AGBU KEFAS: From policy to progress

2026-03-03 - 05:08

By Femi Bolaji Governor Agbu Kefas has brought a renewed sense of purpose to governance in Taraba State through policies and projects aimed at rebuilding institutions, expanding access to social services, and accelerating development across urban and rural communities. His administration has adopted a people focused approach that prioritizes healthcare delivery, education reform, infrastructure expansion, and human capital development, while also addressing economic growth and social inclusion. These efforts reflect a deliberate strategy to reposition Taraba State for sustainable progress. Healthcare has been a major area of intervention under Governor Kefas’s leadership. Recognizing the importance of accessible and quality medical services, his administration launched the Primary Healthcare Revitalization Programme, which focuses on rehabilitating and equipping Primary Healthcare Centres across the state. Facilities in local government areas such as Zing, Lau, Takum, and Bali have benefited from renovations, improved water supply, and the provision of essential medical equipment. At the secondary and tertiary levels of healthcare, the administration has invested in the upgrade of the Specialist Hospital Jalingo. The project includes renovation of wards, improvement of diagnostic facilities, and better working conditions for health professionals. These interventions aim to reduce the need for medical referrals outside the state and improve healthcare outcomes for residents. Maternal and child health services have also received attention through expanded immunization programs and community health outreach initiatives. Education reform stands at the center of Governor Kefas’s development vision. His administration declared a policy of free and compulsory education at the basic level, removing financial barriers that had kept many children out of school. As part of this policy, the government commenced the renovation of public primary and secondary schools under the School Infrastructure Renewal Project. Classrooms, hostels, libraries, and sanitation facilities have been rehabilitated in schools across Jalingo, Wukari, Mutum Biyu, and Sardauna. Teacher recruitment and training have complemented these infrastructure upgrades. The administration has approved the employment of qualified teachers and invested in capacity building to improve teaching quality. At the tertiary level, Governor Kefas has supported the development of Taraba State University through projects such as the construction of the Senate Building Complex and rehabilitation of lecture halls and student hostels. These investments are aimed at strengthening academic standards and expanding access to higher education. Infrastructure development has been one of the most visible achievements of the Kefas administration. Through the Jalingo Township Roads Rehabilitation Project, several internal roads have been reconstructed to improve traffic flow and enhance urban mobility. Drainage rehabilitation works have also been carried out to address flooding challenges during the rainy season, contributing to a cleaner and safer urban environment. Beyond the state capital, the government has invested in rural road projects designed to connect farming communities to markets and service centers. Roads linking communities in Ardo Kola, Karim Lamido, and Gassol local government areas have improved access to agricultural markets and social services. These projects play a critical role in boosting rural economies and reducing isolation. Human capital development extends beyond formal education in Governor Kefas’s policy framework. His administration has introduced youth empowerment and skills acquisition programs aimed at reducing unemployment and promoting self reliance. Under the Taraba Youth Skills and Entrepreneurship Programme, young people have received training in areas such as agro processing, tailoring, information technology, and small scale manufacturing. Beneficiaries are supported with starter kits and mentorship to enable them to establish sustainable livelihoods. Women empowerment has also received focused attention. Through targeted support programs, women entrepreneurs have gained access to training, cooperative financing, and small business grants. These initiatives strengthen household incomes and promote inclusive economic participation, particularly in rural communities. Agriculture remains a key pillar of Taraba State’s economy, and Governor Kefas has taken steps to enhance productivity and food security. The Agricultural Inputs Distribution Scheme has provided farmers with improved seeds, fertilizers, and farming tools. Irrigation support projects in riverine areas of the state have encouraged dry season farming, increased crop yields, and improved farmer incomes. In governance and public sector management, the administration has emphasized transparency and accountability. The regular payment of salaries and pensions has restored confidence among civil servants and retirees, while reforms in public finance management have ensured better use of resources. These measures have strengthened institutional credibility and improved service delivery across ministries and agencies. Social welfare and community development form another important aspect of Governor Kefas’s achievements. Programs targeting vulnerable groups, including internally displaced persons and low income households, have provided relief, resettlement support, and access to basic services. Community engagement initiatives have also promoted peaceful coexistence and strengthened relationships between government and citizens. Governor Agbu Kefas’s administration has recorded notable achievements across healthcare, education, infrastructure development, human capital development, and other key sectors in Taraba State. Through clearly defined projects and inclusive policies, his government is addressing long standing challenges while laying the foundation for sustainable growth. Although development is an ongoing process, the initiatives implemented so far reflect a clear commitment to improving the welfare of the people and building a stronger future for Taraba State.