Insecurity: Taraba govt. Order closure of the school's hostels

By Godwin Agia, Jalingo 

The Taraba State Government has directed the closure of all school hostels in the state, citing national security concerns.

The directive, issued by the Honourable Commissioner for Basic and Secondary Education, Dr Drugustina Godwin, applies to both public and private secondary schools in the state, effective immediately.

In a statement on Saturday in Jalingo, it was indicated that the move is aimed at ensuring the safety of students, following recent abductions of students in other states, including Kebbi and Niger States.

"Following the Insecurity Challenges in the Country. It has been observed that the boarding students, either in public or private secondary schools, are he target of the bandits, with reference to the recent abduction of students in Kebbi and Niger States.

"In view of the unhealthy situation in the Country, His Excellency, the governor of Taraba State, Dr Agbu Kefas, has directed the deboarding (i.e all Schools should operate as day schools for the moment) in both Private/Public Secondary Schools in the State with immediate effect.

"In the light of the above, I am directed to inform all Principals and Proprietors of Secondary Schools to deboard all students without further delay.

"This Letter is copied to: The Executive Secretary, Taraba State Post Primary

Schools Management Board, The Chairman of APSON and NAPPS for

Information and necessary action," the statement read.

Gov. Kefas urges NYSC members to embrace patriotism, service

 

 By Godwin Agia, Jalingo 

Taraba State Governor, Dr Agbu Kefas, has urged the NYSC corps members posted to serve in the state to embrace patriotism and service as they embark on their national service.

Dr Kefas made the call on Friday, during the swearing-in ceremony of the 2025 Batch 'C' Stream I orientation course at the NYSC permanent orientation camp in Sibre, Ardo-Kola Local Government Area of Taraba State.

Represented by the Secretary to the Government of the State (SGS), Chief Barrister Gibon Timothy Kattaps, Kefas said the National Youth Service Corps scheme has played a pivotal role in promoting national unity and integration, and has ensured the inculcation of discipline and patriotism in members of the corps.

He also urged the corps members to participate fully in all camp activities to enhance their readiness for the rest of the service year.

"We consider Youth Corps Members and the NYSC Scheme as one of the crucial development partners, endowed with energy, training, talent and skills needed to galvanise the state and indeed the Nation to the society of our dreams.

"The Orientation Course is packaged to equip you with the physical and mental alertness needed for quality and patriotic service to the fatherland.

"I am well briefed that Skill Acquisition and Entrepreneurship Development is part of your Camp training curriculum. While applauding the NYSC management for this innovation, I enjoin you to seize the opportunity to acquire economic skills which will complement your academic qualification and ultimately make you self-reliant and more marketable at the end of your service year," he said.

Speaking earlier, Taraba State Coordinator of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), Mr Ella Aji Williams, while welcoming the corps members, praised Governor Agbu Kefas for his unprecedented support to the NYSC family in the state.

He noted that the governor's interventions, cooperation, and consistent commitment have helped the NYSC achieve its goals in the state.

"As we gather to formally induct you into the National Youth Service Corps, it is also my honour, indeed my privilege to express our sincere and profound appreciation to the Executive Governor of Taraba State, Dr Agbu Kefas, for his unprecedented support to the NYSC family in Taraba State," he said.

Gov. Kefas present 650.63Bn, 2026 appropriation bill

 

By Godwin Agia, Jalingo 

Taraba State Governor, Dr Agbu Kefas. On Wednesday, the President presented the total of  650.63 billion naira 2026 budget to the State House of Assembly.

The governor said the 2026 budget was designed to fast-track the state's development and improve the welfare of its residents.

Tag, "2026 Budget of demonstration", the governor said his administration was committed to capital-dominant and fiscal policy, promised to change the state infrastructure, energy expansion, and social development across the state.

Kefas explained that ₦457.74 billion (70.6%) of the budget would go into capital projects, while ₦192.89 billion (29.64%) is earmarked for recurrent expenditure. “Seven out of every ten naira will be channelled to physical development,” he said.

