Governor Dr Agbu Kefas has highlighted major achievements in education, healthcare, infrastructure, youth empowerment, and economic reforms as his administration marks three years in office in Taraba State.
Delivering a statewide anniversary address on Friday in Jalingo, the governor said his government inherited serious challenges across critical sectors in 2023 but chose the path of “responsibility, resilience, and action” rather than blame.
Education
Kefas stated that one of his administration’s earliest decisions was the declaration of a state of emergency in education. This led to the expansion of free and compulsory basic education, improved learning environments, and enhanced support for teachers and institutions across the state.
Efforts are also ongoing to reposition tertiary institutions, particularly Taraba State University, through infrastructural interventions, policy reforms, and dialogue aimed at restoring academic stability.
Healthcare
The governor said his administration had strengthened primary healthcare systems and embarked on major projects, including:
· Renovation of the State Specialist Hospital in Jalingo
· Remodelling of General Hospitals in Bali and Warwar
· Upgrading of the First Referral Hospital in Donga to a General Hospital
· Procurement of a CT scan machine
· Construction works at the College of Health Technology, Takum
Infrastructure
Kefas listed several ongoing road projects across the state, including the Mararaba–Biassa Abong Road, Yerima–Gassol Road, Pamanga–Dakka Road, Zing–Yakoko–Lamma Road, Takum–Lissam Road, Wukari–Kente–Chinkai Road, and township roads in Jalingo and Wukari.
He further revealed that the proposed Ibi Bridge across the River Benue is receiving serious attention from the Federal Government, while feasibility studies are ongoing for bridge projects along the Chinkai and Karim Lamido corridors.
Transport, Markets, and Agriculture
The administration is pursuing transport reforms through the remodelling of motor parks, development of trailer parks, and construction of standard markets across all 16 local government areas.
Kefas noted that the government continues to support agriculture and livestock development to boost food security, reduce farmer-herder conflicts, and create economic opportunities for citizens.
Energy and Environment
In the energy sector, the state is implementing solar power, mini-grid, and rural electrification projects in line with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
Kefas also highlighted reforms in environmental protection, mining regulation, digital governance, and civil service welfare. The establishment of the Taraba Geographic Information Service (TAGIS) is improving land administration and transparency.
Youth Empowerment
The governor said the administration had established the Youth Development Agency and the Sports Commission as separate entities to improve coordination and youth-focused programmes.
According to him, 296 youths have already registered under the state empowerment scheme, and the government has approved the release of N500 million for starter packs, with distribution expected to begin in June 2026.
Grassroots Development
Kefas announced plans to create 14 Special Development Areas from 2027 onwards, aimed at deepening grassroots governance, improving security coordination, and accelerating development in underserved communities.
Acknowledgements
The governor thanked traditional rulers, religious leaders, security agencies, civil servants, development partners, and citizens for their support over the past three years.
“Three years ago, we promised commitment, service, and progress. Today, while much still remains to be done, we can confidently say that Taraba State is moving forward,” Kefas stated.
