Jalingo Times.

By Jako, Jalingo Troops of the 6 Brigade, Nigerian Army / Sector 3 Operation Whirl Stroke (OPWS), have destroyed a major bandits’ camp in Takum Local Government Area of Taraba State as part of ongoing clearance operations under Operation Lafiya Nakowa. The operation, conducted on Friday, 31 October 2025, followed credible intelligence on the movement and activities of bandits around Unom, Yongogba, Tornyi, and Mbayongo villages in Takum. Acting on the tip-off, the troops embarked on a clearance patrol through Tor-Tser, Kofar Ahmadu, Tornyi, Unom, Mbayongo, and Yongogba communities, effectively clearing the identified areas and surrounding settlements. According to a statement by Lieutenant Umar Muhammad, Acting Assistant Director, Army Public Relations, 6 Brigade Nigerian Army, the troops received fresh intelligence during the patrol at Kofar Ahmadu village that bandits had been sighted around TY Farm in Tati. The soldiers immediately advanced toward the area th...

By Jako From the quiet settlement of Bandawa Gwenzu in Karim Lamido Local Government Area of Taraba State emerges a story of grit, grace, and uncommon perseverance the story of Hon. Benard Anthony Nuki, a man whose life journey from humble beginnings to national relevance has become a metaphor for hope and resilience. Born and raised in a modest farming family, young Benard’s early years were defined by struggle and determination. Under the dim glow of a kerosene lamp, he nurtured dreams that seemed far beyond his reach. Yet, through faith and persistence, those dreams are now taking shape in remarkable ways. A Journey Built on Resilience Benard began his educational journey at Bandawa Gwenzu Primary School in 1989 and later attended Government Secondary School, Karim Lamido, before completing his studies at Government Day Secondary School, Lau, where he obtained his Senior School Certificate in 2002. That same year, tragedy struck the death of his father left him with emot...

By Keke. The 6 Brigade of the Nigerian Army, in collaboration with other security agencies in Taraba State, on Friday, October 31, 2025, held a joint route march through the streets of Jalingo to strengthen interagency cooperation and enhance operational readiness. The exercise, organized by the 6 Brigade Nigerian Army/Sector 3 Operation Whirl Stroke (OPWS), featured personnel from the Nigeria Police Force, Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), Nigeria Immigration Service, Taraba Marshal, and the Nigerian Red Cross Society. Lieutenant Umar Muhammad Acting Assistant Director, Army Public Relations 6 Brigade Nigerian Army, Jalingo disclosed this in a statement issued to journalists in Jalingo,Taraba state. Addressing participants before the commencement of the march, the Commander, 6 Brigade Nigerian Army/Sector 3 OPWS, Brigadier General Kingsley Chidiebere Uwa, emphasized that the exercise was part of the Nigerian Army’s ongoing ...

By Keke. October 30,2025. The Taraba State Government has formally signed a contract agreement with Moulds Construction Nigeria Limited for the construction of the Wukari–Kente–Chinkai road project. The agreement, which was signed at the office of the Commissioner for Works and Infrastructure Development, Hon. Moseh Luka, in Jalingo, marks another milestone in Governor Agbu Kefas’s ongoing drive to expand infrastructure and improve transportation across the state. Speaking shortly after the signing ceremony, Hon. Luka explained that the 38-kilometre road project forms part of Governor Kefas’s strategic development initiative aimed at addressing transportation challenges and boosting economic activities within the southern zone of the state. He emphasized that the signing of the contract demonstrates the governor’s resilience and commitment to fulfilling promises made to the people of Taraba. Luka assured that the Ministry will closely monitor the project’s execution to ensu...

