Taraba Health Stakeholders Push for Improved Budget Implementation to Strengthen Healthcare Delivery

 

by Thomas Samuel 

Stakeholders in Taraba State's health sector have been urged to improve the implementation of budget indicators to enhance healthcare delivery and achieve better health outcomes across the state.

The call was made by the State Commissioner for Health, Dr. Bordiya Buma, during the opening of a two-day Joint Annual Review Meeting held at Camp View, Mile Six, Jalingo.

Dr. Buma said the review meeting, now in its second edition after its maiden event last year, provides an opportunity for stakeholders to assess progress, identify gaps, and develop strategies to improve areas where performance fell short.

He noted that regular performance reviews are essential to strengthening the state's health system and ensuring that government investments translate into better healthcare services for residents.

In his welcome address, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Health, Harmony Churfo, described the gathering as a significant step towards advancing reforms in the health sector. He urged participants to actively contribute to discussions that would improve health service delivery in Taraba State.

Representatives of the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, the World Health Organization (WHO), and Management Sciences for Health (MSH), including Dr. Adedeji Adesiye, Martins Jirgi, and Othniel Kighir, respectively, highlighted the importance of the Joint Annual Review as a strategic platform for evaluating progress and strengthening the health sector.

Also speaking, the Executive Secretary of the Taraba State Primary Health Care Development Agency, Tukura Nuhu, commended the commitment of the current administration to transforming healthcare in the state.

He identified the Nigeria Health Sector Renewal Investment Initiative and the Joint Annual Review process as major reforms introduced under the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to improve the nation's healthcare system.

Presenting an overview of the Nigeria Health Sector Renewal Investment Initiative, Reuben Wunuji explained that the reform prioritises community-based healthcare services. He said the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare introduced the National Health Fellows Programme to promote accountability, strengthen community engagement, and increase awareness at the grassroots.

According to him, the initiative also focuses on expanding the health workforce, improving service delivery, and accelerating progress towards universal health coverage.

Global Methodist Church Provides N30 Million Relief Support to Crisis Victims in Taraba

 

By Amos Joshua Karim

The Global Methodist Church in Nigeria (GMCN), through its Kingdom Advancement and Disaster Response Commission, has provided relief materials valued at approximately N30 million to victims of conflict and displacement in parts of Taraba State.

The humanitarian intervention was led by the West Africa Coordinator of the commission, Rev. Absolom Nuhu Kodei, as part of the church's efforts to support vulnerable communities affected by insecurity and displacement in the Northeast and Central Nigeria Annual Conferences.

During the outreach, the commission visited Karimaundi, the headquarters of the Northeast Annual Conference, and Mutum Daya, one of the largest displacement camps within the Central Conference area. Relief materials were distributed to displaced families and other vulnerable persons affected by the crisis.

Items distributed included rice, maize, cassava, cooking oil, mats, buckets, and other essential household supplies. According to church officials, the intervention was designed to ease the hardship faced by families who have been forced to leave their homes due to conflict and insecurity.

Speaking during the distribution exercise, Rev. Absolom Nuhu Kodei stated that the initiative reflects the church's commitment to supporting people in times of need, regardless of their background, tribe, or denomination.

He explained that the Kingdom Advancement and Disaster Response Commission was established to provide hope and practical assistance to individuals and communities facing difficult circumstances.

"The church believes in demonstrating compassion through action by supporting those affected by hardship and displacement," he said.

Community leaders and stakeholders who accompanied the team commended the initiative and described it as a timely intervention for many families struggling to rebuild their lives.

Beneficiaries expressed appreciation for the support, noting that the relief materials would help cushion the effects of the current economic challenges and provide temporary relief to affected households.

The outreach highlights the growing role of faith-based ororganisationsn responding to humanitarian crises across Nigeria. Through interventions such as this, religious institutions continue to complement the efforts of government agencies and humanitarian ororganisationsn providing assistance to vulnerable populations.

As communities continue to recover from the effects of conflict and displacement, stakeholders have ememphasisedhe need for sustained support, peacebuilding efforts, and collaboration among government, civil society, and faith-based ororganisationso address the challenges facing affected populations.

