Jalingo Times.

 Christians have been urged to intensify efforts in spreading the gospel of God and to live lives that reflect the teachings of Christ in a rapidly changing world. The call was made by Pastor Barnabas Ayuba of the Evangelical Church Winning All (ECWA) Prayer House, Dangangang, Jalingo Local Government Area, during a sermon delivered at the ECWA Gospel Shavon on Sunday. Preaching from the Book of Matthew, Chapter 28, Pastor Ayuba reminded believers that the mandate to preach the gospel is a responsibility placed on every Christian. He stressed that evangelism remains central to the mission of the Church, regardless of the challenges of the 21st century. The sermon, titled “Mission Fire for the Twenty-First Century: Living as the Church,” emphasized the need for churches to prioritize soul-winning and strengthen commitment to the Great Commission. Pastor Ayuba lamented that certain negative practices, including selfishness, tribalism and undue sentiments, have continued t...

By Jako Keke, February 1, 2026.  Christians across Taraba State have been urged to embrace the virtues of humility, mercy and righteousness. The call was made by the Special Adviser to the Governor on Christian Religion Matters, Very Reverend Fath Sunday Patrick Muke, in a Sunday message to Christians to mark the beginning of a new month. In the message Father Muke encouraged believers to reflect on the Gospel of Matthew chapter five where Jesus Christ presented the Beatitudes as a guide for godly living and service to humanity. He noted that the teachings of Christ in the Beatitudes remain relevant not only to individuals but also to the collective life of the state, stressing that true greatness is found in service, unity and the pursuit of peace. According to him, by choosing mercy, truth and love, Christians can become living witnesses of God’s Kingdom within their communities and contribute meaningfully to societal harmony and development. Father Muke further call...

By our Correspondent. The Jalingo Branch of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) on Wednesday held its first Monthly Congress meeting for the year 2026, setting a decisive tone on critical issues affecting legal practice and justice delivery in Taraba State. The well-attended meeting took place at the Justice Adamu Aliyu Bar Center and commenced promptly at 10:00am with an opening prayer led by Pastor Sunday Sunday Stephen, Esq. In his welcome address, the Branch Chairman, Martin Milkman Karel, Esq, expressed appreciation to members for their commitment and active participation, describing the meeting as a strategic starting point for a purposeful legal year. Members subsequently reviewed the minutes of the previous congress, which were carefully scrutinised, amended where necessary, and formally adopted on a motion moved by Bar John Odekina and seconded by Vaatsav Benson (Lord Lord Ben), Esq. Deliberations under “Issues Arising” featured robust engagement, beginning with con...

By Our Correspondent Troops of the 6 Brigade of the Nigerian Army/Sector 3, Operation Whirl Stroke (OPWS), have intensified security operations against kidnappers and other criminal elements in Wukari Local Government Area of Taraba State, assuring commuters of improved safety on major roads across the state. The military action followed a swift response by troops to gunshots heard on Thursday, January 29, 2026, along the Kasuwan Shanu–Jootar Road near a Nigeria Police checkpoint in Wukari. Upon arrival, the troops discovered a Sharon bus with Lagos registration number LSR 445 XT, conveying nine passengers. The driver of the vehicle, identified as Mr. Abdul Amukama, a 45-year-old man from Makurdi, was found with a gunshot wound to his right hand. Preliminary investigations revealed that two passengers had been forcibly abducted by suspected kidnappers and taken into the bush before the arrival of security operatives. In response, troops of the 6 Brigade immediately launched...

By our Correspondent. A Senior Special Assistant to the Governor of Taraba State on Environmental Protection, Hon. Nuyeba Jila Bobga, has formally resigned his appointment, citing ideological differences with the current political direction of the state. In a resignation letter dated January 30, 2026, and addressed to Governor Dr. Agbu Kefas through the Secretary to the State Government, Political Department, Bobga expressed appreciation to the governor for the opportunity to serve in his administration. According to the letter, which was officially received by the Political Affairs Department on January 31, 2026, the former aide stated that his decision followed “a considered reflection” rooted in his fundamental principles and ideology, which he said have become at variance with the state’s political direction. Bobga explained that the decision was reached after extensive consultations and feedback from people at the grassroots whom he represents and serves. While appreci...