ByJako,October 30,2025. Taraba State Governor, Dr. Agbu Kefas, has fulfilled his promise to the people of Kurmi Local Government Area by remobilising contractors to resume work on key road projects in the area. The State Commissioner for Works and Infrastructure Development, Hon. Museh Luka, led officials of the ministry on an inspection tour of the ongoing road projects from Baissa to Abong to assess progress and ensure compliance with specifications. Speaking after the inspection, Hon. Luka explained that the visit was to confirm that contractors had resumed work as directed, following the release of funds by the governor. He disclosed that the contractors had been given a six-month deadline to complete the projects. “The governor has demonstrated strong commitment to improving road infrastructure, particularly in hard-to-reach areas like Kurmi. The Ministry will closely monitor the projects to ensure timely delivery and adherence to quality standards,” the commissioner s...

By Our Reporter The Spinal Cord Injury Association of Nigeria (SCIAN), Taraba State Chapter, has expressed heartfelt condolences to the Chairman of the Joint Association of Persons with Disabilities (JONAPWD), Taraba State, Hon. Ali Matudi, over the death of his beloved mother. In a condolence message signed by the Chairperson of SCIAN, Mary James Gaisa, the association described the passing of Hon. Matudi’s mother as a profound loss, not only to her family but also to the entire disability community in the state. “We recognize the deep pain that comes with such a loss and want you to know that you are not alone in your grief. Our thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time,” the message stated. The association prayed that God would grant Hon. Matudi and his family the strength, comfort, and peace needed to bear the irreparable loss. Late Madam Matudi is remembered for her nurturing spirit and support to the disability community through her son’s leadership...

By Kemuel Keke Moses Jalingo, October 29, 2025 In a bid to ensure a smooth and secure Local Government Election scheduled for November 8, 2025, the Taraba State Police Command has pledged robust security measures across the state. Under the leadership of Commissioner of Police CP Betty Enekpen Isokpan Otimenyin, the Nigeria Police Force has committed to providing a safe environment for voters, electoral officials, and the general public during the election period. In a press release issued on Tuesday, CP Otimenyin emphasized that all police officers in the state have been directed to maintain the highest standards of professionalism, vigilance, and dedication to safeguarding the democratic process. The commissioner assured residents that security forces will be deployed to all polling units and surrounding communities to prevent any disruptions. “The safety of the citizens is our priority,” CP Otimenyin stated. “We are fully prepared to handle any security challenges that may arise and...

By Kemuel Keke Moses Jalingo, October 29, 2025 Troops of the 6 Brigade, Nigerian Army, Jalingo, operating under Operation Lafiya Nakowa and Sector 3 Operation Whirl Stroke , have rescued a kidnapped victim, Alhaji Ali Adamu, from his abductors in Lau Local Government Area of Taraba State. The rescue, which took place in the early hours of Tuesday, followed a swift response to a distress call received by troops deployed in Lau. According to a statement signed by Lieutenant Umar Muhammad, Acting Assistant Director, Army Public Relations, 6 Brigade, the victim was abducted while sleeping outside his residence. Acting promptly on the alert, the soldiers launched a hot pursuit of the kidnappers. “On realizing that the troops were closing in, the criminals abandoned the victim and fled into nearby bushes,” the statement read. Alhaji Adamu was safely reunited with his family without any ransom paid. In a related development, local vigilantes and hunters patrolling around Ma...

By Keke,October 27,2025. In the ever-evolving world of healthcare and education, few names resonate with as much dedication, intellect, and compassion as Dr. Mrs. Dorcas Sirgawi Dugule, the newly appointed Acting Provost of the Taraba State College of Nursing and Midwifery, Jalingo. A woman whose life story is a testament to perseverance, passion, and purpose, Dr. Dugule’s journey from a humble beginning in Jen village to an international academic and health advocate stands as an inspiration to many within and beyond Nigeria. Born on March 6, 1965, in the serene community of Jen, Karim Lamido Local Government Area of Taraba State, Dorcas began her educational pursuit at LEA Jen Primary School, before proceeding to Government Girls Secondary School, Yola, where she obtained her General Certificate of Education in 1983. Her early interest in human care and community well-being guided her into the nursing profession — a decision that would later define her remarkable career. ...