This version is more suitable for a blog because it focuses on verifiable facts, avoids excessive praise, and adopts a professional news-feature style.

Taraba Reactivates Health Accountability Committee to Tackle Maternal and Child Mortality

 

By Thomas Samuel 

The Taraba State Ministry of Health, in collaboration with West and Central Africa Health Options Limited/GTE (WCA Health), has reactivated the State Accountability Mechanism for Maternal, Newborn and Child Health (TaSAM) to strengthen transparency and improve health outcomes across the state.

The reactivation meeting, held on Friday, July 17, 2026, at Sisfen Kitchen Conference Hall in Jalingo, brought together representatives from government ministries and agencies, civil society organisations, and the media.

Speaking at the event, the Commissioner for Health, Dr Bordiya Buma, stated that the accountability mechanism was established in 2016 but had become inactive due to various challenges. He explained that reactivating the committee is necessary to promote accountability and transparency in the health sector and accelerate efforts to reduce maternal and child deaths in Taraba State.

According to him, the committee will monitor health programmes, provide oversight, and recommend strategies for improving maternal, newborn and child health services. He noted that Taraba's maternal mortality rate remains a major concern, with about 576 deaths recorded for every 100,000 live births.

In a goodwill message, Mr Gabriel Yough, Chairman of the Correspondents' Chapel, stated that the media have consistently highlighted issues related to maternal mortality and other health challenges in the state. He assured that journalists would continue to serve as key partners in promoting health interventions and raising public awareness.

Also speaking, representatives of the Taraba State Coalition of Civil Society Organisations, Dr Gimba Joseph and Mrs Eglah Ibrahim, pledged the commitment of civil society groups to support the Ministry of Health in improving healthcare delivery and ensuring accountability.

The Commissioner formally inaugurated the 52-member committee, drawn from government ministries, departments and agencies, civil society organisations, and the media. He said members were carefully selected based on their experience, expertise and contributions to the health sector.

The committee is expected to develop an action plan aimed at strengthening maternal, newborn and child health services across the state.

During the meeting, stakeholders also highlighted the role of the Big Sister Initiative, a programme that provides a platform for discussions on sexual and reproductive health among adolescents aged 9 to 19 years, helping young people make informed health decisions.

Health experts at the meeting expressed optimism that the reactivation of TaSAM will improve coordination, enhance accountability and contribute to reducing preventable maternal and child deaths in Taraba State.

Why Tinubu, Kefas will win 2027 election - Minister Uba

 

By Agia Godwin, Jalingo

The Minister of State for Regional Development, Barr. Uba Maigari Ahmadu has expressed confidence that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Taraba State Governor, Dr Agbu Kefas, will both secure victory in the 2027 general elections.

The Minister stated this on Thursday in Jalingo while speaking with journalists shortly after a stakeholders' meeting of the All Progressives Congress, APC, in Taraba State.

Barr. Maigari said the track records of both leaders in governance, infrastructure development, and citizens' welfare would work in their favour at the polls.

According to him, President Tinubu has taken bold economic decisions within three years that are already yielding results and repositioning Nigeria for long-term growth.

"President Tinubu took difficult but necessary decisions to save the economy. Today, we are witnessing stability in revenue, improved allocation to states and local governments, and a renewed sense of investor confidence. Nigerians will reward him in 2027," he said.

Regarding Governor Kefas, the Minister described the Taraba governor as a listening leader whose policies in education, health, infrastructure, and security are already changing the state's narrative.

"Governor Kefas came in with a clear vision, and he is delivering. From the free education policy, to road construction, to the new security architecture, the people of Taraba can see the difference. That is why they will vote for him again in 2027," Maigari stated.

He added that the APC in Taraba is working to reconcile internal differences and build a stronger structure ahead of 2027 to ensure the party delivers both the presidency and the governorship.

The Minister also urged party members and supporters to remain united and continue to mobilise at the grassroots.

"We have no time to waste on division. Our job now is to go back to our communities, tell our story, and ensure that by 2027, APC wins convincingly in Taraba and at the centre," he said.

