Jalingo Times.

By Jako,July 31,2025. The outgoing executives of the Youth Wing of the Christian Association of Nigeria (YOWICAN) and the leadership of the Muslim Council Youths in Taraba State have expressed profound gratitude to Governor Dr. Agbu Kefas for the prompt payment of their allowances as Special Assistants. In a letter of appreciation jointly signed by Evangelist Jesse Ephesian JP, the immediate past YOWICAN Chairman in Taraba State, the youth leaders praised the governor for his swift and responsive leadership, describing the gesture as a morale booster and validation of their service to the state. "Your timely action has demonstrated your commitment to the welfare of your appointees, and we are deeply appreciative," the statement read. "This gesture not only lifted our spirits but also confirmed the value Your Excellency places on the contributions of youths in governance." The group commended the governor's inclusive and welfare-driven leadership styl...

By Jako. In a decisive crackdown on arms trafficking in Taraba State, troops of the 6 Brigade, Nigerian Army/Sector 3 Operation WHIRL STROKE (OPWS), in collaboration with operatives of the Department of State Services (DSS), have apprehended a suspected high-profile gun runner in Wukari Local Government Area. The operation, which was conducted around Ambassador Roundabout in Wukari, led to the arrest of 29-year-old Bulyami Shuaib, a native of Belango Village in Karim Lamido Local Government Area. Security sources describe him as a major player in an illicit arms trafficking network active in the region. A cache of arms and other items were recovered during the operation, including: 362 rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition, 1 round of 7.62mm NATO ammunition, ₦842,100 in cash,and One black Jing Cheng rubber motorcycle. Others are one Redmi Android phone,One itel phone Two silver rings,and One First Bank ATM card. Lieutenant Umar Muhammad,Acting Assistant Director Army Public Relations Six...

By our correspondent. Hon. Elder Philip Mago, a respected community leader and chairmanship aspirant for Lau Local Government Council, has officially declared his intention to contest the upcoming council election, unveiling a bold and inclusive manifesto themed “Peace, Unity, Progress: Building a Stronger Lau Together.” Addressing the people of Lau through a public release, Elder Mago emphasized his desire to offer transformative leadership rooted in peacebuilding, youth empowerment, quality healthcare, and sustainable farmer-herder relations. He pledged to bridge divides across ethnic, religious, and socio-economic lines to reposition the local government for inclusive development. Key Pillars of His Manifesto 1. Promoting Peace and Unity Among Youths Describing the youth as the bedrock of Lau’s future, Mago promised to initiate regular inter-community youth dialogues, sports competitions, cultural festivals, and summits aimed at fostering unity and civic responsibility. ...

By Jako. The Taraba State Council of the National Association of Nigeria Nurses and Midwives (NANNM) has declared its readiness to participate in a seven-day warning strike in line with directives from the association's national headquarters. The industrial action, scheduled to commence imminently, is in protest of what the association describes as the persistent neglect by both federal and state governments to address long-standing demands presented by the body. Key among the demands are the gazetting and implementation of hazard and uniform allowances for nurses and midwives across the states, the gazetting of the Nurses Scheme of Service as approved by the National Council on Establishments (NCE) in 2016 in Minna, Niger State, and the implementation of the National Industrial Court judgment delivered on January 27, 2012. Other demands include an upward review of professional allowances for nurses and midwives, employment of additional nursing personnel, improved prov...

By Jako,July 28, 2025 The Chairman of Lau Local Government Area, Hon. Nigeria Silama Jatau , has debunked claims made by the Yandang Youth Development Congress (YYDC) , which accused him of deliberately halting the turbaning ceremony of the Sanwi Chiefdom scheduled for July 26, 2025. In a strongly worded rejoinder released by the Office of the Chairman, Jatau clarified that the decision to suspend the event was not personal, but a directive from the Taraba State Bureau for Local Government, Traditional and Chieftaincy Affairs —the body charged with regulating activities in traditional institutions across the state. "I Acted on State Orders, Not Malice" – Jatau According to the statement, the Chairman merely relayed the content of an official circular dated February 19, 2025 , which suspended the installation of District and Village Heads in all chiefdoms under Lau LGA. The directive, the Chairman argued, also implicitly affected other traditional appointme...