By Keke.  “To serve, teach, and heal with purpose.” — That simple philosophy defines the life and legacy of Dr. (Mrs.) Dorcas Sirgawi Dugule, a distinguished nurse, scholar, and administrator whose decades-long commitment to healthcare and education continues to inspire generations across Taraba State and beyond. A Humble Beginning with a Purposeful Path Born on March 6, 1965, in Jen village, Karim Lamido Local Government Area of Taraba State, Dorcas Sirgawi began her life’s journey grounded in community values and faith. She attended LEA Jen Primary School before proceeding to Government Girls Secondary School, Yola, where she obtained her General Certificate of Education in 1983. Her fascination with caregiving and community service guided her into the field of nursing — a profession she has come to redefine through excellence, empathy, and education. A Lifelong Commitment to Care Dr. Dugule began her professional journey in 1992 as a Staff Midwife at the General Hosp...

By Martins Abochol Jalingo, Oct 27, 2025. (NAN). Dr Moses Arokoya, President, Nigerian Vetinarry Medical Association (NVMA) has said that 65 per cent of human diseases in Nigeria were livestock related. Arokoya made the declaration on Monday at the 61 Annual National Congress/ Annual General Meeting (AGM) of the NVMA held in Jalingo. He noted that zoonotic diseases were on increase in Nigeria, adding that 2.7 million lives were globally lost annually due to zoonotic diseases. He said that the choice of Taraba for the conference was strategic, nothing that a Disease Free Zone (DFZ) was to be established in the Mambilla Plateau. The president added that the eradication of diseases from Mambilla Plateau would cause the production of large metric tones of fresh meat. Arokoya said that more DFZ were needed on the country to make livestock production an economic stimulus. The president further decried the state of abbatoirs in Nigeria, adding that poor abbatoirs have enhanced mic...

By Jako, October 27, 2025. The Student Union Government (SUG) of the Taraba State College of Nursing and Midwifery, Jalingo, has congratulated the newly appointed Provost of the institution,Doctor Dorcas Dugule describing her emergence as a welcome development that brings renewed hope for greater academic progress. In a congratulatory message signed by the SUG President, Comrade Barde Omega, the students expressed optimism that the new Provost’s leadership would usher in a new era of innovation, discipline, and academic excellence in the college. While pledging their total support to the Provost’s administration, the SUG also proposed key areas of collaboration aimed at improving students’ welfare and academic performance.  Among the proposals were the establishment of scholarship schemes to reward students with exceptional academic results, the provision of transportation support for clinical and practical sessions, and the introduction of extra-mural lessons to assist...

By Jako, October 27, 2025. The Special Adviser to the Taraba State Governor on Christian Religious Matters, Very Rev. Fr. Sunday Patrick Muke, has called on Christian traditional rulers to lead with the fear of God as custodians of culture, morality, and faith. Fr. Muke made the call on Sunday during a worship service at the Aku Uka’s Chaplaincy in Wukari, which he attended alongside traditional rulers, clergy, and other distinguished guests. The service, which symbolized unity among Christian faithful, also had in attendance the former and current Chairmen of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) in Taraba State—Rev. Dr. Isaiah Jirape and Very Rev. Fr. Dr. Williams Awoshiri. Speaking at the event, Fr. Muke reaffirmed the need for believers to return all honour and adoration to God, “who alone holds supreme power.” He also conveyed the warm greetings of the state governor, His Excellency Dr. Agbu Kefas, to His Majesty, the Aku Uka of Wukari. ...

By Jako, October 27,2025 The 2025 National Convention of the Youth Wing of the Christian Association of Nigeria (YOWICAN) has ended peacefully in Abuja, drawing enthusiastic participation from Christian youths across the country. The one-day event, held at the prestigious National Ecumenical Centre in Abuja the Federal Capital Territory, brought together young Christian leaders, clergy, and stakeholders from all six geopolitical zones for a time of worship, leadership training, and strategic networking. The convention, themed "Shine Bright: Reflecting God's Glory" (Matt 5:6), featured impactful sessions, including spirit-filled worship services, powerful Exhortation, special prayer session and dedication and presentation of Buses. The event was graced by top CAN leaders including the National CAN President who was ably represented by the CAN General Secretary and the chaplain Ecunumical center and other top national leaders of YOWICAN, including Ambassador Belusochukwu ...