TARABA THERAPY' agenda is design to build job creators, not just job seekers - Prof. Nyameh

 

By Godwin Agia, Jalingo 

The Accord Party gubernatorial candidate in Taraba State, Professor Jerome Nyameh, said he has designed a comprehensive economic blueprint aimed at moving youths away from dependence on government jobs and into entrepreneurship and wealth creation, named the plan 'TARABA THERAPY' Agenda.

Prof. Nyameh made the know on Tuesday in Jalingo while interacting with journalists.

Nyameh, a Professor of Entrepreneurship and Business, said government employment remains important but cannot accommodate the growing population of young and talented people in the state. 

He argued that waiting for white-collar jobs alone will not solve the unemployment challenge.

"Government jobs are important, but the truth is that they are limited. They can never absorb the growing population of talented and energetic young people in Taraba State," he said.

He explained that the TARABA THERAPY Agenda goes far beyond the traditional approach. According to him, he has developed practical policies, strategic initiatives, and sustainable programmes designed to create jobs, generate wealth, and empower youths to become economically independent.

Nyameh said his vision is clear and direct to take Taraba youths off the streets and into productive ventures, noted that this would be achieved through targeted interventions across agriculture, entrepreneurship, technology, manufacturing, the creative industry, vocational skills, and other key sectors.

He stated that thousands of young people will be given the opportunity to build successful careers and businesses of their own under the agenda, stressed that the initiatives are practical, achievable, and focused on delivering measurable results rather than political promises.

The Gruber candidate outlined the expected impact of the plan to include reduced unemployment and poverty, improved security and social stability, and less dependence on scarce government jobs. 

He added that the agenda will also lead to stronger communities, stronger local economies, and greater innovation and productivity.

The gubernatorial hopeful said the benefits of having more self-employed youths and business owners will extend beyond individuals to entire communities, and maintained that building human capital is central to sustainable development in the state.

"My goal is simple, to raise a generation of innovators, entrepreneurs, skilled professionals, wealth creators, and employers of labour, not just job seekers," Nyameh stated.

He said that the blueprint is built on years of research, professional experience, and practical knowledge in youth entrepreneurship, community development, and economic empowerment. 

Nyameh further disclosed that as the gubernatorial campaign officially begins soon, he will be unveiling the specific initiatives under the agenda one after another.

Taraba is not for sale to frustration - Kefas' group berates Sen. Tutare

 

By Godwin Agia, Jalingo 

 The Agbu Kefas Continuity Movement has condemned a recent video by Senator Abubakar Tutare, describing it as a bitter and desperate outburst that exposes his true intentions for seeking the governorship of Taraba State under the ADC.

In a statement issued in Jalingo on Monday and signed by its Coordinator, Mallam Ibrahim Ardo, the group said the video revealed a dangerous and outdated mindset that views governance as a tool for rewarding cronies rather than serving the people.

Correspondent reports that in the clip, Senator Tutare maintained, "Unfortunately the present governor whom we believe can do better than former governor Darius Dickson Ishaku, we stand today to give kudos to Darius. If it is awarding contracts, he gives it to Niger Delta, not even his friends in Taraba. He doesn’t consider them that deserve to be helped to become rich.

"I want to assure you that we are going to change this. Taraba will be for Tarabans. Our resources will be channeled towards developing the state," he said.

Reacting further, coordinator  recalled that Senator Tutare has held several high-ranking positions including Member of the State House of Assembly, Commissioner at different times, Secretary to the State Government, and Senator of the Federal Republic but had nothing to show.

"What Tarabans saw in that video was not leadership. It was frustration, the frustration of a career politician who has spent decades in power but struggles to point to enduring impact.

"With such a long record in public office, one would expect a legacy of transformation. Instead, what we see is loud criticism without corresponding evidence of past performance," it added.

The group described Tutare’s remarks as out of touch with reality, particularly his failure to acknowledge ongoing progress across the state. It cited education reforms, payment of long-overdue gratuitie to retirees, and completion of abandoned projects as evidence of the current administration’s impact.

The movement warned that Taraba cannot afford to return to an era where public resources were controlled by a few individuals at the expense of the majority. It insisted that the state has moved beyond that culture.

It also faulted Tutare’s position on security, noting that the safety situation has improved significantly under Governor Agbu Kefas. The group recalled that there was a time even prominent figures could not access their communities freely due to insecurity.