By Our Correspondent A renowned academic and public affairs advocate, Professor Jerome Nyameh, popularly known as The People’s Professor , has expressed deep sorrow over the death of Hon. Kallamu Alhamdu, describing the loss as a painful moment for the people of Zing and Taraba State at large. In a condolence message issued on behalf of himself and his team, Professor Nyameh extended his heartfelt sympathies to the family of the deceased and the entire Zing community, noting that Hon. Alhamdu’s passing has left a significant void. “On behalf of myself and my team, we wish to register our heartfelt condolences to the family of late Kallamu Alhamdu and the entire people of Zing over the death of one of its sons,” the statement read. Professor Nyameh prayed for divine comfort for the family and friends of the late Hon. Alhamdu during this period of grief, while also seeking eternal rest for the departed. He  committed the soul of the deceased to Almighty ...

By Our Political Correspondent A fresh wave of political advocacy has emerged in Taraba State, as prominent voices intensify calls on Professor Jerome Nyameh to declare his intention to contest the 2027 governorship election on the platform of the African Democratic Congress (ADC). In an open appeal circulated on Wednesday, Hon. Abdul Usman Gassol, a political advocate from Wukari, urged the former governorship aspirant and respected academic to heed what he described as a growing demand from across the state for a new political direction anchored on integrity, competence, and inclusive governance. Professor Nyameh, who contested the 2023 governorship primaries under the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), was widely regarded at the time as a reform-minded contender with a strong grassroots following. However, lingering internal crises within the PDP culminated in his resignation from the party in 2025, a move his supporters have consistently described as “principled.” Accordin...

By our Correspondent, January 29, 2026. The Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, PhD, NPM, has received the Executive Governor of Taraba State, Dr. Agbu Kefas, on a courtesy visit to the Force Headquarters in Abuja, reaffirming a shared commitment to enhanced security and public safety in the state. The visit, which underscored strategic cooperation between the Nigeria Police Force and the Taraba State Government, was attended by a high-powered delegation led by the governor. Members of the delegation included Senator Shuaibu Lau (Taraba North), Senator David Jimkuta (Taraba South), Senator Haruna Manu (Taraba Central), as well as members of the House of Representatives—Honourable Abdullahi Mohammed Lauwa, Honourable David Abel, Honourable Ayuba Zaku, and others. Also present were the Taraba State Commissioners for Justice, Information, and Finance. Speaking during the engagement, Governor Kefas commended the leadership of the IGP and lauded the Nigeria...

By our Correspondent, January 29, 2026. The Federal High Court sitting in Jalingo has set aside Executive Order Number Three issued by the Taraba State Government, which banned mining activities across the state. Delivering judgment in the suit filed by Newberry Nigeria Limited against Governor Agbu Kefas and others, the court held that the Governor lacks the constitutional powers to suspend or regulate mining activities, as mining falls within the purview of the Federal Government. The court consequently granted an order of injunction restraining the defendants from interfering with the plaintiff’s mining operations at Akwana in Wukari Local Government Area of Taraba State. However, the court upheld Executive Order Number Five, which is anchored on Section 42 of the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) Act and Section 14 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended). The court ruled that these provisions empower the Governor to take necessary measures to protect the environment a...

By our Correspondent, January 29, 2026. The Taraba State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has commended the ongoing electronic registration exercise initiated by the party’s national leadership, describing it as a major step toward strengthening the party’s structure. The State Secretary of the APC, Hon. Fidelis Francis, made the commendation while assessing the progress of the exercise in Taraba State. He disclosed that the initiative has been warmly embraced by party members, noting that Taraba currently ranks third in the North-East zone, behind Adamawa and Borno states, in terms of registration turnout. According to him, concerted efforts are being intensified to ensure that more members are registered, a move he said would give Taraba State a stronger edge in the near future. Hon. Francis appreciated Governor Agbu Kefas and the party leadership for their effective mobilisation, which he said has contributed to the smooth conduct of the exercise across the state. He a...

By Jako Keke, January 27,2026 Ahead of the planned movement of Taraba State Governor, Dr. Agbu Kefas, from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC), a comprehensive list of steering and sub-committees has been inaugurated to coordinate the event scheduled for Saturday, January 31, 2026. The high-profile political gathering is expected to hold at the Jolly Nyame Stadium, Jalingo, and is being widely described as a major realignment in the state’s political landscape. A Steering/Main Committee has been constituted to oversee the entire exercise, with former Senator Haruna Manu serving as Chairman. Other members include Senators Sani Danladi Abubakar, David S.U. Jimkuta, and Shuaibu Isa Lau, alongside key political figures such as Hon. Prince Ayuba Zaku, Rt. Hon. Peter Abel Diah, Hon. Danladi Baido, and Prof. Josiah Sabo Kente. Dr. David Ishaya will serve as Secretary of the committee. To ensure smooth coordination, several sub-committees have ...