By Jako, July 28, 2025. Captain John Datol of the 6 Brigade Nigerian Army Headquarters in Jalingo has testified before the Peace and Justice Commission of Inquiry investigating the recent crisis in Karim Lamido Local Government Area, revealing that his unit was ambushed by suspected Fulani herders in the area on May 12, 2025. According to Captain Datol, during the ambush, a piece of military equipment was seized by the attackers. However, he disclosed that the item was later recovered in the Wurboyi community, along with five motorcycles believed to have been used by the assailants. He further explained that in the process of recovering the stolen equipment, one of the attackers who opened fire on his troops was neutralized. A den gun and a locally fabricated pistol were retrieved from the deceased suspect. During cross-examination, Captain Datol identified Munga Lelau as the community most affected by the crisis. He stressed that the resort to self-help and vigilantism by residents on...

By Jako, July 28, 2025 The Chairman of Karim Lamido Local Government Council, Hon. Bitrus Danjos, has proposed the creation of a Special Development Area carved out of Karim Lamido LGA as a strategic measure to mitigate recurring security challenges in the region. Danjos made the suggestion while testifying before the Peace and Justice Commission of Inquiry into the recent Karim Lamido crisis, currently sitting in Jalingo. He told the Commission that Karim Lamido is the largest local government area in Taraba State, with over 300 communities scattered across difficult terrains, making security management particularly challenging. According to him, the vast size and complexity of the area significantly contribute to the difficulties in responding swiftly to outbreaks of violence. The Chairman lamented that the monthly running cost allocated to the council is grossly insufficient to facilitate regular movement and rapid deployment of security personnel during emergencies. Sin...

By Ezekiel Apaji Dorowa | Lagos, Nigeria In a time when global cultures are colliding and indigenous identities are slowly fading, the Jukun people of Nigeria face a pivotal question: how do we hold on to who we are without being left behind? The Jukun identity—rich in tradition, symbolism, and ancestral wisdom—is silently eroding under the weight of modern influences and a system that sometimes makes its people feel like tenants in their own land. Yet, there is hope. Across homes, schools, festivals, and digital spaces, there is a growing call to not just preserve Jukun culture—but to revive it. And it starts with a bold vision: bringing culture back into the classroom. “Every proverb, every game, every drumbeat carries a story,” says a Jukun elder in Wukari, as he recalls tales told under moonlight in his youth. That is the kind of learning today’s generation is missing—one that blends knowledge with soul. Imagine cultural nights in schools where elders retell ancestral s...

By Jako,July 28, 2025. As political activities ahead of the 2025 local government elections intensify in Taraba State, the Lau Youth Round Table, a coalition of forward-thinking and development-driven young people, has officially endorsed Hon. Steve Innocent Solomon as its preferred candidate for the Chairmanship of Lau Local Government Area. In a statement jointly signed by Comrade Babangida Tambata Bujum, Chairman, and Comrade Zamani Waziri Hamuel, Secretary, the group described Solomon as a visionary leader with the track record, passion, and competence to reposition Lau for accelerated growth and inclusive development. “Hon. Steve Innocent Solomon represents leadership with purpose. He is a man who listens to the people, understands our challenges, and has the blueprint to address them,” the statement read. Highlighting his achievements in community service and advocacy, the group lauded Solomon’s commitment to tackling key development issues, including infrastructure, ...

By Our Correspondent, July 27, 2025 A prominent legal practitioner and public interest advocate, Tanko Kyen-Emoh Danjuma Ambi-Usi Jr. , has written an open letter to the Minister of State for Regional Integration, Mr. Uba Ahmadu Maigari , demanding urgent answers and accountability over the stalled reconstruction of the collapsed Namnai Bridge in Taraba State, following the drowning of three women during a failed river crossing on July 25, 2025. The emotional yet pointed letter, titled “Namnai Bridge: An Avoidable Tragedy and Unacceptable Silence,” condemns what the lawyer described as "willful negligence and government failure" leading to the needless deaths of civilians who relied on unsafe canoes and planks to cross the river in the absence of a bridge. “The tragedy was not an accident,” Ambi-Usi declared. “It was the predictable result of federal silence and broken promises.” The letter recalls that Minister Maigari had visited the site of the collapsed Namnai Bri...