By Jako,October 24,2025. The Resident Pastor of The Healing Faith Church, Jalingo, Rev. Dan Usman, has charged Christians to cultivate a heart of gratitude, emphasizing that thankfulness remains a key to success and spiritual progress in the life of every believer. Delivering a sermon titled “Thank God for the Better Tomorrow” during a special thanksgiving service on Sunday, Pastor Usman drew his text from 1 Corinthians 15:57, reminding the congregation that those who walk faithfully with God are always secure and positioned to excel in life. He encouraged Christians to remain steadfast in faith despite life’s challenges, assuring them that God’s mercy and protection remain constant. “God always does new things in the life of a faithful believer who heeds His commandments,” he said, adding that gratitude to God opens doors to greater blessings. The thanksgiving service was organized by the Taraba State Chapter of the Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN) as part of activities ma...

By Jako, October 26, 2025 The Special Adviser to the Taraba State Governor on Christian Religious Matters, Very Rev. Fr. Sunday Patrick Muke, has urged Christians to cultivate humility and sincerity of heart in their relationship with God, warning that pride remains a major obstacle to divine mercy. Fr. Muke made the call on Sunday in a pastoral reflection drawn from the Gospel of Luke 18:9–14, which recounts the parable of the Pharisee and the tax collector  a story Jesus used to teach the essence of true righteousness. He explained that while the Pharisee prided himself on his religious deeds, the tax collector’s humble plea  “God, be merciful to me, a sinner” revealed the heart that finds favour before God.  “God looks not at outward appearances or social status but at the sincerity of the heart,” Fr. Muke said. “Pride builds barriers between us and grace, but humility opens the door to divine mercy.” The cleric urged Christians to live a life of humility, ...

By Jako, October 26,2025. It was a radiant day in Jalingo as friends, family members, and admirers gathered to celebrate a woman whose quiet strength and selfless service have touched many lives. The atmosphere brimmed with emotion and gratitude when Mrs. Susana Alfred Bala Kona was conferred with an Honorary Doctorate Degree in Humanity by the Dominion of Impact International Bible School, in recognition of her unwavering dedication to humanitarian causes and community development. The award ceremony, graced by distinguished guests and dignitaries, reflected a blend of academic dignity and spiritual thanksgiving. Representing the President of the institution, Ambassador Professor Daniel Solomon Patrick, PhD, was the Vice Chancellor of Taraba State University, Professor Sunday Paul Bako, who presented the honour to Mrs. Kona on behalf of the Bible School. In his brief remark, Professor Bako commended the recipient for her commitment to uplifting others and for e...

By Keke, The Dominion of Impact International Bible School has conferred an Honorary Doctorate Degree in Humanity on Mrs. Susana Alfred Bala Kona in recognition of her contributions to humanitarian service and community development. The award ceremony, held in Jalingo, was presided over by the Vice Chancellor of Taraba State University (TSU), Professor Sunday Paul Bako, who represented the President of the institution, Ambassador Professor Daniel Solomon Patrick, PhD. The event, which drew family members, friends, and well-wishers, was described as a fitting tribute to Mrs. Kona’s selfless service and moral uprightness. Speaking after receiving the award, Mrs. Kona expressed gratitude to God and to the institution for the honour, describing it as a call to greater responsibility. She pledged to continue promoting compassion, peace, and the welfare of others in society. In a congratulatory message, her in-law and House of Representatives hopeful for Ardo Kola, Ka...