By our Correspondent, January 27, 2026. The Honorable Commissioner of Environment and Climate Change in Taraba State, Hon. Aishat A. Barde, has expressed deep sorrow over the death of the Chairman of Zing A2 Stakeholders Forum and former Executive Chairman of Zing Local Government Area, Hon. Kallamu Alhamdu. In a condolence message issued by her office, the Commissioner said she received the news of Alhamdu’s passing with shock and sadness. Hon. Kallamu Alhamdu died in the early hours of Tuesday, January 27, 2026, in Abuja, Federal Capital Territory. Hon. Barde, fondly described as Zinariyan Mumuyawa , extended her heartfelt condolences to the immediate family of the deceased, the Zing A2 Stakeholders Forum, the Forum of Special Advisers, and the entire Mumuye race. She described the late Alhamdu as a man of peace, commitment, and selfless service, noting that he was a true son of the soil who dedicated his life to the progress, unity, and development of his people. Ac...

By our Correspondent, January 27, 2026. The Honorable Commissioner of Environment and Climate Change in Taraba State, Hon. Aishat A. Barde, has expressed deep sorrow over the death of the Chairman of Zing A2 Stakeholders Forum and former Executive Chairman of Zing Local Government Area, Hon. Kallamu Alhamdu. In a condolence message issued by her office, the Commissioner said she received the news of Alhamdu’s passing with shock and sadness. Hon. Kallamu Alhamdu died in the early hours of Tuesday, January 27, 2026, in Abuja, Federal Capital Territory. Hon. Barde, fondly described as Zinariyan Mumuyawa , extended her heartfelt condolences to the immediate family of the deceased, the Zing A2 Stakeholders Forum, the Forum of Special Advisers, and the entire Mumuye race. She described the late Alhamdu as a man of peace, commitment, and selfless service, noting that he was a true son of the soil who dedicated his life to the progress, unity, and development of his people. According to t...

By Andrew Ojih,  Jalingo.  A non governmental organisation (NGO),  leadtops development initiative on Wednesday trained  1, 500 Taraba youths on the roles young people play to drive meaningful change in governance in Taraba state.  The Executive Director, Leadtops Development Initiative,  Mr. Nicholas Oshojah Afeso while speaking during the training in Jalingo described youths as partners in governance. He hinted that youths constitute 75% of population in Nigeria and must must be directly involved in the business governance.  "Youths are important because they drive a significant or larger  portion of Nigerian population. Youths must participate fully to be able to takeover power from the older people" he noted. He stressed that the Youths must contribute as voters, community organisers, advocates,  volunteers, innovators, peace builders, policy influencers and as well as leaders of formal and informal space. "As youths, begin to...

By Jako Keke, January 27, 2026. The Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU), Taraba State University (TSU) chapter, has accused the Taraba State Government of persistent neglect, broken promises and disregard for agreements, warning that the patience of its members has reached a breaking point. The union made this known on Tuesday during a press conference in Jalingo, where it declared an end to what it described as prolonged silence in the face of government inaction. Speaking on behalf of the union, ASUU-TSU Chairperson, Comrade Garba Mbave Joshua, said the government had failed to honour critical commitments reached after the suspension of the 2024 industrial action. According to the union, one of the key agreements was the payment of N50 million monthly from February 2025 to address Earned Academic Allowances (EAA) and withheld salaries. However, ASUU-TSU said only a single payment was made in July 2025, describing the development as a “betrayal of the highest order” and a viol...

By our Correspondent, January 27, 2026. The Taraba State Police Command has held an interactive session for investigation officers across the state, aimed at enhancing professionalism and adherence to due process in line with the Administration of Criminal Justice Law of Taraba State. The session, which took place on Monday, January 26, 2026, at the Police Command Headquarters in Jalingo, brought together officers of the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID), Divisional Police Officers (DPOs), and Investigation Police Officers (IPOs) from various formations and units within the command. The interactive engagement was facilitated by the Director of Public Prosecution (DPP), Taraba State, AD Mustapha, Esq., who emphasized the critical role of thorough investigations, proper documentation, and the timely transmission of case files to the Directorate of Public Prosecution. He highlighted common shortcomings that often hinder successful prosecution and offered practical...