"There was a time when even prominent figures like Senator Tutare could not freely access their communities due to insecurity. Today, there is measurable improvement. Yet, instead of acknowledging progress, he chooses distortion," the statement read.

Taraba govt. begins another set of recruitment into civil service

 

By Godwin Agia, Jalingo 

Taraba state government has on Thursday, announced the commencement of another set of employment into the civil service.

Mr. Philip Kundila, the chairman Taraba state civil service commission disclosed in a press briefing that, a total of 1,805, applicants are targeted for employment during the exercise.

According to the chairman, the hitherto ghost workers have also been absorbed into the civil service.

Kundila explained that the development was governor Agbu Kefas' directive to employ more competent citizens into the state civil service, after a long period of non employment in the state.

He also stated that the newly absorbed workers numbering, 3,187 form the first  phase of employment exercise under governor Agbu Kefas.

The chairman urged applicants to be conscious of fraudsters who may approach them under the guise of assistance.

He warned that, any individual found in such act will be punish in accordance with the law, as the exercise is free of charge, while the sale of form is 3000 Naira only.

"Do not give money to anyone in the name of assisting you to be employ. The employment is free.

"All applicants must follow through the processes, and successful ones will be shortlisted for interview. Only qualify candidate will be employ to ensure excellent civil service in Taraba state". The chairman warned.

The commission chairman and the permanent secretary, comrade David Nyan, thanked governor Agbu Kefas for the development, and for approving funds for the renovation of the commission's secretariat.

Taraba varsity ASUU seeks timely implementation of agreements, commends Gov Kefas' staff welfare

 

By Godwin Agia, Jalingo 

The Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU), Taraba State University (TSU) has urged governor Agbu Kefas to conclude the implementation of the outstanding obligations within the applicable timelines to sustain the cordial industrial relations presently existing between the government and the Union.

Dr. Joshua Garba Mbave, the branch chairman stated in a statement on Thursday that the National Executive Council (NEC) of ASUU is closely monitoring compliance by State governments, particularly with respect to the implementation of the CATA and other negotiated obligations affecting State Universities.

Dr. Mbave informed that prolonged delays in implementing the commitments may adversely affect the prevailing atmosphere of industrial harmony in the University.

The ASUU- TSU branch however commended governor Agbu Kefas' commitment to staff welfare, and the constructive engagements held with the state government.

"While ASUU-TSU branch wishes to urge the Taraba state government to conclude the implementation of the outstanding obligations within the applicable timelines to sustain the cordial industrial relations presently existing between the government and the Union, we wish to also acknowledges the constructive engagements held with the State government.

"We wish to inform the state government that the National Executive Council (NEC) of ASUU, is closely monitoring compliance by State governments, particularly with respect to the implementation of the CATA and other negotiated obligations affecting State Universities. The prolonged delays in implementing the commitments may adversely affect the prevailing atmosphere of industrial harmony in the University". The union informed in a statement.

Dr. Mbave also updated the university community and the general public, the status of the implementation of agreement reached with the state government over members welfare.

"The ASUU-TSU, acknowledges the constructive engagements held with the Taraba State Government and wishes to provide the following updates on the progress recorded and the outstanding obligations requiring implementation.

"We wish to inform that the Taraba State Government has approved the enrolment of staff of Taraba State University into the Taraba State Defined Pension Scheme. As part of the implementation process, the particulars of retired and deceased members of staff have been submitted to the appropriate authorities for processing and enrolment under the Scheme.

"We have been officially informed by the Head of Civil Service, whole is also the supervising permanent secretary, ministry for Tertiary education that the remaining administrative requirement is the formal endorsement of the approved Memorandum by the governor. Upon such endorsement, implementation of the Scheme and payment of the accrued pension benefits to eligible beneficiaries are expected to commence.

"We are pleased to report continued progress in the liquidation of outstanding salary arrears and Earned Academic Allowance (EAA). Following the suspension of the industrial action, the Taraba State Government released the sum of N500 million towards the settlement of the outstanding obligations.

In furtherance of this commitment, an additional N200 million was released in July 2026 to sustain the payment process". It's continued.

