CONVOCATION: Nursing Is a Calling to Humanity, TSU HOD Tells Graduates

The Head of the Department of Nursing Sciences, Taraba State University, Jalingo, Dr Kilor Nfor, has charged newly qualified nurses and midwives to approach their profession with dedication, compassion and a strong sense of responsibility.

Dr Nfor gave the charge following the combined convocation ceremony of the Taraba State College of Nursing Sciences, Jalingo, where hundreds of graduates were formally admitted into the nursing and midwifery profession.

He described nursing as more than a means of livelihood, stressing that it is a calling centred on preserving human life and providing compassionate care to patients.

The university don urged the graduates to maintain professionalism and exercise caution in their dealings with patients, noting that the attitude of healthcare workers can have a significant impact on patients’ recovery and experience in health facilities.

Dr Nfor also emphasised the importance of teamwork, urging the new professionals to maintain cordial relationships with doctors, patients, relatives and other healthcare workers to ensure effective healthcare delivery.

He commended the graduates for their resilience and commitment to their studies, encouraging them to embrace continuous learning and uphold the ethical standards of the profession.

The former Provost of the Taraba State College of Nursing and Midwifery also commended Governor Agbu Kefas for investments in the education sector, particularly the free education policy, reduction in tuition fees and upgrading of infrastructure at the college.

He said the interventions would contribute significantly to human capital development and strengthen the institution’s capacity to produce qualified nurses and midwives for the state’s healthcare system.

Dr Nfor congratulated the graduates and urged them to uphold the reputation of their institution through professionalism, discipline, compassion and competence wherever they find themselves.

Source: Jalingo Times

MERCY JAMES CALLS ON WOMEN TO JOIN ACTIVE POLITICS, SEEKS GREATER FEMALE PARTICIPATION IN LEADERSHIP

By Apex Media Network  

The Special Assistant to the Governor of Taraba State on Forest Conservation and National Women Leader of the National Alliance for Peace, Hon. Mercy James, has called on women to take an active role in politics and leadership, stressing the importance of their participation in decision-making and community development.

Hon. Mercy James made the call at the 1st North-East Annual Women Convention and Award Ceremony, organised by the Organization of African Instituted Churches, OAIC, and held at the CAN Secretariat in Jalingo, Taraba State.

She commended the OAIC for bringing women from across the North-East together to discuss issues affecting women and promote greater participation in leadership and development.

Hon. Mercy James urged women to move beyond supporting political activities and become active participants in the political process by seeking leadership positions and contributing their voices to decisions that affect society.

She also appreciated the Taraba State Governor, Dr. Agbu Kefas, for giving women a significant place in his administration, saying the inclusion of women in government provides them with opportunities to contribute directly to governance and the development of the state.

She encouraged women to take advantage of available opportunities, support one another and remain united in their pursuit of leadership and meaningful participation in public affairs.

The Special Assistant further stressed the need for women to continue building one another and using their positions to positively impact their families, communities and the wider society.

At the ceremony, Hon. Mercy James was honoured with an award in recognition of her outstanding contributions and support to women and the community.

Receiving1 the award, she thanked the organisers for the recognition and said it would encourage her to do more in supporting women-focused initiatives and community development.

The convention brought together women and stakeholders from across the North-East, with discussions centred on women’s empowerment, leadership, political participation and their contribution to community development.

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.

TARABA CHARTS NEW FISCAL COURSE AS TIRS BEGINS QUARTERLY REVENUE REVIEW OF MDAs

By Apex Media Network 

The Taraba Internal Revenue Service, TIRS, has commenced a quarterly review of revenue performance by Ministries, Departments and Agencies, MDAs, as part of efforts to improve internally generated revenue and strengthen accountability in the state.

The maiden review was held on Wednesday at the Dr. Agbu Kefas Conference Hall, TIRS Headquarters, Jalingo, with heads of MDAs, government officials and other stakeholders in attendance.

Declaring the exercise open, the Commissioner for Finance, Budget and Economic Planning, Dr. Sarah Enoch Adi, represented by the Permanent Secretary, Mr. Douglas Kasaba, commended TIRS for introducing the review.

She said every MDA has a responsibility to contribute to the state’s revenue drive, adding that improved revenue collection will enable government to provide more infrastructure and essential services.

The Commissioner also stressed the need for transparency and accountability in the collection and management of public revenue.

In his welcome address, the Executive Chairman of TIRS, Brigadier General Jeremiah Aliyu Faransa, retired, said cooperation among government agencies would be critical to achieving the state’s revenue targets.

The review featured presentations on the revenue performance of participating MDAs during the first and second quarters of 2026.

Heads of the various MDAs presented their revenue figures, explained challenges affecting collection and responded to questions on their performance.

Discussions at the meeting focused on revenue collection, reporting, monitoring and ways of improving the remittance of funds due to government.

TIRS also restated its commitment to reducing revenue leakages through digital payment platforms, modern collection systems and improved data management.

The quarterly review is expected to provide government with regular information on the performance of its revenue-generating institutions and help identify areas requiring intervention.

It is also aimed at strengthening coordination between TIRS and MDAs as the state works to improve its revenue base and reduce reliance on federal allocations.

The exercise marks the beginning of a quarterly assessment of MDA revenue performance in Taraba State, with subsequent reviews expected to track progress and address emerging challenges.

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

Celebrating Maulud 🌙🕌

Across Jalingo, festivities are underway. Mayo Gwoi stands beautifully prepared to welcome the celebration.