 The Commissioner for Social Justice and Reintegration, Filister Irarimam Musa, has reaffirmed the Taraba State Government’s commitment to the welfare and inclusion of persons living with disabilities. She described the agenda as a top priority of Governor Agbu Kefas’s administration. Speaking in an interview with journalists in Jalingo, Filister Musa said the governor remains resolute in creating an enabling and supportive environment for persons with disabilities across the state, stressing that inclusive governance is a central pillar of the administration’s social justice policy. Addressing growing calls for the inauguration of the Taraba State Disability Commission, the commissioner disclosed that concrete plans are already underway to actualize the commission, assuring stakeholders that the process is progressing. Filister Irarimam Musa who is the Yar Amanan Zing Chiefdom  appealed for calm among cluster associations and advocacy groups of persons with disabi...

By a Political Correspondent  The Kaka community of Sabon Gari Mbinti in Nguroje Ward, Nguroje Constituency of Sardauna Local Government Area, Taraba State, has formally endorsed the Member representing the constituency at the Taraba State House of Assembly, Hon. Nelson C. Len; Governor Agbu Kefas; and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for a second term in office. The endorsement was announced at a well-attended gathering in Sabon Gari Mbinti by the Wakilin Kaka of Nguroje and the Village Head of Sabon Gari Mbinti, who spoke on behalf of Kaka communities across the constituency. Kaka communities from Gurgu, Yelwa, Maisamari, Mbinti and Nguroje converged for the meeting, where they passed a unanimous vote of confidence on Hon. Len, Governor Kefas and President Tinubu, citing what they described as people-oriented leadership and tangible development strides. Community leaders noted that Hon. Nelson C. Len’s representation has brought visible benefits to the Kak...

By our Correspondent, January 26, 2026.  The Joint National Association of Persons with Disability (JNAPWD), Taraba State Chapter, has issued a passionate appeal to Governor Agbu Kefas to urgently inaugurate the Taraba State Disability Commission, warning that continued delay is deepening the hardship faced by persons with disabilities across the state. In an open letter addressed to the governor, the association commended Kefas for signing the Taraba State Disability Bill into law in June 2025, describing the legislation as a landmark step with the potential to transform the lives of thousands of residents living with disabilities. However, the group expressed disappointment that several months after the law came into force, the commission has yet to be inaugurated, with no chairman or board members appointed. According to the association, the absence of the commission has worsened long-standing challenges confronting persons with disabilities, including limited access to emplo...

By our Correspondent. The Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Information and Strategy, Hajiya Hauwa Ali Banu, has held her maiden ministerial briefing following her assumption of office, charging staff of the Ministry to embrace discipline, punctuality and professionalism in the discharge of their duties. Addressing Principal Officers and other members of staff, Hajiya Hauwa stressed the need for a result-oriented work culture, urging employees to demonstrate renewed commitment and dedication to their responsibilities in line with the Ministry’s mandate. She underscored the importance of collective effort and teamwork, noting that the goals of the Ministry can only be achieved when all hands are on deck. According to her, there is a pressing need to work assiduously towards restoring the lost glory of the Ministry while complementing the vision of the Executive Governor, His Excellency, Rt. Hon. Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri, CON, which is focused on repositioning the Civil Serv...

By our Judicial Correspondent. The Council of Legal Education has announced an extension of the deadline for the submission of application forms for admission into the Nigerian Law School for the 2025/2026 Academic Session, offering prospective candidates additional time to complete their registration. According to a public notice issued by the Council posted in a law Jurist Facebook page, applicants who are yet to finalize their submissions now have until Saturday, 31 January 2026, to forward their application forms. The notice was signed by the Secretary to the Council and Director of Administration. The Council directed that all pending application forms must be submitted directly to the Office of the Secretary to the Council and Director of Administration on or before the new deadline. It also stressed that the extension is final, warning that applications received after the stipulated date will not be considered in order to ensure timely processing of admissions. The extension is ...

By our Judicial Correspondent. The Nigerian Law School (NLS) has ushered in a new phase of leadership at its Lagos Campus with the formal assumption of office by Mr. Samuel Adedoyin Osamolu as Acting Deputy Director-General and Head of Campus. Mr. Osamolu took over the reins during a brief but significant handing-over ceremony held on Monday, January 19, 2025, at the Lagos Campus of the institution. The event marked a smooth transition in line with the school’s tradition of administrative continuity. His appointment follows the promotion of the immediate past head of the Lagos Campus, Dr. Olugbemisola Titilayo Odusote, who was recently appointed by the President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces as the substantive Director-General of the Nigerian Law School. Dr. Odusote’s elevation created a vacancy at the Lagos Campus, necessitating Mr. Osamolu’s assumption of office in an acting capacity. Until his new appointment, Mr. Osamolu served at the Nigerian L...

