Jalingo Times.

By Jako,October 1,2025. Abuja – President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, on Tuesday, assured Nigerians that the nation has “turned the corner” and is now on a path of recovery, declaring that the sacrifices made under his reform policies are beginning to yield results. In a national broadcast to mark Nigeria’s 65th Independence Anniversary, the President said the economic pains of the past two years were necessary steps to rescue the country from collapse and reset it on a trajectory of sustainable growth. “The worst is over. Yesterday’s pains are giving way to relief,” Tinubu declared, commending citizens for their resilience and patience in enduring tough reforms such as the removal of fuel subsidy and the unification of foreign exchange rates. Highlighting key gains under his administration, Tinubu noted that Nigeria’s economy recorded its fastest growth in four years, with GDP expanding by 4.23% in the second quarter of 2025, while inflation fell to 20.12%, the lowest in three years. He...

By Jako,October 1,2025. The Special Adviser to the Governor of Taraba State on Christian Pilgrims Affairs, Hon. Deborah Mathew Seben, has called on Nigerians to use the Independence Day celebration as an opportunity to pray for the peace, unity, and progress of the country. In her goodwill message to mark Nigeria’s 65th Independence Anniversary, Hon. Seben felicitated with the people of Taraba State and Nigerians at large, stressing the need for collective commitment to nation-building. She specifically urged prayers for the administration of Governor Dr. Agbu Kefas, noting that his success would translate to greater development and prosperity for the state. “As we mark this day, let us unite in prayers for the success of His Excellency, Dr. Agbu Kefas, and for the peace, progress, and prosperity of our nation,” she stated. Hon. Seben reaffirmed her belief in the resilience of Nigerians and expressed optimism that the nation would overcome its challenges through...

By Our Reporter Plateau State Governor, Barr. Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang, has joined millions of Nigerians at home and abroad in celebrating the country’s 65th Independence Anniversary, urging citizens to embrace peace, unity, and collective responsibility in building a stronger nation. In a goodwill message on Wednesday, Governor Mutfwang described the anniversary as both a remarkable milestone and a solemn moment for reflection on Nigeria’s journey since independence. He said the day called for renewed commitment to national transformation that would improve the welfare and well-being of citizens. The Governor paid tribute to the nation’s founding fathers, commending their courage, resilience, and spirit of togetherness which laid the foundation for Nigeria’s sovereignty. “It is with pride and profound humility that I felicitate with patriotic Nigerians across the globe on this 65th Independence Anniversary. This milestone calls for sober reflection on our unity, peace, and progress as ...

By Jako,October, 1,2025.  Troops of the 6 Brigade Nigerian Army, in collaboration with operatives of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), have arrested two fake police officers in possession of vehicles loaded with cannabis in Taraba State. The arrest, which occurred at Takum Junction in Wukari Local Government Area, was made under Operation Lafiya Nakowa, a special operation aimed at flushing out bandits and other criminal elements in the state. According to military authorities, the suspects were intercepted while dressed in mobile police uniforms. Two Toyota Hilux vehicles they were traveling in were found loaded with 1,134 blocks of cannabis. Preliminary investigations revealed that the drugs had been transported from Akure, Ondo State, and were en route to Adamawa State before the interception. One of the suspects, identified as Monday George, a 71-year-old dismissed Police Assistant Superintendent (ASP), was arrested alongside Ezeugo Destiny Uche, age...

By Jako,September, 30,2025.  Members of the National Association of Nigeria Nurses and Midwives (NANNM) in the Northeast region have been charged to close ranks and support their leaders in order to strengthen the association and enhance service delivery. This call was made during the association’s zonal meeting held in Jalingo, which attracted delegates from the six states of the region. Zonal Chairman of NANNM, Comrade Jonathan Lanipi, commended state council chairmen for their commitment to the growth of the body. He said the meeting provided an opportunity to review progress, identify challenges, and chart strategies for the welfare of members. Lanipi applauded nurses for their resilience in delivering health services, describing them as indispensable players in the healthcare sector. He added that the forum was also designed to exchange ideas and proffer lasting solutions to issues confronting the profession. In his welcome remarks, Chairman of the Taraba State Cou...