By Our Correspondent  July 27, 2025 The Chairman of the Youth Wing of the Christian Association of Nigeria (YOWICAN), North East Zone, Evangelist Jesse Ephesian JP, has issued a passionate appeal to Nigerian youths, urging them to avoid jeopardizing their futures by engaging in online wars in defense of political or personal interests. In an open letter titled “Don’t Block Your Future While Defending Someone Else’s Ego,” the youth leader cautioned against the growing trend of social media users—especially young people—attacking and insulting others under the guise of loyalty to political figures or influential individuals. “Social media never forgets,” Evangelist Ephesian warned. “The screenshots, comments, and insults you post today could resurface years later and cost you job opportunities, leadership appointments, or even your credibility.” He acknowledged the frustrations and ambitions of many young people seeking recognition in a competitive environment but s...

By Yerima Thomas Kenneth,July 27, 2025   The Southern Conference of The United Methodist Church has inaugurated a new Board of Evangelism and Discipleship, marking a fresh chapter in its mission to spread the Gospel and strengthen discipleship efforts across its districts. The inauguration ceremony, held today at Jatutu Memorial Cathedral in Jalingo District, was presided over by the Dean of the Cabinet, Rev. Dr. Philip Micah Dopah, FIMA. The new board replaces the previously dissolved team and is expected to revitalize the church’s evangelistic outreach and spiritual mentorship. Speaking at the event, Rev. Dr. Dopah expressed gratitude for the successful formation of the new board, describing it as the result of prayerful selection and discernment. “Glory to God, our promise has come to fruition today,” he declared, urging the new members to lead with honesty, prudence, and the fear of God. He commended the outgoing board for their dedication and service, and called on...

By Jako, July 27, 2025 It was a moment of joy and spiritual renewal on Sunday as Barr. Stephen Sunday  was officially ordained as a pastor at Faith Kingdom International Church, Jalingo. The event was attended by dignitaries from across Taraba State, including the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Chief Barr. GeeTee Kataps Ngwii, who represented Governor Dr. Agbu Kefas. Chief Kataps commended the celebrant’s commitment to the Gospel and reaffirmed the government’s dedication to fostering unity, peace, and moral values through partnership with faith-based institutions. Speaking after his ordination, Pastor Stephen expressed deep gratitude to the leadership of the church for granting him the opportunity to serve in God's vineyard. He described the moment as a fulfillment of divine purpose and pledged to continue proclaiming the Gospel of peace to the world. “The honor and support shown to me today is overwhelming. I am truly humbled,” he said, acknowledging the pre...

By Jako,July 27,7,2025. The newly inaugurated Chairman of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN), Jalingo and District Society, Abdulahi Aliyu Ibrahim, has vowed to uphold the core values of the accounting profession and contribute meaningfully to the development of Taraba State. Abdulahi made the pledge during his investiture ceremony held in Jalingo, where he formally took over as the fifth chairman of the district society. He described his new role as a call to service and expressed gratitude to members for entrusting him with the responsibility. He emphasized the need to build on the achievements of past leaders while unveiling plans to introduce innovative initiatives aimed at promoting professionalism, integrity, and excellence among ICAN members. In his remarks, Abdulahi also appreciated the Governor of Taraba State, Dr. Agbu Kefas, for his administration’s support to the accounting profession, commending the state’s commitment to transparency and professional ...

By Jako. A prominent Chartered Accountant in Taraba State, Rabo Usman, has called on the state government to make deliberate efforts to invest in the training and development of young finance officers to strengthen the state’s economic future. Usman made the call during the inaugural ceremony of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN), Jalingo and District Society, held in Jalingo. He underscored the critical role accountants play in driving economic growth and stability, emphasizing the need for proactive grooming of the next generation of financial professionals. Using Kano State as a model, Usman noted that the state has recorded significant success by sponsoring young individuals to become chartered accountants, with some even receiving further training abroad. He described this as a worthwhile initiative that Taraba State can replicate to build capacity and stimulate development. The seasoned accountant also encouraged finance professionals in the stat...