The union commended the commitment and sustained interventions of the Honourable Commissioner for Tertiary Education, Hon. Dr. Mike Dio Jen, and the Head of Service and Supervising Permanent Secretary, Ministry for Tertiary Education, Dr. Ahmed Hamidu Kara, for their efforts.

It also noted that some commitments were still unmet, and urged the state government to act in that regard.

"While appreciable progress has been recorded in addressing the welfare concerns of members, the Branch notes that the implementation of the approved salary structure, the Consolidated Academic Tools Allowance (CATA), and other negotiated entitlements remains outstanding.

"The request by the Branch for implementation of CATA was formally communicated to the Governing Council of Taraba State University on 17th March 2026.

"Furthermore, the National Universities Commission (NUC) has communicated the same FGN/ASUU agreement 2025 to the Visitors of State Universities for immediate implementation, including Taraba State University.

"The Union therefore respectfully calls on the Taraba State Government to expedite the necessary administrative processes and take all appropriate steps to ensure timely implementation of the approved salary structure (CATA), and all other outstanding negotiated entitlements". The union noted.

Dr. Mbave expressed the union's readiness to constructive engagement and social dialogue. He stated that the ASUU-TSU will continue to monitor the implementation of all agreements while taking all lawful and legitimate measures necessary to safeguard the welfare of its members and promote the continued growth, stability, and development of the University.

High Court adjourns hearing on Gabriel Olayinka's bail condition to 30th July

By Godwin Agia, Jalingo 

The Taraba state High Court (2) sitting in Jalingo on Tuesday adjourned till 30th, July 2026, to rule on the bail condition application filed in a case between  Mr. Isa Jibril and a Taraba base Businessman and Journalist, Mr. Gabriel Olayinka.

Our reporter says Mr. Olayinka is standing trial over alleged criminal breach of trust, and has been in detention at the Jalingo correctional centre since January 2026.

The upper area Court in Jalingo had ordered that the sum of 100 million be deposited in the court registry and one suretie as condition for the accused journalist to be released on bail.

Counsel for the accused persons, Barr. P.D Pius, of P.D Pius and Associates is seeking the variation of the bail condition to enable his client be released from the prison.

When the case came up for hearing, counsel for the complainant, D.G Tukura opposed the application and asked the court to strike it out for lack of competence.

Barr. Tukura had earlier filed a notice  of preliminary objections challenging the competence of the application, and a counter affidavit opposing the bail application.

Tukura argued that order 2, of the  court stipulate how processes for an application be made, which the defendant counsel failed to act as supposed.

Barr. Tukura also insisted that the counsel failed to State clearing the condition given by the lower court, and what he want the high court to intervene in.

However, Barr. P.D Pius argued that the matter was civil in nature, and does not require such bail condition. He prayed the court to grant his application to enable his client enjoy his bail rights.

Meanwhile, the judge, justice Nuhu Adi, adjourned the matter to 30th, July 2026 for ruling.

Taraba Sanitation agency begins desilting drainages across LGAs

 

By Godwin Agia, Jalingo   

The Taraba State Environmental and Sanitation Agency (TSESA), has embarked on the mass clearing of drainages across the 16 local government headquarters to tackle predicted flooding.

The Chairman of TSESA, Iliya Kefas Alhaji, disclosed this on Tuesday while conducting journalists round the exercise in Jalingo.

He noted that the agency has also commenced the spraying of herbicides to clear bushes by roadsides across the state to safeguard pedestrians and improve hygiene.

Iliya explained that the exercise was ongoing simultaneously in all 16 local government headquarters in the state.

He said Governor Agbu Kefas had approved funds for the agency to carry out the statewide cleanliness campaign and urged residents to properly dispose waste at designated areas for easy evacuation.

"Our governor, Dr. Agbu Kefas has already approved funds for the agency to conduct the cleanliness of the state. We have engaged thousands of youths. Some are for sweeping our streets, some for opening blockages in drainages, while others are for spraying herbicides by the roadsides.

"The job is a difficult one. It needs energy, power and determination. We have to do it. Nobody can come here and do it for us. It is our state and it is our responsibility to make it clean," he said.

Meanwhile, residents of Jalingo have commended Governor Kefas for establishing TSESA, adding that the sanitation in the state capital has greatly improved hygiene.

