Taraba Assembly Clarifies Deputy Gov's Health Status

 

By Godwin Agia, Jalingo 

The Taraba State House of Assembly clarified on Thursday that Deputy Governor Alhaji Aminu Alkari is undergoing treatment and recuperating in an Abuja hospital. 

Chairman of the Assembly's Committee on Information, Hon. Nelson C. Len, stated that the Deputy Governor is expected to resume duty once he has fully recovered.

Len dismissed speculations that the Assembly was planning to declare the Deputy Governor incapacitated, saying that none of the three arms of government had considered replacing him. Instead, efforts are being made to ensure his recovery and return to duty.

"We call on the general public to disregard the speculations that the Assembly is preparing to declare the Deputy Governor incapacitated," Len said.

Meanwhile, the Mumuye Cultural Development Association (MCDA) has weighed in on the issue, stating that if the Deputy Governor's seat is vacant, the replacement should come from the Mumuye tribe. 

The association cited the tradition of replacing deputy governors or vacant political seats in Taraba State and noted that the Mumuye people overwhelmingly supported the current administration.

"We strongly and emphatically draw the attention of the Taraba State Government that in the event the seat of the ailing Deputy Governor is declared vacant the established tradition should be upheld," the MCDA said.

The association referenced a previous instance where a Deputy Governor was replaced by someone from the same tribe and local government area, suggesting that this precedent should be followed.

Governor Agbu Kefas empowers 300 youths on Agriculture to drive Taraba’s Economic Growth.

By Henry Agbu 

In a move that underscores his administration’s commitment to youth empowerment and food security, Governor Agbu Kefas of Taraba State has flagged off an agricultural training programme for 300 youths drawn across the 16 Local Government Areas of the state. 

The initiative, which forms part of the state’s broader agricultural transformation agenda, is being hailed as a timely intervention to combat unemployment, stimulate rural development, and reposition Taraba as a major food-producing hub in Nigeria.

The training programme, implemented in partnership with agricultural experts and institutions, aims to equip the beneficiaries with modern skills in crop production, livestock management, agribusiness, and climate-smart farming techniques.

 By harnessing the energy and creativity of young people, the state government is planting seeds of long-term prosperity in communities that have historically relied on subsistence farming.

Governor Kefas, while addressing the participants during the launch of the programme, emphasised the critical role of agriculture in diversifying the state’s economy. “We cannot rely on federal allocations forever. Taraba is blessed with vast arable land and a youthful population. By combining these assets, we can feed ourselves, create jobs, and even export,” he said.

The training also includes practical sessions and access to starter kits, inputs, and possible funding support, giving the young farmers a head start toward sustainability and profitability. 

Experts believe that if well implemented, this initiative could help reduce youth restiveness, curb rural-urban migration, and contribute to the state's GDP.

For many of the beneficiaries, the opportunity is life-changing. "Before now, I had no idea where my future was headed. But with this training, I feel hopeful and empowered to not only provide for myself but also employ others," said Janet Audu, one of the trainees from Bali LGA.

Agriculture analysts are optimistic about the multiplier effect this initiative will have. Beyond food production, it is expected to stimulate agro-processing, packaging, and marketing sectors, creating value chains that will benefit thousands of Tarabans.

Governor Kefas’ initiative aligns with his broader vision of “Moving Taraba Forward,” a development blueprint focused on inclusive governance, economic diversification, and youth development. 

This agricultural training scheme is not just a project—it is a policy shift that recognises young people as key stakeholders in building a self-reliant and prosperous Taraba.

The good part of the process is that the trainees were selected after applying to the ministry of Agriculture and Food Security who filled forms with requisite certificate of ND.HND.First Degree and others that are interested in developing his/her self in Agriculture through oral interview in some cases.

This is the first batch, the second and third batches are coming.

As the state watches these 300 young men and women sow new seeds of hope, one thing is clear: Taraba’s future is being cultivated—one farm at a time.

Taraba Poly Student Loses Both Hands After Electrocution While Hoisting PDP Flag.

By Godwin Agia, Jalingo

A 100-level student of Taraba State Polytechnic, Iorhee Saanmoyol Paul, has undergone a double amputation after surviving a severe electric shock while hoisting a flag for the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Jalingo, the state capital.

The tragic incident occurred on May 21, 2025, during preparations for the Taraba State International Investment Summit, held in honour of Vice President Kashim Shettima. Paul, a student of Epidemiology and Disease Control at the School of Basic and Applied Sciences, had joined a group of students flying party flags to welcome dignitaries to the event.