By Keke. At just 42, Barrister Zaiyanu Usman has joined the revered ranks of Senior Advocates of Nigeria (SAN), the pinnacle of recognition in the country’s legal profession. His elevation is not only a personal milestone but also an inspiration to young lawyers across Nigeria who aspire to excellence in advocacy, jurisprudence, and public service. Born on February 21, 1983, in Yola-North Local Government Area of Adamawa State, Usman’s journey to the prestigious silk has been defined by resilience, hard work, and a passion for justice. After obtaining his Bachelor of Laws (LL.B) from the University of Maiduguri in 2005, he proceeded to the Nigerian Law School, Abuja, where he was called to the Bar in 2011 as a Barrister, Solicitor and Advocate of the Supreme Court of Nigeria. His quest for deeper knowledge led him to Bayero University, Kano, where he bagged a Master’s degree in Business and Commercial Law in 2014. Usman’s career path is as diverse as it is impressive. He cut his teeth ...

By Jako,September 29,2025. The Commissioner of Police, Taraba State Command, CP Betty Enekpen Isokpan Otimenyin, has warned officers under her command against extortion, harassment, and other unprofessional conduct that undermine public trust in the police. The CP issued the warning during a strategic meeting with Area Commanders, Divisional Police Officers (DPOs), Tactical Commanders, and Heads of Departments, held in Jalingo in line with the directive of the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun. ASP James Lashen Saminu, Police Public Relations Officer, signed the statement on behalf of the Commissioner of Police. She emphasized that officers must refrain from indiscriminate arrests, incivility towards members of the public, and meddling in purely civil matters such as land disputes, tenancy issues, inheritance, debt recovery, contractual breaches, and domestic disagreements. She reminded them that the core mandate of the police remains safeguarding lives and prope...

By Jako,September 28,2025. The Police Service Commission (PSC) has expressed deep shock over the death of its former Chairman, retired Deputy Inspector General of Police (DIG) Parry Osayande, who passed away early Sunday in Benin, Edo State. Osayande’s death comes barely a month after the passing of another former PSC Chairman, Solomon Arase, compounding the Commission’s grief. DIG Osayande, described as an erudite and consummate police officer, succeeded Chief Simon Okeke, the pioneer chairman of the Commission.  He was appointed by then-President Goodluck Jonathan in April 2008 and served as chairman during a period the PSC credited with “rapid growth.” His tenure, according to the Commission, secured a Presidential approval for the construction of a befitting corporate headquarters in Jabi, Abuja, a legacy that still stands today. In a statement on Sunday, PSC Chairman, DIG Hashimu Argungu (rtd), described Osayande as “fearless, focused, and commanding,” noting that his leadersh...

By our correspondent Sept. 28, 2025.  The Taraba State Independent Electoral Commission (TSIEC) has dismissed claims by the All Progressives Congress (APC) that it was deliberately excluded from participating in the forthcoming local government elections scheduled for November 8, 2025. The APC, in a media report, alleged that the commission rejected its list of candidates for chairmanship and councillorship positions across the state. The party’s chairman, Barr. Ibrahim El-Sudi, accused TSIEC of bias, alleging collusion with the ruling People’s Democratic Party (PDP) to sideline opposition voices. He further threatened legal action if the decision was not reversed. But in a statement issued on Sunday and signed by the commission’s secretary, Barr. Eyamu Yaro, TSIEC said the allegations were “false, mischievous and laughable.” According to Yaro, the APC had been part of all deliberations and planning since the release of the election guidelines. He recalled that on June 11, 2025, th...

By Jako, September 28,2025.  The Taraba State Police Command has announced the arrest of a 31-year-old man in possession of an illegal firearm in Karim-Lamido Local Government Area. The Command’s Public Relations Officer, ASP James Lashen Saminu, disclosed in a statement with Ref No. CZ:5650/TRS/SHQ/PPRO/VOL.T/66, dated September 27, 2025, that the arrest followed intensified security measures in the area. According to the statement, at about 5:45 p.m. on Saturday, operatives of the 40 Police Mobile Force (PMF) Jalingo, led by ASP Bitrus Benson, intercepted the suspect, identified as Gali Yunana of Munga Doso village, during a stop-and-search operation at Munga Lelau. A search conducted on the suspect led to the recovery of a British Beretta pistol with an erased breach number and two live rounds of ammunition. During interrogation, Yunana reportedly confessed that the firearm belonged to his late brother, Odoji Yunana. Police authorities confirmed that the case is unde...