Speaking with our correspondent during the exercise, residents called on the governor to sustain the operations of the agency. 

A resident of mayo-Dassa, Mr Francis Ikyur said the state capital had not witnessed such a clean outlook in years.

"The drainages here in Mayo-Dassa were totally blocked and filled with sand. There were no waterways and that was why we were having constant flooding anytime there was little rain. Now, waterways have been opened by TSESA. No matter how it rains, the water will always have its way to pass," he added.

Gombe South youths commend HUB Foundation for community development efforts

 

By Godwin Agia, Jalingo 

The Gombe South Youths in Politics have commended the humanitarian interventions of the Hub 2023 Grand Development Foundation, describing the organisation as a model for community-driven development and peaceful coexistence across northern Nigeria.

The Hub 2023 Grand Development Foundation is a non-governmental organisation registered with the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC), with members drawn from across Nigeria and active chapters in Gombe, Plateau, the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) and Taraba states.

The commendation followed a series of community engagement activities undertaken by the Foundation in Gombe State under the leadership of its President, Chief Barr. Gibson Timothy Kataps, Secretary to the Taraba State Government.

Speaking on behalf of the group, the Coordinator of Gombe South Youths in Politics said the Foundation had continued to demonstrate genuine commitment to improving the lives of ordinary people through initiatives that promote unity, peace and sustainable development.

According to the coordinator, members of the Foundation visited Tanglang in Billiri Local Government Area to condole with one of its members, Dr. Arabs Rukujei, over the death of his elder brother.

The delegation also paid a courtesy visit to the Mai Kaltungo at his palace in Kaltungo Local Government Area, where discussions centred on strengthening collaboration with traditional institutions in the promotion of peace and community development.

The Foundation further visited businessman and politician, Hon. Dr. Jerry Joseph Damara, the APC candidate for Gombe South Senatorial District, in recognition of his contributions to the socio-economic development of the zone.

The youths noted that beyond solidarity visits, the Foundation had distinguished itself through projects including the provision of solar-powered boreholes, installation of solar streetlights, youth empowerment programmes and initiatives targeted at improving the livelihoods of women across communities where it operates.

"We commend Chief Barr. Gibson Timothy Kataps and the entire Hub 2023 Grand Development Foundation for their selfless leadership and unwavering commitment to humanity. Their activities continue to unite people across state boundaries and inspire hope among communities. We encourage the Foundation to sustain its noble interventions," he said.

The group also acknowledged the contributions of the Foundation’s Organising Secretary, Barr. Sani Marke, describing him as one of the key figures driving the organisation’s grassroots mobilisation and programme coordination.

According to the group, Marke has played a strategic role in expanding the Foundation’s reach through effective coordination of community engagements and partnerships that align with the organisation’s vision of promoting peace, inclusion and sustainable development.

The youths called on governments, development partners and well-meaning Nigerians to support the Foundation’s humanitarian initiatives, noting that collaborative efforts remained essential to achieving sustainable community development.

IAVMN names Prof. Subair as new president

 

By Godwin Agia

The Institute of Assets and Values Management of Nigeria, IAVMN, has appointed Professor Kolawole Subair, as its new President and Chairman of the Governing Council.

In a statement signed by the Registrar/Chief Executive, Prof. Babatunde Akinsanya, the institute said Subair was unanimously appointed by the Governing Council at its meeting held on Sunday, at the IAVMN Secretariat in Lagos.

According to the statement, the council also appointed 10 other members of the new governing council.

They include Mr. Olusola Fajimi, 1st Vice President; Sir Dr. Emeka Ariguzo, 2nd Vice President; Mr. Oseni-Ope Bashiru Temitayo, Treasurer; and Prof. Babatunde Akinsanya, Registrar/Chief Executive.

Other council members are Hon. Taiwo Owolabi; Engr. Gbenga Alani Odemuyiwa, Mr. Oboh Emmanuel Attah, Miss Adedoyin Adelakun, Alhaji Mohammed Yayangida Umar, and Mr. Tajudeen Olawale Ekemode.