By Atanga Philip,Yola – July 27, 2025 The Adamawa State Monthly Sanitation Committee has apprehended more than 40 individuals across various parts of the state for violating the monthly environmental sanitation order for July 2025. The Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources, Madam Syngana Dadah, disclosed this during a media briefing shortly after the sanitation exercise on Saturday. According to Madam Dadah, the offenders were arrested for disregarding the government’s directive mandating the temporary closure of all business activities between 7:00 a.m. and 10:00 a.m. every last Saturday of the month. She confirmed that all defaulters would face prosecution in accordance with the law. The committee, which was joined by representatives from the state government, Federal Ministry of Environment, non-governmental organizations, security agencies, and members of the press, also used the opportunity to intensify public sensitization on the importance of e...

By Atanga Philip, Yola,July 27, 2025 The Director General of the Poverty Alleviation and Wealth Creation Agency (PAWECA), Dr. Michael Zira, has extended heartfelt congratulations to the Governor of Adamawa State, Rt. Hon. Dr. Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri, on his recent conferment with an Honorary Doctor of Science Degree in Public Administration by the University of Port Harcourt, Rivers State. In a statement issued in Yola, Dr. Zira described the recognition as a fitting tribute to Governor Fintiri’s outstanding contributions to public service and transformational leadership. “This prestigious honour is a testament to the Governor’s unwavering commitment to good governance, inclusive development, and human capital investment,” Dr. Zira stated. He praised Governor Fintiri’s administration for its impactful strides across key sectors, including infrastructure, education, healthcare, and empowerment initiatives targeting youth and women. According to the PAWECA boss, these achievemen...

By Jako, July 27, 2025 The St. Monica Cathedral of the Lutheran Church of Christ in Nigeria (LCCN), Yola, came alive with praise and reverence as clergy, congregants, and well-wishers gathered for a special commemorative service in honour of Bishop Theophilos S. Shadrach’s 60th birthday. The milestone celebration was led by His Grace, the Most Reverend Dr. Filibus Musa Panti, Archbishop of the LCCN, who officiated the thanksgiving service with spiritual depth and warmth. In his sermon, drawn from the Gospel of Mark 10:17–27, Archbishop Filibus reflected on the biblical story of the rich man who sought eternal life but struggled to part with his worldly wealth. He challenged worshippers to examine their lives and ask: “What is that one thing you cherish more than God?” He called on Christians to surrender fully to God, removing any personal idols that may hinder their spiritual growth. “Let God be the center of your life,” he urged, emphasizing the eternal reward of faithful...

By Jako. The Nigerian Army’s Six Brigade Headquarters in Jalingo on Thursday held a colorful farewell ceremony in honor of the outgoing Assistant Director, Army Public Relations, Captain Olubodunde Oni. The event, which took place at the C2C Conference Hall in Jalingo, brought together top security chiefs, journalists, colleagues, and friends who gathered to celebrate the service and contributions of Captain Oni. Speaking at the event, Commander of Six Brigade, Brigadier General Kingsley Chidiebere Uwa, described Captain Oni as a committed, diligent, and patriotic officer who approached his duties with utmost professionalism. “Captain Oni has stood out among his peers. His service here has been exceptional, particularly in the area of civil-military relations,” General Uwa stated. “Through his proactive and cordial engagement with the media, he greatly enhanced the visibility of the Brigade’s operations in Taraba State.” The Brigade Commander acknowledged that although rede...

By Jako,July 25, 2025. A Taraba State High Court sitting in Jalingo has sentenced four men to life imprisonment for orchestrating a staged kidnapping plot aimed at extorting ransom from the families of two young women. Justice Agya, delivering judgment in case number TRSJ/75C/2021, found the convicts—Prosper Paul, Samuel David, Nosiu Buba, and Samuel Kelvin—guilty of attempted kidnapping, contrary to Sections 4 and 5 of the Taraba State Kidnapping and Abduction (Prohibition) Law of 2019 (as amended). The case, instituted by the Taraba State Government in November 2021, centered on a fake abduction scheme masterminded by Prosper Paul. According to the court, Paul conspired with two young women, Miss Fyafyatirmam Andeterang (his girlfriend) and Miss Brenda Anthony, to simulate their own kidnapping in order to collect ransom money from their unsuspecting families. The plot saw Fyafyatirmam’s relatives pay N4 million, while Brenda’s family was pressured with a N10 million ranso...

