- Tinubu assures Taraba of inclusive national development
- Vice President Shettima delivers message at APC reception in Jalingo
- Gov Agbu Kefas formally defects to APC
- APC leaders say move will boost agriculture and infrastructure
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has reaffirmed his commitment to inclusive governance and balanced development across Nigeria, assuring the people of Taraba State that they remain a critical part of the nation’s growth agenda following Governor Agbu Kefas’ defection to the APC.
The assurance was delivered by Vice President Kashim Shettima at a grand reception in Jalingo on Saturday, where he described Taraba as a strategic partner in national development.
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“He has demonstrated that no region is expendable. No state is ornamental,” Shettima said, quoting President Tinubu.
According to the Vice President, the President directed him to reassure Governor Kefas that his decision to join the ruling party marks the beginning of a stronger partnership focused on infrastructure, economic expansion and social development.
“President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has asked me to assure you of your place, not only in the party, but in our shared commitment to prioritise the development of our people,” Shettima added.
Shettima highlighted Taraba’s importance to Nigeria’s food and energy security, citing its vast agricultural potential, water resources and mineral deposits as key assets to the nation’s long-term stability.
“Taraba is one of those quiet strengths, a land that feeds, powers and steadies the nation,” he said.
Welcoming Kefas into the APC, Shettima noted that the party thrives on inclusion and partnership, stressing that progress is achieved faster when governance is driven by cooperation rather than division.
The Deputy Senate President, Jibrin Barau, who represented the Senate President, said the defection would unlock new opportunities for agriculture, infrastructure and economic growth in Taraba, adding that the National Assembly stands ready to support deeper federal-state collaboration.
APC National Chairman, Prof. Nantawe Yilwatda, described the move as a catalyst for accelerated development, saying Taraba would benefit more from federal programmes by aligning with the centre.
In his remarks, Governor Agbu Kefas said his decision to join the APC was guided by the need to reposition Taraba for sustainable growth rather than political rivalry.
“This is about purpose. It is about the future of our young people and the progress of Taraba State,” Kefas said.
The event ended with the formal presentation of the APC flag to Governor Kefas, officially installing him as the party’s leader in Taraba State.