FG reaffirms partnership with Taraba to unlock economic potential

The Federal Government has strongly reaffirmed its dedication to partnering with Taraba State, aiming to unlock the region's substantial economic potential across key sectors like agriculture, energy, tourism, and mineral resources. This commitment was highlighted during the gala night celebrating Taraba State's 35th anniversary and the official launch of the Taraba Regional Development Master Plan in Jalingo.

Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, conveyed President Bola Tinubu's greetings, emphasizing that the anniversary provided a crucial moment to celebrate past progress and chart a clear course for the future. He lauded Governor Agbu Kefas for adopting a long-term development framework, stating that the Master Plan's success hinges on sustained implementation and its tangible impact on citizens' lives. "The success of this Master Plan will not be measured by the ceremony at which it is unveiled, but by the roads built, businesses created, jobs generated, communities connected and lives improved," Idris remarked.

Idris described Taraba as a promising economic frontier in Nigeria, rich with opportunities in agriculture, agro-processing, livestock, hydropower, tourism, manufacturing, and mineral development. He specifically praised the Kefas administration's investments in education, healthcare, infrastructure, security, and economic development, particularly the policy of free and compulsory primary and secondary education. Evidence of this commitment includes the allocation of over N1.8 billion in 2026 to cover examination registration fees for public school students.

Significant financial backing for Taraba's development was also noted, with approximately $268 million in financing agreements signed with the ECOWAS Bank for Investment and Development. These agreements are earmarked for an integrated industrial park, a 10,000-hectare irrigated rice production and processing project, and a 50-megawatt solar power plant in Jalingo. The minister stressed that such initiatives are vital for converting the state's natural advantages into tangible production, value addition, employment, and sustainable economic growth.

Complementing the state's efforts, the Tinubu administration is advancing major federal infrastructure projects in Taraba. These include critical road networks such as the Gembu–Mbamnga–Yang (Lip) Road, the Bali–Serti–Gashaka–Gembu Road, and interventions along the Jalingo–Mutum Biyu–Tella–Wukari corridor, alongside further work on the Mayo Selbe–Gembu, Mutum Biyu–Garba Chede, and Jalingo–Numan roads. Idris underscored that these are more than just roads; they represent investments in connectivity, trade, tourism, agriculture, security, and the essential movement of people and goods.

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The success of this Master Plan will not be measured by the ceremony at which it is unveiled, but by the roads built, businesses created, jobs generated, communities connected and lives improved.