Eyewitness Mr. Peter Jeyol told our correspondent that Paul’s flag, which had an iron rod attached, accidentally came into contact with a live high-tension cable near the polytechnic gate along Roadblock–ATC Road. Paul was immediately electrocuted and rushed to Gilead Hospital, where he received emergency treatment.

Due to the extent of the injuries, Paul was later referred to the National Orthopaedic Hospital annexe at Taraba State Specialist Hospital, where doctors made the difficult decision to amputate both of his hands to save his life. The surgery was carried out on June 19, nearly a month after the accident.

Speaking from his hospital bed, Paul expressed gratitude for being alive but shared his emotional pain over the life-altering incident.

 “My joy today is because I’m alive,” he said. “But one thing I didn’t fulfil is my life plan. When I found myself in the hospital, I felt like, ‘Why am I alive?’ But the scripture says there is nothing you can give in exchange for your life. So I must thank God for His good work. Today, my mates are writing exams, but here I am. That’s God.”

The Taraba State Government has reportedly taken full responsibility for Paul’s medical bills. However, Paul is now appealing to the government and well-meaning Nigerians for further support, especially the provision of prosthetic hands and vocational training that will allow him to earn a living after recovery.

 “I plead with the government to support me with artificial hands and any skilled job that can help me earn something monthly after treatment,” he said.

Hon. Iliya Kefas, Coordinator of Operation Keep Taraba Clean and a PDP youth mobiliser, confirmed the incident and praised the government’s intervention. He also appealed for continued assistance to support Paul’s rehabilitation.

Paul’s family, while appreciative of the support so far, echoed the need for long-term care and empowerment to help him live a dignified life beyond the tragedy.

Taraba Govt To Establish Another State University

 

By Godwin Agia, Jalingo 

The Taraba State House of Assembly has Thursday held a public hearing on a bill seeking to establish the Taraba State University of Tropical Agriculture and Climate Action in Sardauna local government area of the State.

The bill, sponsored by lawmakers, Hon Abel Peter Diah, Hon Nelson C. Len, and Hon Abdull'Azzi Titong aims to promote agricultural innovation and tackle climate change through specialized academic programs has scale its second reading.

The public hearing, which held at the Taraba State House of Assembly in Jalingo, saw all parties involved unanimously supporting the establishment of the university. 

The proposed university seeks to harness the region's rich agricultural potential, promote sustainable development, and offer increased educational and economic opportunities for local residents.

Speaker of the House, Rt. Hon. John Bonzena assured the Assembly's commitment to supporting the bill, stating that it aligns with the state's development goals.

Hon. Abel Peter Diah who spoke on behalf of the sponsors expressed gratitude for the bipartisan support, emphasizing that the proposed university represents hope for the future of education, research, and climate resilience in Taraba.

Also speaking, Secretary to the State Government, Barrister Gebon Kataps hailed the legislative initiative as a historic breakthrough for the people of the area, stating that it will help address food security challenges and create jobs.

"The university will enhance access to higher education and research, especially for underserved highland communities on the Mambilla Plateau.

"The university is expected to stimulate the local economy and create jobs," he said.

Our Correspondent reports that the public hearing provided a platform for stakeholders to contribute to the bill's development where community leaders, residents, and other interested parties attended the hearing, all of whom expressed their support for the establishment of the university.

Governor Agbu Kefas says he prioritises the welfare of corps members in Taraba State

 

By Godwin Agia, Jalingo 

Taraba State Governor, Dr. Agbu Kefas, has emphasised the importance of safety, security and welfare for National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) members posted to the state. 

Kefas gave the assurance during the 2025 Batch A stream 2 orientation course at Sibere in Arodokola local government area of the State.

Represented by the Secretary to the Government of the State (SGS), Gibon Timothy Kattaps, Kefas, emphasised that his administration will prioritise the safety and well-being of corps members during their stay in Taraba.

On education, he said the State is committed to free education, underscoring the significance of quality education for the youth.

He called on corps members to contribute to the State's educational goals, recognising their vital roles in achieving these objectives.

According to him, "make yourselves available to contribute your quota and to add value to the growth and development of Taraba and the nation at large.