By Jako.  The Village Head of Appawa in Lau Local Government Area, Chief Bethuel Sannu, has appealed to government at all levels to address the challenges facing farmers at the grassroots, particularly the high cost of agricultural inputs. Speaking in an interview, the traditional ruler noted that while the recent drop in the prices of farm produce is a welcome development for consumers, it has left farmers bearing huge losses. He explained that during the planting season, the prices of essential inputs such as fertilizer, chemicals, insecticides, and seeds were high, making farming more expensive. “Government policies that reduce the prices of farm commodities are good, but there must also be deliberate efforts to subsidize farm inputs,” Sannu said. He further suggested that government could procure inputs and distribute them to farmers at the right time to enable them cultivate their crops without delay. The Village Head warned that unless urgent measures are taken, many smallhol...

As the world joins hands to commemorate World News Day, it is important to reflect on the indispensable role of news in shaping societies, strengthening democracy, and safeguarding truth. News is more than just headlines; it is the lifeline of informed decision-making. In every corner of the world, it connects communities, gives voice to the voiceless, and holds those in authority accountable. Without credible news, misinformation would thrive, leaving citizens vulnerable to manipulation and ignorance. The significance of news lies in its power to educate, enlighten, and empower. For the farmer in a rural village, access to news provides vital updates on weather, markets, and government policies. For students, it broadens horizons beyond the classroom, helping them understand the realities of the world. For leaders, it serves as both a mirror and a check, reminding them of their responsibilities to the people. In Nigeria, the role of news has been especially crucial in uniting a divers...

By Jako,September 28,2025.  The Special Adviser to the Governor of Taraba State on Christian Religious Matters, Very Rev. Fr. Sunday Patrick Muke, has called on Christians to embrace compassion and extend care to the poor and vulnerable in society. Delivering his Sunday message on September 28, 2025, Fr. Muke drew inspiration from the Gospel of Luke 16:19–31, which recounts the story of the rich man and Lazarus. He noted that the passage serves as a powerful reminder that true wealth lies not in material possessions, but in love, mercy, and service to others. “The rich man lived in comfort, yet failed to notice the suffering Lazarus at his gate. In the end, it was not his riches that defined him, but his neglect of a brother in need,” Fr. Muke stated. He urged Christians to use their blessings in ways that uplift the less privileged, stressing that acts of kindness today translate to eternal treasures. “This Sunday, let us remember the Lazaruses at our gates, the poor and the vulne...

By Jako,September 27,2025. Preparations for the maiden Northeast Conference of the Youth Wing of the Christian Association of Nigeria (YOWICAN) are in top gear as the Finance Committee embarks on courtesy visits to prominent personalities in Taraba State to solicit support for the historic event. Leading the delegation, the Chairman of the Finance Committee, Rev. Dr. Princewill Ezra Solomon, said the visits were necessary to Inform to prominent personalities as they work to ensure the success of the conference. The first point of call was Rt. Hon. Deacon Abel Peter Diah, member representing Mbamnga Constituency in the Taraba State House of Assembly and former Speaker of the House. Rev. Dr. Solomon recalled Diah’s active role during a previous choristers’ conference in Jalingo, describing him as a passionate supporter of the gospel. He commended his continuous contributions to the propagation of Christianity. Echoing the sentiment, YOWICAN Northeast Zonal Chairman, Evangelist Ephesian J...

By Our Correspondent JALINGO – Dr. Clifford Yubsih Menchak and his family have announced plans for a special thanksgiving service to celebrate two remarkable milestones: the successful completion of his Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) degree and his survival of a ghastly motor accident. The event is scheduled to take place on Sunday, October 5, 2025, at 9 a.m. at the Redeemed People’s Mission, located opposite the Central Bank of Nigeria along Barde Way, Jalingo. In a statement of invitation, Dr. Menchak expressed deep gratitude to God for sparing his life in the accident and for granting him the grace to complete his academic pursuit, which he described as a life-long dream. The thanksgiving service is expected to draw family members, friends, colleagues, and well-wishers from within and outside Taraba State, who will join the Menchak family in offering praises to God. According to the family, the occasion will not only be a time of celebration but also of reflect...

