Article: Self-Development and Patriotism; A New Era for Taraba’s Public Service

By Emmanuel Iranyang Yakubu

As Nigeria navigates its journey toward national renewal, the concepts of self-development and patriotism have never been more vital. At the heart of progress lies the individual—the teacher, the civil servant, the artisan, the youth—each person with the power to build or break the future of our communities.

Self-development is the personal decision to grow. It is waking up each day with a resolve to improve your skills, mindset, discipline, and sense of responsibility. It is the foundation of leadership, productivity, and excellence in every sector—from the classroom to the boardroom, from the farm to the government office.

But self-development does not happen in isolation. It thrives when leaders lead by example, when systems are built to encourage growth, and when patriotism is more than a slogan—it’s a practice.

In Taraba State, we are witnessing a renaissance in public service, sparked by a visionary leader who understands that true development begins with people. Governor Agbu Kefas, in a bold and transformative move, initiated the retraining of all directors in state government agencies at the very inception of his administration. This decision is not only commendable—it is historic.

By prioritizing capacity building, Governor Kefas has sent a clear message: mediocrity has no place in Taraba's future. This action reflects a deep understanding that patriotism is not just about flying the flag or singing the anthem—it is about showing up for your country with competence, integrity, and a desire to serve better every day.

The retraining initiative is more than a workshop—it is a reawakening. It is a call for public servants to rediscover purpose, uphold ethics, and embrace innovation in delivering services to the people of Taraba. And in doing so, the Governor has also laid the groundwork for sustainable governance where merit and performance are the yardsticks for leadership.

As citizens, we must mirror this example in our own lives. Whether you are a student, entrepreneur, or worker, self-development is your patriotic duty. A nation is only as strong as its people. And a developed Taraba begins with developed minds.

Let us rise to the moment. Let us match the Governor’s vision with our personal growth. Because patriotism is not passive—it is active. It demands that we build ourselves so we can build our state.

Emmanuel Iranyang Yakubu is the Executive Director of the Taraba Youths Transformation Initiative, a climate activist, and a broadcaster. He hosts “The Patriots” on TSBS 90.6 Unity FM, Jalingo.

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