There is a seeming breakthrough of transformation that is gradually placing Taraba State on the global map of development.
This wave of progress is rising higher due to the determination of Governor Agbu Kefas to ensure total transformation across all sectors, thereby attracting sustainable growth for the state.
Governance analysts believe that the deliberate strides of Governor Kefas within two years can best be appreciated by a progressive school of thought. Questions such as “Why” and “What” naturally arise — why the governor is making developmental efforts far above expectations, and what he intends to achieve: whether for mere applause, or to fulfill the genuine desire for citizens to prosper.
At 54, Governor Kefas has clocked two years in office with a remarkable record of achievements that have placed Taraba in the spotlight of local and international development actors.
Analysts of good governance note that every idea and step taken by the governor is directed towards a transformational drive — to position Taraba as an economic hub of Nigeria and a prosperous, safe home for citizens and investors alike.
Checks by our correspondent show that within two years, Governor Kefas has demonstrated an eventful administration that prioritizes the people’s welfare above personal interest, redefining governance in line with the citizens’ desire for a prosperous Taraba.
Hon. Danjuma Adamu, former Commissioner for Information and Re-orientation, observed that the governor is prioritizing infrastructure, especially in rural areas.
“Governor Kefas is trying hard to break the record of transformation in the history of Taraba. He is building the state fast enough that, in the next few years, Taraba can compete with states like Lagos in terms of infrastructure and revenue generation.
Through the Ministry of Rural Development, road rehabilitation has been prioritized to facilitate access to local markets and ease the transportation of farm produce,” Adamu explained.
Also, the Commissioner for Cooperatives and Poverty Alleviation, Hon. Habu James Philip, said the governor’s transformational drive was already yielding results.
“Taraba has a population of about 4 million, with the majority living in poverty. Statistics show that around 80 percent face extreme hardship. Governor Kefas has declared free basic education and reduced higher education fees by half, greatly reducing the financial burden on families,” Philip told Tribune.
He added that the governor has introduced social grants for young people, providing between ₦50,000 and ₦100,000 to youths aged 18 to 45, and partnered with NG-Cares to support verified vulnerable individuals.
“Recently, we distributed funds to 10,049 beneficiaries. Women empowerment has also taken centre stage. Through the World Bank–funded Nigeria for Women Project, the governor has provided rice and groundnut processing machines to women across all 16 local government areas. The transformation is not just infrastructural — it is human-centered,” the commissioner said.
Scorecard of the Kefas Administration in Two Years
Security: Unlike in the past when Taraba was plagued by killings, ethnic clashes, and kidnappings, Governor Kefas has successfully reduced insecurity, allowing citizens to go about daily activities without fear.
Education: Basic and secondary education is now free and compulsory. Fees for higher institutions have been reduced by 50 percent, resulting in higher school enrollment and a sharp drop in out-of-school children. Teachers’ welfare, retraining, and construction of 60 new schools are also underway.
Infrastructure: Through the Taraba Road Construction and Maintenance Agency (TARCMA), the governor has launched massive inter-city road projects. He also secured a partnership with a Chinese construction firm for highway expansion. The Danbaba Suntai Airport in Jalingo has been modernized, now handling more carriers with weekly flights. Other projects include the remodelled Kefas Palliative Market in Jalingo, the upgraded Taraba College of Nursing and Midwifery, the modern banquet hall, and the remodelled State House of Assembly.
Agriculture: With over 290 functional tractors deployed, Taraba’s agricultural output has risen significantly. Farmers now enjoy access to fertilisers, pesticides, and better security. A livestock agency has been established to manage herder-farmer relations and maximize livestock potential.
Health: New salary structures and incentives for doctors have strengthened the health sector. Projects such as the completion of Ussa General Hospital, the transformation of Wukari General Hospital into a teaching hospital, and the TY Danjuma Rufkatu Hospitals have reshaped healthcare delivery. Mobile hospitals and modern equipment are also improving services.
Solid Minerals: Governor Kefas declared a state of emergency in the mining sector, tackling illegal mining and boosting revenue. Under his leadership, Taraba’s internally generated revenue has risen from millions to billions of naira.
Global Partnerships: Governor Kefas has positioned Taraba on the international stage, signing MoUs with foreign partners and attracting investors. The recently held Taravest brought global investors together to explore Taraba’s economic potential.
Restoring Faith in Governance
Beyond sectoral achievements, the governor has restored faith in governance. He has appointed youths into leadership positions, revived running costs for ministries and agencies, ensured prompt payment of salaries, and introduced reforms across local governments, the civil service, the judiciary, and traditional institutions.
Governor Agbu Kefas continues to run the state with humility, transparency, and a fear of God. His policies reflect selflessness, accountability, and a passion for excellence, making him one of the most transformative leaders Taraba has ever seen.
