Kefas Unveils N2.5bn Relief Package For Vulnerable Households

Taraba State government has hinted of a N2.5 billion intervention package for vulnerable households, youths and communities affected by crises statewide.

The state government also ordered a seven-day status report on the stalled reconstruction of the collapsed Namnai Bridge on the Jalingo/Wukari Federal Highway.

Governor Agbu Kefas, who made the announcements in a statewide broadcast, to mark the nation’s 66th Independence Anniversary, said N500 million had been approved for the six-month Taraba Cares Social Investment and Poverty Relief Programme, while another N1 billion each would go to the Taraba State Youth

Development Agency and the crisis recovery efforts in Karim Lamido and other affected parts of the state.
The governor said Taraba Cares which will run from October 2026 to March 2027, would prioritise widows with dependants, older persons without reliable income, persons with disabilities and other households facing severe hardship.

According to Kefas, the beneficiaries would be selected based on verified need, rather than political affiliation, religion, ethnicity or personal connections.

He directed the implementing agencies to publish eligibility requirements, registration procedures and a complaints channel in that regard.

The governor, also announced the unveiling of a 168-Ward Quick Impact Development Programme before the end of October, saying each ward would receive a visible project selected according to local needs.

He said, communities would participate in identifying priorities, while the programme would be assessed based on projects completed and benefits delivered rather than announcements.

Governor Kefas, further announced the commencement of the Taraba Teachers’ Welfare, Professionalisation and Housing Programme in 2027, saying a time bound committee would consult teachers and their unions on welfare, professional standards, sustainable salary improvements and housing, particularly in rural and underserved communities.

The governor also unveiled plans to harness the state’s aquatic resources, including rivers, lakes, dams and wetlands, for fisheries, food production, processing and employment for youths, women and fishing communities.