By Jako,October 26,2025.  As the countdown to the 2027 general elections gains momentum, a fresh and dynamic voice has emerged in Taraba State's political landscape - Hon. Benard Anthony Nuki, popularly known as Mcnuki, who has officially declared his candidacy for the House of Representatives seat representing Ardo Kola, Karim Lamido, and Lau Federal Constituency.  In an exclusive interview with Jalingo Times Online, Hon. Nuki emphasized that his decision to join the race was driven by a deep sense of purpose to serve humanity and respond to the overwhelming calls from his constituents for a new kind of representation - one built on integrity, inclusion, and tangible development.  "I am in this race to serve humanity and make a meaningful difference in the lives of my people. We need a leadership that will translate their yearnings into reality," he said.  Highlighting the absence of tertiary institutions within the constituency, Nuki stresse...

By Jako,October 25, 2025 The Executive Governor of Taraba State, Dr. Agbu Kefas, has reiterated his administration’s commitment to peace, inclusiveness, and participatory governance, emphasizing that leadership anchored in prayer, forgiveness, and collaboration is vital for societal progress. The Governor’s message was delivered by his Special Adviser on Christian Religion Matters, Very Rev. Fr. Sunday Patrick Muke, who represented him at a Special Prayer Summit for Christian Politicians and Traditional Rulers organized by the leadership of the Christian Reformed Church–Nigeria (CRC-N) in Wukari. The summit, themed “Prayer, Forgiveness, and Collaboration: Keys to Kingdom Impact in Politics,” brought together political leaders, traditional rulers, and clerics for spiritual reflection and intercession for peace and unity in Taraba State. Delivering the Governor’s goodwill message, Rev. Fr. Muke stressed that “prayer strengthens leadership, forgiveness fosters unity, a...

By Keke,October 24,2025. The Chief Imam of Technobat Jumat Mosque, Jalingo, Sheikh Mohammed Babangida Aliyu, has called on journalists across Nigeria to remain steadfast in upholding truth, fairness, and accuracy in their reportage, stressing that responsible journalism is vital to sustaining peace and unity in the country. Sheikh Aliyu made the appeal on Friday while receiving members of the Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN), who joined the congregation for Juma’at prayers as part of activities marking the association’s 60th anniversary celebration. In his sermon, the cleric underscored the influence of the media in shaping public opinion and promoting social harmony. He cautioned journalists against sensationalism and false reporting that could incite unrest or undermine national cohesion. “Journalists must always say the truth and avoid publishing stories that could jeopardize the peace of our country. The pen is powerful, and it should be used to promote unde...

By Keke. The Taraba State University, Jalingo, has reaffirmed its commitment to complementing the Taraba State Government’s efforts in promoting cocoa and other tree crop production.  This follows a strategic partnership between the institution and a United States–based organization, Agroforestry Impact Regeneration (AIR), aimed at improving soil health and expanding the frontiers of agroforestry in the state. During a high-level interactive session held at the office of the Deputy Governor of Taraba State, a delegation of research experts from Taraba State University, led by the Vice Chancellor, Professor Sunday Bako, met with AIR’s principal, Mrs. Diana Doheny, and her team to deliberate on collaborative approaches to sustainable agricultural development. The partnership, facilitated by the Taraba State Government, is designed to promote modern agroforestry and silvicultural practices that will not only revitalize the soil but also increase the yield and quality of tr...

By Keke. When Professor Joash Ojo Amupitan (SAN) raised his right hand on October 23, 2025, to take the oath of office as Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), it was more than a swearing-in ceremony it was the dawn of a new chapter in Nigeria’s democratic story. His appointment, approved by the National Council of State on October 9 and endorsed by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, marked a historic moment: for the first time, the leadership of Nigeria’s electoral umpire would come from the North-Central zone. For many, it was a fitting recognition of both merit and regional inclusion. Born on April 25, 1967, in Ayetoro Gbede, Ijumu Local Government Area of Kogi State, Professor Amupitan’s journey from the quiet hills of Kogi to the nation’s electoral headquarters in Abuja is a testament to discipline, intellect, and service. After obtaining his National Diploma from Kwara State Polytechnic between 1982 and 1984, he proceeded to the University of Jos...