The Governor highlighted that the budget would be funded through a mix of FAAC allocations, internally generated revenue, aids and grants, and capital development receipts, while also expanding digital revenue systems and new streams in agriculture, mining, property, business, and tourism.

The proposed budget prioritises:

Roads and transport, with 19.84%.,

Education and skill development have 15.98%, Healthcare: 6.19%.

Agriculture and food security: 4.83%.

Water and sanitation: 3.19%.

Security and emergency services: 2.96%.

Governor Kefas described energy as the backbone of development, pledged to invest in solar mini-grids, hybrid rural electrification, street lighting, and power for schools, hospitals, markets, and agro-processing centres.

"This is a budget of truth and impact, every Kobo must go to the roads that connect communities, the schools that save the future, the hospitals that save lives, water that flows, energy that powers businesses and youths who are empowered to be productive and moral," he said.

Also speaking, Speaker of the Taraba State House of Assembly, Hon John Kizito Bonzina, assured the governor of the speedy passage of the budget.

Taraba Govt to Pay Medical Students Salaries

 

By Godwin Agia, Jalingo 

The Taraba State Government has announced plans to pay salaries to medical students, rather than stipends, as part of its efforts to improve healthcare services in the state. 

The Head of Service, Dr Hamidu Ahmed Kara, made this known following the arrival of a team of United Kingdom-based healthcare experts in the state.

Dr Kara noted that students in 100 and 200 levels will receive salaries of grade level 5, while those in 300 to 500 levels will receive salaries of grade level 7, ranging from N100,000 to N130,000 respectively.

He stated that the state government is committed to producing high-quality healthcare professionals, including nurses who can compete globally. 

"We have agreed to operate on a zonal level, and plans are underway to extend support to medical students through the payment of monthly salaries," he said.

The delegation, led by Dr Chichi Menakaya, founder of Annomo Health, said their mission is to collaborate with the Taraba State Government to strengthen healthcare delivery and infrastructure across the state.

Dr Menakaya commended Governor Kefas’s leadership and commitment to improving healthcare access for residents. 

"The passion of Governor Agbu Kefas is driven by his mission to enhance the healthcare of the people. Because of his dedication, the people of Taraba are motivated to pursue better health outcomes since healthcare is the foundation for everything," she said.

Dr Menakaya explained that her team will embark on both medium and long-term intervention programmes to upgrade facilities and build the necessary manpower to sustain the governor’s vision.

Also speaking, the Executive Secretary, Health Services Management Board, Dr Garba Danjuma, thanked the governor for collaborating with ANNOMO Health Foundation, saying that the 5-year partnership would bring development to the state.

Taraba LGAs poll: Maihankali, Re-Elect as Kurmi Council chairman

 

By Godwin Agia, Jalingo 

Hon Moses Maihankali has won a second term as the chairman of Kurmi local government area, Taraba State.

Our Correspondent reports that the returning officer for Kurmi local government election, Mr. Dan Audu Galadima declared Moses Maihankali the winner of the Saturday election, citing his wide margin of 63, 3055 votes.

Speaking shortly after his victory, Maihankali expressed gratitude to the people of Kurmi for their support.

He noted that his first term in office was marked by several achievements, including the provision of free medical services and the construction of new market shops among others.

Maihankali also appreciated the governor, Dr Agbu Kefas, for his support and encouragement. "The governor has been a source of inspiration to me, and I am grateful for his unwavering support.

"I will consolidate on my past achievements and continue to work tirelessly for the benefit of the people of Kurmi.

"We renovated the secretariat, we are sponsoring some medical students in the various university and we are able to complete some abandoned projects," he said.

A lawmaker, Dr Tafarki Agbadu Eneme, member representing Kurmi in the state Assembly said that Maihankali's victory is seen as a testament to his commitment to the people of Kurmi and his ability to deliver on his promises!

Noting that maihankali's re-election is expected to usher in a new wave of development and progress in the local government area.

Also speaking, a renounce politician, Hon. Alexander David disclosed that maihankali's re-election is a clear indication of his popularity and acceptance among the people of Kurmi, and urged him to continue the good work for his people.