"The Institute of Assets and Values Management of Nigeria is pleased to formally announce to its members, stakeholders, and the general public that the Governing Council unanimously approved and appointed Prof. Kolawole Subair, PhD, FIAVMN, as the President/Chairman of the Governing Council," statement read.

The institute expressed confidence that Subair’s wealth of experience, leadership capacity, and commitment to professional excellence would strengthen its mission of promoting professionalism, ethical standards, transparency, and best practices in assets and values management in Nigeria.

It added that the council remains committed to advancing the practice through professional development, research, advocacy, capacity building, and the promotion of global best practices.

The institute called on government agencies, corporate organisations, professional bodies, academic institutions, and the public to support its vision of fostering excellence, accountability, and transparency in the management and valuation of assets across Nigeria.

I'll never withdraw from Taraba north race, I remain candidate - Bandawaire

By Godwin Agia, Taraba 

The Taraba North senatorial aspirant of the All Progressives Congress APC, Hon. Kabiru Bello Badawaire on Saturday said, he will not withdraw from the race for any individual contesting for the position.

Hon Badawaire also informed that, he was duely elected and confirmed by the Independent National Electoral Commission INEC, and has remain the candidate of the APC for the position.

He denounced the claims speculating in the media that the party has replaced his name with incumbent Senator Shuibu Isa Lau as candidate of the party for the position.

"I will not withdraw from the senatorial race to represent Taraba North senatorial district. I am the candidate, and will not step aside for any individual.

"I can't sale out the mandate given to me by the masses. I am not aware of my replacement, and the party has not communicated me". Hon. Badawaire insisted.

The Taraba North senatorial candidate stated that the section 29 of the Electoral act, clearly stipulates that, until a duely elected candidate decides to withdraw from a race before he or she can be replaced with another candidate by the party.

"I do not look like one who will withdraw from the race, and that remains my possession. The party must have to respect due process.

"The claims of my replacement is not democratic. Except a candidate is properly communicated and he concealed to the idea, or has willingly written to the party of his decision to step aside from the contest before can be replaced.

"I wish to inform Tarabans That my name is not replaced with any individual. I remain the senatorial candidate of the All Progressives Congress for Taraba North, and will not withdraw for any body". Badawaire stated.

2027: Accord Guber candidate Prof. Nyameh names Ex-CPS campaign Spokesperson

 

By Godwin Agia, Jalingo

The Accord Party governorship candidate in Taraba State, Prof. Jerome Nyameh, has appointed Mallam Lawal Sani Kona as Spokesperson for his 2027 campaign.

Sani Kona a retired Director of Program at the Taraba State Broadcasting Service, previously served as Chief Press Secretary to former Deputy Governor, Engr. Haruna Manu.

In a statement on Saturday, Nyameh described Sani Kona as a highly trained and accomplished media professional with extensive experience in journalism, documentary production, translation, and strategic communication.

"Mallam Lawal Sani Kona is a highly trained and accomplished media professional with extensive experience in journalism, documentary production, translation, and strategic communication. Over the years, he has distinguished himself through dedicated service in various reputable media organizations, earning a strong reputation for professionalism, integrity, and excellence.

"His wealth of experience in media engagement, public communication, and information management makes him exceptionally qualified for this important responsibility. As Campaign Spokesperson, he will play a pivotal role in articulating our vision, policies, and commitment to building a better future for the people of Taraba State.

"Mallam Lawal Sani Kona hails from Jalingo Local Government Area and brings to the campaign a deep understanding of the aspirations of our people, as well as the communication expertise needed to effectively engage stakeholders across the state and beyond.

"I congratulate him on this well-deserved appointment and wish him success as we work together to advance our collective vision for a prosperous, united, and progressive state under The Taraba Therapy agenda 2027," statement read.

Corps member empowers 1,102 women, students with vocational, literacy training

 

By Godwin Agia, Jalingo

A serving member of the National Youth Service Corps, Joy Alkali, has trained and empowered 1,102 students and women in Taraba State through vocational skills acquisition, literacy and Computer-Based Test (CBT) training, as part of her Community Development Service project.

Alkali also donated school uniforms to 30 students of Government Day Secondary School, Howai, in Jalingo to support access to education.

The project, implemented under her Better Tomorrow Initiative, was inaugurated on Tuesday after three months of a “Learning to Read” literacy programme and a week-long training in baking, pastry and confectionery.