By Jako, July 25, 2025.  The Peace and Justice Commission of Inquiry into the recent Karim Lamido crisis and other conflict areas in Taraba State has summoned eleven key individuals to appear before it in continuation of its investigation into the unrest. According to a notice issued on July 25, 2025, and signed by the Commission’s Secretary on behalf of the Chairman, the summons is made pursuant to Section 7 of the Commission of Inquiry Law (Cap 34) 1997. Those summoned are expected to appear before the Commission on Monday, July 28, 2025, at 9:30 a.m. at the Conference Hall of the Bureau for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, State Secretariat, Jalingo. The individuals include: 1. Bishop John Wesley Yohana of Jalingo 2. Haji Tashi Yau of Munga Dosso 3. Ladi Tashi Yau of Munga Dosso 4. Luda Tashi Yau of Munga Dosso 5. Luda Ali Yuguda of Munga Dosso 6. SP David Misa, Police Headquarters, Jalingo 7. ASP Linus Michael, Police Headquarters, Jalingo 8. Capt. John Datol, 6 Brigad...

By Jako, July 24, 2025.  The Mumuye Cultural Development Association Youth Wing (MCDAYW) has thrown its weight behind the Executive Chairman of Lau Local Government Area, Hon. Nigeria Silama Jatau, amid growing controversy surrounding the allocation of land near Lau Central Primary School to the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC). In a strongly worded statement signed by its National President, Ezekiel Augustine Hammangabdo, the association condemned what it described as “reckless sentiment and blind political fight” orchestrated by the group WINLAU, which recently accused the chairman of unauthorized land allocation. Citing the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended), particularly the Fourth Schedule, Section 1, the youth group emphasized that local governments are legally empowered to manage and allocate land resources for public interest,particularly in sectors like education, security, and community development. “As the Chief ...

By Jako. Gripping testimonies continued to unfold at the ongoing Peace and Justice Commission of Inquiry into the Karim Lamido crisis, with survivors and eyewitnesses alleging premeditated attacks and ethnic targeting in the May 23rd, 2025 massacre at Munga Lelau community. One of the witnesses, Shagari Jauro, told the Commission that he received a call from one of the suspected attackers before the assault on Munga Lelau. According to him, he immediately alerted traditional leaders and association heads, but the warning went unheeded. During the attack, Jauro said he hid for safety while several of his family members were killed. He added that after the killings, the assailants, suspected to be Fulani herdsmen, set homes ablaze, leaving the community in ruins. Another testifier, Shaama Ezra, painted a grim picture of the scale of destruction. He told the Commission that 42 people were killed, six houses burnt, and livestock valued at over ₦200 million were rustled. Ezra described the ...

By Jako, July 20, 2025 As the Peace and Justice Commission of Inquiry continues its hearings into the 2023 inter-communal crisis in Karim Lamido and surrounding areas of Taraba State, key witnesses have called for the creation of a separate Karimjo Chiefdom as a pathway to lasting peace. Appearing before the commission, Dr. Aliyu Bakoji Biko, a leading witness and prominent member of the Karimjo community, said the establishment of a Karimjo Chiefdom would provide the long-marginalized tribe with a sense of identity and belonging, which he described as critical to resolving lingering tensions between the Karimjo and Wurkum ethnic groups. Dr. Biko also recommended that the headquarters of the existing Wurkum Chiefdom be relocated to Mutum Daya, a Wurkum-majority settlement within Karim Lamido Local Government Area, arguing that the current arrangement has been a source of friction. During cross-examination, Dr. Biko attributed the root cause of the conflict to what he termed...