By our correspondent. The Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has declared open the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) 2025 Batch B, Stream II Orientation Course at the NYSC Permanent Orientation Camp in Okada, Ovia North-East Local Government Area. Represented by the Functioning Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Youth and Humanitarian Affairs, Aiyegbeni Balogun, the governor described Edo as a land of rich culture, history, and opportunities. He assured corps members of his administration’s commitment to their welfare, safety, and security. Okpebholo urged the corps members to approach their service year with innovation, adaptability, and excellence, stressing that the Skills Acquisition and Entrepreneurship Development (SAED) Programme was designed to equip them with skills to thrive in today’s global economy. “We believe that you, as young Nigerians with enthusiasm, creativity, and eagerness to learn, possess qualities that can leave an indelible mark on Edo State,” he sai...

By Jako,September 27,2025. Taraba Agro-Climatic Resilience in Semi-Arid Landscapes (ACReSAL) has commenced the bidding process for the Bobboji stormwater and flood control project in Jalingo. The bidding session, held at the ACReSAL Secretariat, drew ten construction firms vying for the World Bank–assisted project designed to address persistent flooding and stormwater challenges in the Bobboji community. Declaring the session open, the Commissioner for Environment and Climate Change and Chairperson of the ACReSAL Steering Committee, Hajia Aisha Barde, said the project would provide lasting relief to residents who have endured years of flooding. She assured participants of transparency, accountability, and fairness throughout the process. Speaking on behalf of the ACReSAL Project Coordinator, Alhaji Dahiru Umar commended the contractors for their orderly participation and reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to a transparent evaluation process before the final selection. ...

By Jako,September, 27,2025.  In continuation of its peace campaign across Taraba State, the Advocate for Peace and Nation Building Initiative has taken its sensitization drive to schools in Jalingo. Led by its Chairman, Comrade Gibson Timothy, the group visited Government Day Secondary School, Sabongari; Magami Government Day Secondary School; and Good Success Academy, Jalingo. Speaking to students, Comrade Timothy emphasized the need for young people to serve as ambassadors of peace. He noted that harmonious living remains vital for societal progress and urged students to shun acts capable of undermining stability. “As future leaders, you must champion the cause of peace by obeying laws and distancing yourselves from activities that threaten the unity of our society,” he said. The chairman also commended Governor Agbu Kefas for prioritizing peace in the state and pledged the group’s support for the government’s efforts. On the ongoing Continuous Voter Registration (CVR...

By our correspondent. The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Plateau State Council, has commended Stallion Times Media Services for organizing a training session on the ethical use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in journalism. Chairman of the council, Ayuku Pwaspo, described the initiative as timely, noting that AI has become an inevitable tool in modern newsrooms. She urged journalists to deepen their understanding of AI applications, particularly in relation to copyright and public trust, stressing that practitioners must remain guided by the ethics of the profession. Pwaspo expressed optimism that the training would equip participants to better serve the public interest, which she described as the “primary responsibility of journalism.” In his remarks, Editor-in-Chief of Stallion Times, Isiyaku Ahmed, underscored the need for journalists to embrace technology as the world evolves rapidly. Delivering a lecture on “Artificial Intelligence and Ethical Consideration in the Newsroom,” ...

. By Jako The Chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Taraba State Chapter, Reverend Williams Awoshiri, has laid the foundation stone for the proposed Bible Society of Nigeria (BSN) Guest House in Jalingo. The ceremony, which drew Christian leaders and stakeholders, was initiated under the leadership of the BSN Taraba State Chairperson, Dr. Filister Irarimam Musa. In his remarks, Rev. Awoshiri commended Dr. Musa and her team for their resilience and foresight, describing the project as a milestone that would strengthen evangelism and aid the propagation of the gospel. Also speaking, the Special Adviser to Governor Agbu Kefas on Christian Religious Matters, Very Rev. Fr. Patrick Muke, lauded the BSN leadership for the initiative. He assured that the state government would provide the necessary support for the timely completion of the project. Citing 1 Corinthians 3, he emphasized that any foundation laid on God would endure, before offering prayers for the su...

By our correspondent,Bali, Taraba State September 25, 2025. Farmers in Judai community, Bali Local Government Area, have raised concern over levies allegedly imposed on them by their village head. Some of the farmers, who spoke to our Bali zonal correspondent on condition of anonymity, alleged that the traditional leaders demanded either two bags of melon or a cash payment of ₦100,000 from each farmer in the area. They described the demand as disturbing and burdensome, particularly at a time when both food and cash crop prices have dropped across the country. According to the farmers, the situation is worsening their economic challenges. They appealed to the Kuru Jibu Chiefdom, under the leadership of His Royal Highness Abubakar Mahmoud, to intervene and protect them from what they described as unfair treatment by village and district heads. However, when contacted, the Village Head of Judai in Kusum Ward, Adamu Bandi Judai, dismissed the claims. He ...

