2027: Shiddi Unveils ‘Rescue Taraba’ Manifesto, Promises Inclusive Development

The governorship candidate of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) in Taraba State, Hon. Danjuma Usman Shiddi, has proposed a comprehensive assessment of infrastructure, public services and finances within his first 100 days in office, if elected governor in 2027.

In his Rescue Taraba manifesto, Hon. Shiddi said the proposed assessment would cover water supply systems, schools, primary healthcare facilities, critical roads and bridges, security challenges, agricultural support programmes and government finances to establish priorities for his administration.

The candidate said the exercise would provide an evidence-based foundation for determining urgent public needs, identifying implementation gaps and developing realistic programmes capable of delivering measurable benefits to residents.

He argued that governance should be driven by practical priorities, responsible spending, and accountability, rather than by promises lacking clear implementation plans.

The APGA candidate’s proposed development agenda also places emphasis on transparency in public procurement, improved financial management and the introduction of measurable performance indicators for major government programmes.

According to the manifesto, his administration would promote the publication of relevant government information, encourage independent monitoring of major projects, and strengthen institutional mechanisms to ensure that public funds are deployed for their intended purposes.

Hon. Shiddi, on infrastructure, proposed a review of critical roads and bridges, particularly those linking farming communities to markets, schools, healthcare facilities and other economic centres.

He also pledged to pursue collaboration with the Federal Government and development partners to address major infrastructure needs.

“Water supply is another priority in the manifesto, with the candidate proposing the rehabilitation of existing water systems in major towns and the expansion of community water projects across Taraba’s 16 local government areas.”

He also outlined plans to promote solar-powered boreholes where technically suitable and to establish sustainable maintenance arrangements involving government, communities, development partners, and private investors.

Hon. Shiddi, however, promised to prioritise the rehabilitation of dilapidated schools, provision of learning materials, teacher training and the expansion of technical and vocational education.

He also proposed greater use of digital technology to improve learning opportunities for students.

On security, the candidate advocated stronger coordination among conventional security agencies, local governments, traditional institutions, and communities to improve intelligence gathering, early warning, and emergency response.

He further proposed practical measures to protect farming communities and economic corridors, and stressed the need to safeguard agricultural activities and the livelihoods of rural residents.

Hon. Shiddi pledged to support farmers by improving access to agricultural inputs, extension services, irrigation, storage facilities, and markets, while promoting agro-processing and private-sector investment to strengthen the state’s economy.

The manifesto also proposes skills acquisition, entrepreneurship support and access to legitimate financing opportunities for youths and women, alongside measures to improve the business environment and encourage local enterprises to expand and create jobs.

The APGA candidate promised to strengthen primary healthcare facilities, improve access to essential medicines and basic equipment, and invest in maternal and child health services.

He also proposed upgrading selected secondary healthcare facilities and improving emergency medical response.