By Terna Chikpa, Jalingo
The Global Baptist Mission has called on the Federal Government of Nigeria and the Taraba State Government to increase developmental presence in communities on the Mambilla Plateau in Sardauna Local Government Area of Taraba State.
President of the church, James Fongong, made the call on Thursday while preaching during the church’s 2026 Annual Convention and 10th Anniversary Celebration held in Kusuku.
Fongong lamented the lack of basic amenities in many communities across the Mambilla area and urged government authorities to address the situation.
According to him, poor road networks and inadequate healthcare services have remained major challenges confronting the communities for years.
He appealed to Agbu Kefas and Bola Ahmed Tinubu to take decisive steps to improve development in the area.
“While I commend Governor Agbu Kefas for establishing the Taraba State University of Tropical Agriculture, Science, Technology and Climate Action in Gembu and for the free education policy of his administration, I wish to appeal that more attention should be given to improving development in the Mambilla communities of Sardauna LGA,” he said.
Fongong also urged the federal government to construct the Bali–Gembu road leading to the Mambilla Hydropower Project.
“Sardauna LGA has been without basic infrastructure such as access roads and adequate healthcare services for many years despite successive governments in Nigeria. We appeal for urgent consideration,” he added.
The church leader, however, commended Governor Kefas for what he described as his developmental strides and policies aimed at restoring lasting peace across Taraba State.
Meanwhile, Governor Agbu Kefas, who also addressed the congregation, called on Christians to remain faithful and trust in God in all circumstances.
Quoting from Psalms 62:5–8 in a message titled “Almighty God Is Our Rock in Times of Trouble,” the governor urged worshippers to rely on God despite global challenges.
“In times of global challenges such as war, terrorism, economic hardship and social confusion confronting contemporary society, we all need to remain prayerful and trust in God to overcome these situations,” he said.
“God remains the only dependable refuge when difficult situations arise. We must exhibit the faith of David and trust God in all circumstances.”
Earlier, the lawmaker representing Nguroje State Constituency in the Taraba State House of Assembly, Nelson Len, commended Governor Kefas for what he described as his transformational leadership aimed at placing Taraba on the global map of peace and development.
Len also expressed optimism that the governor’s alignment with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu would attract more developmental projects to Taraba, particularly on the Mambilla Plateau, and urged citizens to support the government.