"The people of Kurmi are hoping that Maihankali's second term will be even more productive than his first, and what we are expecting from him is to continue to work towards the development of the area," he said.

FFA Harps on Respect, Protection of Religious Freedom in Nigeria

 

By Godwin Agia, Jalingo 

Concerned about the religious undertones of Nigeria’s security challenges, Faith and Freedom Africa (FFA) has renewed calls for respect and protection of every citizen’s right to freedom of religion, as enshrined in Section 38 of the Nigerian Constitution.

Speaking at a one-day colloquium held on Saturday at Blue Nile Suites, Jalingo, FFA Country Coordinator, Felix Samari emphasized the importance of recognizing and respecting the rights of all citizens, regardless of their faith or belief.

The event, themed Freedom of Religious Beliefs (FoRB), brought together religious leaders, activists, and community members to discuss religious tolerance and inclusion.

Samari noted that the FFA Town Hall Meeting is part of ongoing efforts to promote peace, religious tolerance, and the recognition of constitutional rights in communities across Nigeria.

"With Freedom of Religion or Belief (FoRB) advocacy, we are not only speaking for Christians and Muslims but also for practitioners of African traditional religions and even atheists," he said.

In his paper presentation, Barrister Daniel Saredau of the Taraba state university criticized the government’s practice of funding only Christian and Muslim pilgrims’ boards, describing it as “discriminatory and unhealthy for national unity,".

He argued that in section 38 guarantees every person the right to freedom of conscience, belief and worship, including the freedom to propagate one's faith.

"Section 42 forbids discrimination on the basis of religion, among others, in law or government action," he said.

Participants highlighted the need for government recognition and support for all faiths, including African Traditional Religion (ATR).

Participants at the event include, Chief Imam government house, Sadan Lau, HOD Religious Affairs Taraba State University, Rev. Dr Philip Benjamin, NCWS chairperson, Mrs. Mercy and Media practitioners all preached respect, tolerant and praised Faith Freedom Africa for organizing a town hall meeting to enlighten Taraba.

They thanked the organization's advocacy and urged for more inclusive and tolerant society where everyone can live and worship without fear or discrimination.

Nyameh Begins Consultation Ahead of 2027 Guber Race in Taraba

 

By Godwin Agia, Jalingo 

Professor Jerome Nyameh, governorship aspirant under the platform of People's Democratic Party PDP in 2023 has hinted that he has started consultations with critical stakeholders in Taraba State ahead of the 2027 general elections following calls from various sections of the society to join the race. 

Nyameh, who recently resigned from the PDP, gave the hint in Jalingo on Thursday while interacting with journalists, revealed that he started planning his 2027 governorship campaign immediately after his Supreme Court case, where he lost to the incumbent governor, Dr Agbu Kefas. 

Prof. Nyameh revealed that he has been working behind the scenes to ensure wider consultation before deciding to join the race and actualize his governorship ambition.

Nyameh noted that his resignation from the PDP has sent shockwaves through the party in Taraba State, with many of his supporters calling on him to contest for the governorship ticket under a different party.

He said his decision to leave the PDP is seen as a significant blow to the party in the State and commands a large followership across the state and his departure is expected to stir political realignments ahead of the 2027 general elections.

"The very day I left the Supreme Court, I started planning against 2027, I have decided to resign my membership of the PDP with immediate effect, and I will be making further announcements on my next move soon. 

"As a professor and a seasoned politician, I have been a thorn in the flesh of the current administration in Taraba State. My resignation from the PDP is seen as an opportunity for me to explore other options and pursue my governorship ambition.

"My governorship ambition is not new. As I had previously contested for the PDP ticket, I came second position during the primary election and have been nursing the ambition of contesting again in 2027.

"I have vowed to continue fighting for the people of Taraba State. My resignation from the PDP will not affect my commitment to public service.

"The decision to resign from the PDP is met with mixed reactions from my supporters. While some are calling on me to join the African Democratic Congress (ADC), others are urging me to remain in PDP and some were advising me to join a new party and contest under its platform," he said.