By Nahum Sule, Jalingo
Dr. Aminu Jauro Hassan, the chairman of Jalingo Local Government Area, praises Governor Kefas for his groundbreaking efforts in developing Taraba State. According to Hassan, these initiatives lay the groundwork for lasting transformation and unprecedented growth and development.
In an interview with our Correspondent in Jalingo, Hassan emphasizes that Governor Kefas has strategically focused on key sectors for development, ensuring that his foundation will withstand changes in administrations.
Highlighting some of these strategic sectors, Hassan points out the significant boosts in Education, Health, Security, Agriculture, Entrepreneurship, and youth and women empowerment.
Discussing the education sector, Hassan explains that Governor Kefas wasted no time in declaring a state of emergency and implementing free education for primary and secondary schools in the State. He further highlights the launch of an electronic capturing system for students and teachers, which not only ensures accurate data for planning but also paves the way for increased employment opportunities for teachers.
Hassan emphasizes the governor’s commitment to raising the standard of education by requiring graduate degrees for primary school teachers and master’s degrees for secondary school teachers. This move will contribute to a future where Taraba becomes a land of graduates, fostering a culture of ambition and transformation.
In a remarkable move, Governor Kefas has also slashed tuition fees at state-owned tertiary institutions by half. This decision stands in contrast to the tuition hikes in federal institutions, making higher education more accessible and contributing to lasting transformation in the state.
Turning to the health sector, Hassan notes that Governor Kefas has approved the construction of new specialist hospitals across the state and acquired Pentacycles ambulances to reach even the most remote areas. This commitment to healthcare ensures better service delivery, effective management, and improved supervision and monitoring.
Furthermore, the governor is upgrading the Primary Health sector and creating a conducive environment for teaching and learning at the state-owned School of Nursing. These efforts are key to lasting transformation and will benefit prospective nurses and midwives, many of whom will be absorbed into the State Health Management Board.
Addressing the issue of security, Hassan acknowledges that it has been a major concern for the nation. However, since Governor Kefas assumed office, the situation has significantly improved. Measures such as the establishment of an anti-kidnapping crack squad and the provision of patrol vehicles to security agencies demonstrate the governor’s commitment to maintaining safety and security in the state.
Governor Kefas has also taken decisive action to address crime within Jalingo metropolis by banning the use of motorcycles and implementing stricter controls on tricycles. These measures have effectively reduced incidents such as phone snatching and nighttime attacks.
In the agricultural sector, Governor Kefas has made significant strides by acquiring and distributing over eight hundred tractors, fertilizer, improved seedlings, and other farm inputs. These efforts have provided a major boost to agriculture, which will ultimately lead to a decrease in food prices and ensure food security in the state.
Hassan commends Governor Kefas for prioritizing youth and women empowerment and appointing the highest number of women and youth in his cabinet since the creation of the state. He urges the people of Taraba State to join hands with the governor to ensure that the dividends of democracy are enjoyed by all.
Governor Kefas’ transformative initiatives in education, health, security, agriculture, and empowerment are setting the stage for a prosperous and developed Taraba State.
