By Godwin Agia, Jalingo
Taraba State governor Dr. Agbu Kefas has announced a N2.5 billion people-first intervention package as part of his statewide broadcast to mark Nigeria’s 66th Independence anniversary.
In the broadcast on Thursday, Kefas said the package comprises N500 million for TARABA CARES – a six-month Social Investment and Poverty Relief Programme from October 2026 to March 2027, N1 billion additional funding for the Taraba State Youth Development Agency, and N1 billion for relief and recovery in Karim Lamido and other crisis-affected communities.
Kefas said TARABA CARES, which he first announced during the state’s 35th anniversary in August, will target widows with dependants, older persons without reliable income, persons living with disabilities and other vulnerable households.
He directed implementing agencies to publish eligibility criteria and ensure selection is based on verified need, not political affiliation, religion or ethnicity.
The Governor also announced that the Taraba State 168-Ward Quick Impact Development Programme will be unveiled before the end of October 2026, with each ward to get a visible project based on community needs.
He further announced the Taraba Teachers’ Welfare, Professionalisation and Housing Programme to begin in 2027, and plans to harness the state’s aquatic potential from rivers, lakes and dams for fisheries and jobs.
Kefas said his administration inherited debts and continues to service them, noting that borrowing is not a failure if lawful and productive. He directed financial authorities to publish a reconciled public statement of the state’s debt profile.
The Governor congratulated President Bola Tinubu on Nigeria’s victory at the International Chamber of Commerce tribunal on September 17 over the Mambilla Hydroelectric Power Project, and pledged Taraba’s readiness to work with the Federal Government while also developing small hydropower and solar through the State Electricity Commission.
According to him, the collapsed Namnai Bridge along Jalingo-Wukari road, Kefas acknowledged hardship and loss of lives, and directed the Ministry of Works and the Secretary to the State Government to engage the North East Development Commission and contractor, and submit a verified status report within seven days.
He also announced a stakeholder meeting on October 3 with artisanal miners to set safety standards, and introduced “OUR TARABA, OUR RESPONSIBILITY” civic initiative.
“Exercising powers under Section 212 of the Constitution, I granted prerogative of mercy to 24 inmates following review by the Advisory Council on the Prerogative of Mercy.
“In continuation of our youth-empowerment efforts, I have approved an additional N1 billion for the Taraba State Youth Development Agency.
“Our young people need practical opportunities to develop their abilities, earn a living and contribute to the growth of Taraba. The Agency will publish the programme, selection criteria and application process, and report publicly on the skills, livelihoods, enterprises and opportunities supported.
“I have approved a further N1 billion to provide relief and support recovery in crisis-affected communities in Karim Lamido and other affected parts of the State.
“To families who have lost loved ones, homes, livelihoods or the peace of their communities, I say your suffering matters to this Government, and we will stand with you.
“Implementation will be guided by verified need and will prioritise the most severely affected families and communities. All expenditure will be publicly accounted for.
“These three interventions represent N2.5 billion in approved funding for vulnerable households, youth empowerment and crisis recovery. Every naira must serve its intended purpose. I expect the responsible agencies to deliver, account for these funds and make the results visible to the people.”
He assured pensioners that the ongoing pension payments will continue as government continues to give priority to their welfare.
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