details released by the state government, two months of the outstanding salaries date back to 2014 during the administration of former Acting Governor, Sen. Sani Danladi, while three months were inherited from the administration of former Governor Darius Dickson Ishaku.

The government said payment of the arrears will commence in structured instalments, with the first tranche scheduled to be credited to beneficiaries' accounts from Tuesday, August 4, 2026.

The decision is expected to ease the financial burden on local government workers, many of whom have waited years for the outstanding salaries.

Local government employees provide essential services at the grassroots, and the payment is expected to improve the welfare of workers while injecting funds into local economies across the state.

The development has drawn positive reactions from workers and residents, who described the approval as a significant step towards addressing long-standing financial obligations owed to local government employees.

Many observers said the payment reflects the administration's commitment to clearing inherited liabilities and improving the welfare of public servants.

The payment of the salary arrears is expected to provide relief for thousands of families who depend on local government wages as their primary source of income, while reinforcing confidence in the state's efforts to address outstanding financial commitments.

Emmanuel Bello