"The time to start is now in the orientation camp, you have been called from different states of the federation to fulfill the spirit and mandate of the act of establishing the NYSC, as you report and start your orientation, I urge you to consider yourself as citizens of Taraba, you will also serve as ambassador anywhere you are assigned for your primary assessment.

"I can assure you that Taraba is very safe, this administration has deployed enormous resources to ensure that anyone, any Nigerian or any foreigner living within the confines of this state is protected and anywhere you are posted, your security comes first," he said.

Earlier, the State Coordinator, Mr. Ella Aji Williams, used the medium to pledge the readiness of the NYSC scheme to play its invaluable roles in critical sectors like education, agriculture, technology, science, hospitality, leisure, and green energy in the sixteen Local Government Areas of the state. 

6 persons were killed and more than 200 houses destroyed by a rainstorm in the Garba Chede community of the Bali LGA

 

By Henry Agbu 

The storm, which struck earlier last week claimed six lives, injured over thirty people, and destroyed more than 200 houses, including schools, places of worship, and business premises.

In response to the disaster, a delegation from the North East Development Commission (NEDC) visited the community to assess the extent of the damage and determine possible areas of intervention.

 The team, led by Dr. Balutu Isa Mohammed, expressed deep sympathy with the victims and assured residents of the commission’s readiness to provide critical support and relief materials.

One affected resident, Nasiru Mohammed, recounted the scale of destruction, emphasising the urgent need for assistance. “Six people lost their lives, about 200 houses were destroyed, and nearly 30 people were injured,” he said, urging the government at all levels to intervene quickly, especially as both a church and a mosque were among the buildings affected.

During the visit, the delegation also paid a courtesy call on the Third Class Chief of Garba Chede, Kaigama Maigandi, to brief him on their mission and seek his royal blessings.

The member representing Bali 2 state Constituency, Hon. Veronica Alhassan, affirmed that the matter is already before Governor Agbu Kefas and assured constituents that steps would soon be taken to address the situation.

Zing LGA Chairman Organizes Football Tournament to Promote Youth Unity

 

From Henry Agbu 

    The Chairman of Zing Local Government Area, Hon. Davoro Titus, has organized a football competition at the LGA headquarters aimed at fostering unity and togetherness among the youth in the area.

     Speaking at the opening of the tournament, Hon. Davoro Titus commended Governor Agbu Kefas for providing an enabling environment that made the competition possible. He noted that the initiative is designed to unite the youth and harness their potential through sports.

"Football plays a vital role in shaping the minds of young people and directing their energy towards positive engagement," the chairman said.

     Also speaking at the event, the Senior Special Adviser to the Governor on Sports Development, Hon. Barak Bitrus Maikidi, described the competition as timely. He emphasized that engaging the youth through sports is a strategic way of curbing social vices and promoting peace.

"The timing of this competition is perfect. It will keep our youth engaged and focused," Hon. Barak stated.

     On his part, the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Sports Development, Bomwilliya Emmanuel, appreciated Governor Agbu Kefas for his unwavering commitment to youth and sports development. He recalled that the governor recently sponsored youth athletes to the National Sports Festival held in Ogun State, showcasing the state's dedication to nurturing young talents.

"Taraba is blessed with vibrant youth who can favorably compete at national levels," Bomwilliya said. He urged other local government areas to emulate Zing by organizing similar events that will promote unity and youth development across the state.

    The tournament is expected to run for several weeks and will feature football teams from various communities in Zing LGA.

Governance failure: The Root of Nigeria’s Farmer-Herder Crisis

 

By Thomas Samuel

      Last month, while presenting my paper titled "Reporting for Resolution: Climate Change, Resource Conflict, and Solution Journalism in Nigeria’s Farmer-Herder Crisis" at the NNPC Foundation Symposium on Energy and Sustainable Environmental Communication, organized by the Centre for Media and Communication Research at Pan-Atlantic University Lagos, I was unaware that back home farmer communities Munga Lalau and Munga Doso, Karim-Lamido Local Government Area of Taraba State, were under attack, resulting in over 40 lives lost.      

