Jalingo: The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, has attributed the agricultural development and substantial investments in Taraba to the improved security achieved under the administration of Governor Agbu Kefas. Idris made this statement in Jalingo shortly after Governor Kefas briefed newsmen on his stewardship during the activities marking Taraba’s 35th anniversary, which was themed ‘Celebrating 35 Years of Unity, Peace and Progress.’
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Idris commended Governor Kefas for the notable strides in security, highlighting that the enhanced security situation has fostered an environment conducive to economic activities. He noted that agriculture is flourishing in Taraba as a result of the secure environment created by the administration’s efforts. Furthermore, Idris praised the state government for its investments in the solid minerals sector, emphasizing that this development would create opportunities for young people, particularly women.
Idris remarked that the security situation in Taraba had markedly improved compared to the period before the current administration took office. He recalled that residents had previously been anxious about insecurity, which hampered movement and other socio-economic activities across the state. The minister emphasized that the improved security has restored confidence and allowed people to move around the state with greater assurance. He also expressed his intention to tour Jalingo at night to personally experience the level of security provided by the state government.
Idris urged the state government to continue building on the security gains rather than becoming complacent. He also called on the media to support efforts in tackling fake news and disinformation, which he identified as significant challenges facing the country. The minister appealed to journalists and other media practitioners to fulfill their responsibilities with professionalism and responsibility, stressing that media freedom must coexist with accountability, especially as political activities intensify ahead of the 2027 general elections.
He commended journalists for facilitating an opportunity for the governor to explain his administration’s achievements and respond to public inquiries. Idris also praised Kefas for personally addressing journalists and responding to their questions during the briefing, noting that the governor’s decision to stand for about 42 minutes while addressing the media demonstrated leadership and a willingness to engage with the public. He urged other public officials to emulate this approach in press conferences.
Idris highlighted that his role as Minister of Information extends beyond informing Nigerians about government activities to also receiving feedback from citizens. He joined the anniversary committee partly to gather feedback from Taraba and convey relevant issues to President Bola Tinubu.
Governor Kefas mentioned that the Federal Government under President Tinubu has provided his administration with the necessary support and freedom to implement federal policies into projects that enhance citizens’ lives. He stated that his administration has declared free education for primary and secondary school pupils to expand access to quality education. Additionally, the state government has been paying examination fees for students to alleviate the financial burden on parents and guardians.
Kefas noted that Taraba has benefited from improved security cooperation with the Federal Government, which has contributed significantly to greater stability in the state. He revealed that several projects have been completed while others are ongoing across Taraba, emphasizing that the President’s support has played a crucial role in his administration’s achievements.
The governor added that his administration has continued to pay workers’ salaries monthly and implemented the minimum wage as part of efforts to enhance workers’ welfare. He pointed out that the N30,000 minimum wage was not being implemented when he assumed office, but his administration subsequently took steps to implement it and pursue other policies aimed at improving residents’ welfare.
Kefas expressed optimism that the establishment of state police would further strengthen security and accelerate development, aligning with President Tinubu’s vision to advance the state.