‎By Hamza,Jalingo. ‎Taraba State University (TSU) Jalingo is witnessing a remarkable transformation under the leadership of its Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Sunday Paul Bako, whose administration is redefining the institution’s academic, sporting, and infrastructural landscape. ‎ ‎Prof. Bako, described as a forward-thinking and innovative leader, has continued to introduce strategic reforms aimed at positioning TSU among the top-ranking universities in Nigeria. ‎ ‎One of the landmark projects of his tenure is the completion of a modern gymnasium hall, fully equipped with facilities for indoor sporting activities such as table tennis, lawn tennis, badminton, basketball, volleyball, chess, scrabble, snooker, and gymnastics. The facility is expected to promote wellness, teamwork, and healthy competition among staff and students. ‎ ‎In a historic move, the university is set to host its first-ever Pre-NUGA Games competition, with five universities confirmed to participate. The event w...

By our correspondent. Sokoto, September 25, 2025.  Usmanu Danfodiyo University, Sokoto (UDUS), has inducted 37 graduates of its Department of Radiography into the profession, marking the university’s 6th induction ceremony since the programme was established in 2012. The event, held on Wednesday, September 24, 2025, at the university’s auditorium, was conducted in partnership with the Radiographers Registration Board of Nigeria (RRBN). Representing the Vice Chancellor, the Deputy Vice Chancellor (Research, Innovation & Development), praised the graduands for their perseverance, describing them as “ambassadors of excellence” who are expected to uphold the ethics of the profession. > “You are stepping into a profession that demands accuracy, compassion, and integrity. The university is proud of the standards you have attained, and we trust that you will distinguish yourselves as professionals of repute,” he said. Head of the Department of Radiography, Dr Mohammed Abacha, comme...

By Jako,September 25,2025. The Executive Director of the Women of Valour Initiative for Development and Empowerment (WOVAIDE), Mrs. Sarah David Ibi, has thrown her weight behind the proposed Reserved Seats for Women Bill, describing it as a historic step toward gender equity and balanced governance in Nigeria. Mrs. Ibi, a former Chairperson of the TEKAN-ECWA Women Wing in Taraba State, said the legislation, if passed, would break systemic barriers that have long excluded women from political participation. She stressed that the proposal is not about tokenism but about creating space for women to contribute meaningfully to nation-building. > “The Reserved Seats Bill will give Nigerian women a stronger voice in politics. We cannot continue to sit back and watch; women must be part of decision-making processes that shape the future of this country,” she said, recalling her participation in a recent national campaign in Abuja advocating for the Bill. Citing examples from Rwa...

_From: Nigeria Association of the Blind, Taraba State Chapter_ Dear Sir, We write to bring to your kind attention the plight of persons with disabilities, particularly persons with visual impairment (the blind). Despite submitting several letters of appeal and programme proposals to the Ministry of Social Justice and Reintegration, we have not received any response or approval from your office. We therefore humbly request your consideration and approval of funding for our programmes. Every year, October 15th is observed as International White Cane Day for the Blind. This day highlights the significance of the white cane as a symbol of independence and empowerment for persons with visual impairment. It is also an opportunity for us to showcase our talents and celebrate our community. With your intervention and approval of funds, we are confident that this year’s celebration will be a resounding success. We would be deeply honoured if you could personally attend the event and witness the...

By Jako, September 24, 2025. Former Governor of Taraba State, Rev. (Dr.) Jolly T. Nyame, on Wednesday attended the Zonal Stakeholders Engagement for Northern Taraba, an event convened by the state government to deliberate on developmental and political issues affecting the zone. Nyame, widely regarded as a father figure in Taraba politics, described his presence as a show of commitment to the unity and progress of the state. Addressing the gathering, the former governor dismissed speculations on social media suggesting he had endorsed a candidate ahead of the 2027 general elections. He clarified that while his loyalty to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu remains unwavering, decisions on state leadership ultimately rest with the electorate. He urged Governor Agbu Kefas not to rely solely on stakeholders for guidance, noting that “some of them may not represent the true voices of the people.” Nyame also pledged to make himself available for consultation whenever needed, assuring Go...