The governor of Taraba State, Agbu Kefas, has said that he has laid foundation for an economically viable state with strong security architecture in the first 100 days he was sworn in as governor of the state.
Speaking during a ceremony held at the Taraba State House Exco Chambers to mark his 100 days in office, the governor made a commitment to bring further positive change, progress, and prosperity to Taraba State.
According to him, the state has also progressed in infrastructure development, which would be used to set the course for the future.
“In these first 100 days, we have achieved significant milestones including Infrastructure Development Agricultural Transformation, Education and Skill Development, Healthcare Access, Security and Civil Service Reform,” he stated.
The governor also disclosed that his administration has prioritised the prompt payment of salaries, pensions and entitlements.
“We have initiated key infrastructure projects across the state, with a focus on improving our road networks, health care facilities, and educational institutions. Progress has been made, but there is more to be done to ensure access to quality services for our citizens.
“Also, in our ongoing journey to re-vitalize Taraba State, I am delighted to share with you our plans for the reopening and upgrading of critical infrastructure, including the Suntai Airport in Jalingo, to meet higher standards of air operations. The Suntai Airport in Jalingo is a gateway to our state, and its reopening and upgrade are critical for fostering economic growth,” he enthused.
He assured Tarabans that he was committed to fulfilling all his electoral promises to the people while calling for support and collaboration to build a stronger, prosperous and more inclusive state.
“I want to assure you that we are committed to fulfilling the promises we made during the campaigns. Taraba State is on the path to progress, and while we have achieved much in these 100 days, our journey is far from over. Together, with your support and collaboration, we will build a stronger, more prosperous and inclusive Taraba State,” he added.
Speaking earlier, the state’s Commissioner for Information and Reorientation, Barr. Zainab Usman Jalingo, hailed Governor Kefas for laying a foundation of a brighter future in the state.
“In these first 100 days, His Excellency, Governor Agbu Kefas has laid the foundation for a brighter Taraba. Among his notable milestones, are the declaration of free basic education for primary and secondary schools, and the 50% reduction in tuition fees and accommodation fees, respectively for all tertiary institutions, the payment of pensions, the ongoing renovations of selected secondary schools in the state, and the prospective procurement of 850 modern tractors to support our farmers in boosting agriculture, among other initiatives.
“These landmarks form the bedrock upon which we will construct a brighter Taraba. In the face of challenges, Governor Kefas and his team have persevered, tirelessly working towards fulfilling the aspirations of our people, guided by the moving-forward mantra, that which resonates with us all,” she said.
Delivering a keynote address at the event, Dare Akinniyi, a Strategic Communicator and Perception Manager, described Agbu as one who is an example of a leader who should be emulated.
He called for special support for the governor as he cannot afford to fail as many young people were looking up to him as a source of inspiration.
“Half of decision makers in this state are in this room. I want to say, you need to support this young man. Taraba must work. And if Taraba must work, it is not a matter of prayer. It means everybody here must do his own bit. I know a lot of you will be saying, what is this young guy saying? Well, it is because we have so much interest in the governor and because we are in a party where our elders have shown that if we don’t hold them by their neck, they will not give us space.
“So, at every opportunity that we see in any young man, creating the space for the youth of this country, we will use everything within our means to support him. And that is why I am putting this message before you and before Taraba,” Akinniyi stated.