       The Taraba State governor condemned the violence and established a commission of inquiry to investigate its causes. Similarly, in April 2025, at least 56 people were killed in Benue State’s Logo and neighboring villages, with Governor Hycent Aliya alleging political orchestration by National Assembly members, though without naming them.
       These incidents underscore the persistent violence plaguing Nigeria’s farmer-herder crisis, with over 60,000 lives lost and 265,000 displaced since 2016. Beyond official condemnations and blame-shifting, the critical question remains: what concrete steps are being taken to achieve lasting peace?
       In my paper, I identified government inaction as a primary driver of the crisis, creating a fertile ground for retaliatory attacks to thrive. Amnesty International’s 2018 report corroborates this, documenting thousands of deaths and millions displaced due to the government’s reluctant disposition.
      The failure to address systemic issues, such as outdated land-use policies like the 1978 Land Use Act, exacerbates tensions by fostering ambiguous land tenure systems that favor elites while neglecting smallholder farmers and herders.  

       Additionally, climate change and population growth intensify resource competition, disrupting the harmonious coexistence that once characterized these communities. Rising temperatures, erratic rainfall, and land degradation have diminished grazing routes and arable land, pushing herders and farmers into conflict over dwindling resources.
      Drawing from my research, which combined qualitative interviews with farmers, herders, and stakeholders in Taraba State and a survey of 22 journalists covering climate and conflict in Northeast Nigeria, four key themes emerged: climate change and resource scarcity, governance failures, human impact, and media coverage.
      The findings underscore the need for a multifaceted approach to address the farmer-herder crisis, combining solution-oriented journalism, policy reform, climate adaptation, and community-led peacebuilding.
      It is important to note that the creation of the Ministry of Livestock Development by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in June 2025 aims to address herder-farmer conflicts and unlock economic potential in the livestock sector is timely. However, its success depends on clear implementation strategies and stakeholder engagement this because of orher unsuccessful policies like the anti open grazing law in Taraba and Benue states.

        The National Agricultural Resilience Framework (NARF) could complement this by promoting mutually beneficial relationships between farmers and herders. Additionally, adopting agroforestry, as seen in other regions like the Indian Himalayas, could enhance ecosystem services and provide alternative livelihoods, reducing resource competition.

        Journalists should also leverage platforms like the Nigeria Climate Change Forum (NCCF) 2025, which emphasized policy implementation and private sector engagement, to advocate for climate-smart solutions. Collaborating with NGOs and interfaith organizations, such as the National Inter-Religious Council (NIREC), which has mediated conflicts in Benue, can further amplify peacebuilding efforts.         Addressing the gender dimensions of the crisis, as highlighted by studies showing women’s vulnerability to violence, requires integrating gender-sensitive approaches into peacebuilding and reporting.
       While government responses, such as inquiries and troop deployments, are steps forward, they remain insufficient without systemic reforms. Solution journalism offers a transformative approach by highlighting grassroots initiatives, promoting dialogue, and holding policymakers accountable.
      The media, policymakers, and communities must collaborate to transform this crisis into an opportunity for coexistence and resilience.

Thomas Samuel is a News Editor at the Taraba State Broadcasting Service, TSBS Jalingo.

L-press project praises Taraba State’s livestock infrastructure

By Thomas Samuel 

The National Project Office of Livestock Productivity and Resilience Project, L-PRES has assessed key infrastructure in Taraba State.

The L-press Team led by the National project coordinator Sanusi Abubakar, together with officials of the World Bank, visited the Cold Chain Facility for Vaccine Storage, Disease Surveillance Laboratory and Artificial Insemination Center.

Other sites visited are the Jalingo UItra-modern Abattoir, Ardo Yahaya Global Venture Dairy Production Unit, Barrister Yazidu Livestock Farm and Shavoh Women Sheep and Goat Producer Group all in Jalingo.

Speaking shortly after the assessment tour, the L-press project coordinator, Sanusi Abubakar, said their visit is geared towards supporting those in the livestock business to improve productivity and commercialisation of livestock businesses.

He expressed satisfaction with the infrastructure on the ground and said they were moving to the next component of the project, which is funding support.

Sanusi Abubakar, who rated Taraba high among the many states where L-press is currently being implemented, said Taraba has earned the opportunity to have a livestock saving centre to be sited in Lau. 

The livestock saving centre He said, if completed, would open business opportunities for the host community and also increase the revenue generation of the state. 

Sanusi Abubakar commended Governor Agbu Kefas for being up to date with the payment of counterpart funding and appealed to Tarabans to support the government to sustain the tempo.

He said the World Bank has earmarked funds to be given to livestock farmers in the form of loans through the guidance of L-Press.

L-PRES is a six Year Project with a Development Objective to improve livestock productivity, resilience and commercialization of selected value chains and to strengthen the country’s capacity to respond to an eligible crisis or emergency.