On this blessed occasion, we extend warm wishes to all our Muslim brothers and sisters.  

May Maulud bring peace, unity, abundant blessings, and shared joy to every home.

Happy Maulud,  

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.

29 YEARS AFTER, CATS JALINGO RESTORES CONVOCATION TRADITION, KEFAS CHALLENGES GRADUANDS TO TURN KNOWLEDGE INTO PROSPERITY

The College of Agriculture, Science and Technology, Jalingo, has held its first convocation ceremony in 29 years, bringing back a major academic tradition that had been absent from the institution for nearly three decades.

The combined 17th to 45th Convocation Ceremony, held in Jalingo, brought together graduands from different academic sessions, government officials, traditional rulers, academics, families and other stakeholders to celebrate the completion of their studies.

Representing the Taraba State Governor, Dr. Agbu Kefas, the Speaker of the State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. John Kizito Bonzena, challenged the graduands to use the knowledge and skills acquired from the institution to turn Taraba’s abundant agricultural and natural resources into wealth and employment.

Governor Kefas said his administration remained committed to strengthening education and agriculture, while encouraging students and farmers to adopt modern agricultural methods and technologies.

He congratulated the graduands on their achievements and urged them to remain good ambassadors of the institution.

The Governor also called on the management of the College to strengthen training and research to ensure that graduates are equipped to address challenges confronting the agricultural sector.

The return of the convocation ceremony marks a significant moment in the history of the College, restoring an academic tradition that had been suspended for 29 years.

For the Rector of the College, Dr. Yakubu Ali Garjila, the ceremony was also an opportunity to acknowledge the support of the Taraba State Government.

Garjila expressed appreciation to Governor Kefas for interventions that contributed to the successful re-accreditation of programmes offered by the institution.

He, however, identified inadequate hostel facilities, offices and staff accommodation, electricity supply and poor road conditions as some of the challenges affecting the College.

The Rector appealed for continued support to address the challenges and provide a more conducive environment for teaching, learning and research.

The Chairman of the College Governing Council, Dr. Mohammed Shatta, represented by former Taraba State Commissioner for Youths and Sports, Pastor Gambo Ndafo, presented HND, ND and intermediate certificates to the graduands.

Speaking on behalf of the graduands, the Valedictorian, Donald Daniel, commended Governor Kefas for his interventions in the education sector and his support for the College.

He urged his fellow graduands to put their education to practical use and contribute meaningfully to the development of their communities.

The ceremony was attended by the Chairman of the Taraba State House of Assembly Committee on Education, Hon. Josiah Yaro Angye, and other lawmakers.

Also present were the Commissioner for Tertiary Institutions, Dr. Mike Dio Jen, represented by the Commissioner for Special Duties, Hon. Saviour Noku; members of the State Executive Council; the Deputy State Chairman of the All Progressives Congress, Hon. Pastor Stephen Orthaniel; heads of sister tertiary institutions; heads of security agencies; Chairpersons of Local Government Councils; traditional rulers, including the Lamdo Gashaka; permanent secretaries; special advisers; heads of boards and parastatals; academic and administrative staff; members of the press and families of the graduands.

The ceremony was not only a celebration of academic achievement but also a restoration of institutional tradition.

After 29 years without a convocation, the College of Agriculture, Science and Technology, Jalingo, has once again provided a platform for its graduates to be formally celebrated and presented to society.

The development comes at a time when Taraba State is placing renewed emphasis on agriculture, education, skills development and the use of its natural resources to drive economic growth.

With the return of the convocation tradition, stakeholders expressed optimism that the College will continue to strengthen its academic programmes, expand research and produce graduates capable of contributing to Taraba’s agricultural and economic development.

For the graduands, the ceremony marked the end of one journey and the beginning of another.

For the College, it marked the return of a tradition that had been missing for almost three decades.

After 29 years, the convocation bell has sounded again at CATS Jalingo — signalling a new chapter for the institution and its graduates.

Apex Media Network

KYEF Flag-Off Kicks Off in Jalingo as Taraba Unveils 25-Year Youth Agenda

JALINGO, Taraba State — The first phase of the Kefas Youth Enterprise Fund, KYEF, was officially flagged off on Wednesday at the Banquet Hall, TY Danjuma House, Jalingo.

The event also featured the unveiling of two major policy documents: the Taraba State Youth Development Roadmap 2026–2031 and the Long-Term Taraba Youth Agenda 2050.

Governor Kefas’ administration described KYEF as a direct investment in youth-led businesses, with the goal of boosting enterprise development, job creation, and financial independence across the state. Beneficiaries from the first phase were present to receive support under the scheme.

The newly launched Roadmap 2026–2031 lays out immediate priorities for skills acquisition, entrepreneurship, and employment. The Agenda 2050 sets a long-term vision to position Taraba youths as drivers of innovation and economic growth over the next 25 years.

Officials of the Taraba State Youth Development Agency said the dual launch marks “a significant step toward empowering Taraba youths and building a brighter future.”

The agency’s mandate, they noted, remains: _Empowering Youths, Transforming Futures._

The flag-off is expected to be followed by statewide sensitization and rollout to all 16 LGAs in the coming weeks.

PHOTO NEWS: DAY THREE — MORNING SESSION

Highlights from the morning session of Day Three of the CAN Taraba Ministers’ Conference in Jalingo.

📸 Apex Media Network