Speaking at the graduation ceremony, Alkali said the initiative was designed to equip women and young people with practical, income-generating skills that would enhance their livelihoods, promote self-reliance and contribute to community development.

She said the project was inspired by her commitment to making a lasting impact beyond the classroom, stressing that empowering women creates a ripple effect that strengthens families and communities.

“Today is not just about celebrating the completion of a programme; it is about celebrating hope, empowerment and a better future for our community.

“We believe that when a woman is empowered, her family is strengthened, her community is transformed and the nation becomes better,” she said.

Alkali urged the beneficiaries to put the skills acquired into productive use by establishing small businesses and mentoring others within their communities.

She added that the donation of school uniforms to 30 students was intended to complement the education policy of Taraba State Governor, Agbu Kefas, by reducing the financial burden on parents and encouraging school attendance.

The corps member also acknowledged the support of sponsors, facilitators, volunteers and community leaders, noting that the success of the Better Tomorrow Initiative should be measured by the number of lives positively impacted.

The Taraba State NYSC Coordinator, Mr Ella Aji Williams, commended Alkali for undertaking a community-focused project in line with the objectives of the NYSC Community Development Service.

Represented by the Head of Community Development Service, Mr Sunday Wankari, Williams also lauded the management of Government Day Secondary School, Howai, and the Taraba State Government for providing a peaceful environment that enabled corps members to execute impactful community projects.

The NYSC Local Government Inspector, Mr Lafal Clement, described the initiative as a model of selfless service and urged other corps members to undertake projects that address the needs of their host communities.

“Let this be a reference point for service that truly touches lives,” he said.

The Principal of Government Day Secondary School, Howai, Comrade Abubakar Sanusi, expressed appreciation for Alkali’s contributions, describing her intervention as one that addressed critical needs within the school.

He said the corps member renovated classroom chalkboards, introduced reading support and CBT training, donated school uniforms and carried out other interventions that had significantly benefited students.

Taraba Varsity ASUU issues final strike warning to gov. Kefas over 2025 FG pact

 

By Godwin Agia, Jalingo 

The Academic Staff Union of Universities, ASUU, Taraba State University, Jalingo chapter, has issued it described as a final notice to Governor Agbu Kefas to implement the 2025 Federal Government-negotiated agreement with ASUU or risk an indefinite strike.

In a statement on Wednesday, the TSU-ASUU Chairman, Dr. Joshua Garba Mbaver, described the state government’s failure to honour the agreement as neglect of lecturers and demanded immediate compliance.

Mbaver said the union’s patience was exhausted and it had become necessary to alert the public, parents, students, traditional rulers, civil society organisations, labour unions, and “all lovers of education.”

He listed unresolved issues to include the non-implementation of the 2025 FGN-ASUU negotiated agreement, and the refusal to pay the Consolidated Academic Tools Allowance, CATA, Professorial Allowance, and Earned Academic Allowance, EAA.

"This press statement is ASUU-TSU’s final warning to the state government to act or face strike action. Enough of empty promises.

"These are not new or unreasonable requests. They have been discussed, negotiated, documented, and repeatedly brought before the state government. Instead of concrete action, our union has been met with silence and neglect," Mbaver said.

He noted that the 2025 agreement was expected to address long-standing problems in university education, including staff welfare, university funding, revitalisation, and better conditions of service.

The union demanded immediate implementation of CATA; payment of all outstanding arrears from non-implementation of legitimate entitlements; and respect for collective bargaining as a basic principle of industrial harmony.

"Despite the understanding reached, the Taraba State Government has failed to implement the agreement. This failure is unacceptable, provocative, and dangerous for the future of TSU.

"We view the continued failure to implement the 2025 FGN-ASUU agreement as a profound disregard for the principles of collective bargaining. It shows a lack of seriousness about the survival of TSU.

"ASUU-TSU is not asking for charity. We demand what is due to our members. We demand respect for labour and comprehensive implementation of the 2025 FGN-ASUU agreement," it read in parts.

ASUU-TSU further warned it would be left with no other option but to embark on an indefinite strike if its demands are not met within the shortest time.