By Jako,July 24, 2025 —  The recent signing of the bill establishing the Disability Rights Commission (DRC) by Governor Agbu Kefas of Taraba State has been hailed as a historic victory for persons with disabilities across the state. Speaking on behalf of the disability community, Muhammad Sani Bello, Vice Principal of the Special Education Center, expressed profound gratitude to the governor for what he described as a “new dawn” for people with special needs. He emphasized that the establishment of the DRC marks a significant step towards inclusivity, equality, and social justice in Taraba State. "The commission will play a vital role in promoting the rights, dignity, and well-being of persons with disabilities," Bello said. "It will open doors to opportunities, improve welfare, and raise the standard of living for our members." He commended Governor Kefas for his visionary leadership and commitment to the inclusion of all citizens, regardless of physical or cogniti...

By Jako, July 24, 2025 In a renewed push to promote professionalism and uphold human rights within the Nigerian Army, the Army Headquarters (AHQ), through its Department of Civil-Military Affairs (DCMA), has organized a sensitization workshop for troops of 6 Brigade Nigerian Army/Sector 3 Operation Whirl Stroke (OPWS). The one-day event took place on July 23, 2025, in Jalingo, the Taraba State capital. Declaring the workshop open, the Chief of Civil-Military Affairs, Major General GU Chibuisi, emphasized the importance of discipline and adherence to legal and ethical standards, especially in the face of evolving security challenges. He noted that modern military operations place a heavy responsibility on troops to operate within the boundaries of the law while respecting the dignity and rights of civilians. “Respect for human rights must remain a cornerstone of our operations,” General Chibuisi stated. “This workshop is not only about operational efficiency but also abou...

By the admin, July 20, 2025 The Taraba State Chapter of the Spinal Cord Injury Association of Nigeria (SCIAN) has applauded Governor Agbu Kefas for signing into law the bill establishing the Taraba State Disability Commission, describing the move as a groundbreaking step toward inclusion and empowerment for persons with disabilities. In an official statement signed by the Chairperson of SCIAN in Taraba, Mary James Gaisa, the association expressed deep appreciation for the Governor’s commitment to the welfare of persons with disabilities, noting that the creation of the commission will help address long-standing challenges faced by the community. “This milestone marks a significant step towards inclusivity and empowerment for Persons with Disabilities in Taraba State,” the statement read. SCIAN also expressed its readiness to work closely with the newly established commission to ensure effective implementation of policies and programs that will improve the lives of perso...

By Jako, July 22, 2025. Leaders of the Youth Wing of the Christian Association of Nigeria (YOWICAN) from the North-East zone, led by their Chairman, Evangelist Ephesian Jesse, and the Taraba State YOWICAN Chairman, Dr. Job Julius, have paid a courtesy visit to the Chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) in Taraba State, Very Rev. Fr. Dr. Williams Peter Awoshiri, in Jalingo. The delegation said the purpose of the visit was to congratulate Rev. Awoshiri on his leadership and to formally identify with him as a spiritual father and mentor in the region.  The visit also served as an opportunity to brief him on the upcoming YOWICAN North-East Convention, scheduled to hold from November 6 to 9, 2025, in Jalingo, the Taraba State capital. Speaking during the visit, Evangelist Ephesian Jesse expressed appreciation for Rev. Awoshiri’s impactful leadership and ongoing commitment to the unity of the Christian faith in the state and region  “We are here to congra...

By Jako,July 22, 2025 A call has been made to the Member representing Ardo Kola Constituency in the Taraba State House of Assembly, Hon. Happy Shonruba, to sponsor a motion for the creation of three chiefdoms within Ardo Kola Local Government Area. The appeal was made in an open letter addressed to the lawmaker by Comrade Keke Moses, a peace journalist and advocate for good governance in Taraba State. In the letter, Moses urged Hon. Shonruba to take legislative steps towards the establishment of Kola Chiefdom (to be led by a Mumuye traditional ruler), Bakin Dutse Chiefdom (for a Kona ruler), and Ardo Chiefdom (for a Fulani ruler). Comrade Moses described the absence of any formally recognized First Class or Third Class Chief in Ardo Kola as a long-standing marginalization of the area’s traditional institutions, stressing that the creation of chiefdoms would strengthen local governance, foster peace, and uphold the cultural identities of the area’s diverse ethnic groups. > “Ardo Kola...