By Jako Keke, January 26, 2026. The All Progressives Congress (APC) e-registration mobilisation committee in Zing Local Government Area has been formally inaugurated, with party leaders and stakeholders outlining strategies to boost grassroots participation ahead of upcoming political activities. This was posted in a verified Facebook page of the Commissioner of Environment and Climate Change,Hon Aishat Barde. The inaugural meeting, held on Sunday, January 26, at the Government Lodge in Zing, brought together key figures including the Taraba State Commissioner for Environment and Climate Change, Hon. Aishat A. Barde, and the Executive Chairman of Zing Local Government, Hon. Prince Davoro K. Titus. Also in attendance were the committee chairman, Hon. Godwin Villana William, Hon. John Luka, Mr. Linus Ibrahim, and other committee members. Discussions at the meeting centred on developing practical ideas and effective strategies to mobilise citizens of Zing Local Government t...

By Jako Keke, January 26, 2026. The Spinal Cord Injury Association of Nigeria (SCIAN), Taraba State Chapter, has appealed to Governor Agbu Kefas to urgently inaugurate the Taraba State Disability Commission to enable it commence full operations. In a statement, the association expressed appreciation for his assent to the bill establishing the commission, describing it as a landmark step toward protecting the rights and welfare of persons with disabilities in the state. SCIAN noted that the law raised hopes among persons living with disabilities for improved inclusivity, accessibility, and equal opportunities. However, the association expressed concern over the delay in inaugurating the commission, stating that the situation has slowed down efforts aimed at addressing the challenges faced by persons with disabilities across the state. According to the group, the absence of an inaugurated commission has limited the effective implementation of policies and programmes designed to promot...

By our Correspondent, January 26, 2026. The Vice-Chancellor of Taraba State University (TSU), Jalingo, Professor Sunday Paul Bako, has received a National Universities Commission (NUC) Resource Verification Team for the assessment of facilities and manpower for newly proposed academic programmes in the institution. The exercise, which held on Monday at the University Senate Chamber, is a major step in TSU’s ongoing academic expansion and commitment to meeting national standards in higher education. Receiving the team alongside members of the university management, Prof. Bako described the visit as historic, noting that it was the first time under his leadership that the university was presenting such a large number of new programmes for verification. He explained that the exercise was designed to evaluate the availability and adequacy of infrastructure, academic staff, and other critical resources required for the successful take-off of the proposed programmes. The Vice-...

By our Correspondent, January 25, 2026. Residents of Piribi community in Kwanchi Ward, Karim II Constituency, have received a major boost in access to potable water with the successful commissioning of a community water source (well) in the area. The commissioning ceremony, which drew community leaders, women, youths and other stakeholders, was described as a significant milestone in efforts to address water scarcity and improve public health at the grassroots level. Speaking at the event, the Special Assistant on Videography to the Executive Governor of Taraba State, Hon. Jude Nuhu Gundale, expressed appreciation to Governor Agbu Kefas for the opportunity to serve in his administration. He said the appointment had given him the platform to contribute directly to the development and wellbeing of his community and the state. Hon. Gundale also commended the Member representing Karim II Constituency in the Taraba State House of Assembly, Hon. Anas Shuibu Didango, describing hi...

By Atanga Philip, January 25,2026. The atmosphere at Saint Monica’s Lutheran Church Cathedral, Jimeta, was one of deep reflection and renewed spiritual commitment as the Lutheran Church of Christ in Nigeria (LCCN), Yola Diocese, brought its convention to a close with a powerful call to action for Christians to live out their faith beyond the church walls. Clad in colourful traditional attires and church uniforms, members drawn from different parishes across the diocese converged for the convention, which centered on moral rebirth, unity, and Christian responsibility in a rapidly changing society. The event climaxed with a sermon by the Bishop of the Diocese, Most Reverend Theophilus Shadrack, who challenged believers to rise above complacency and actively advance the gospel of Christ through their conduct and commitment. Preaching from Matthew 8:13, Bishop Shadrack urged Christians to embrace steadfastness, resilience, humility, and total obedience to God, stressing that ge...

By Our Correspondent The reigning beauty queen, Miss Donga 2025, Her Royal Majesty Salvation Reuben, has strongly condemned the recent assault on a young girl, Terhemba Ewasem, describing the incident as inhuman and a violation of fundamental human rights. Miss Reuben made this known after paying a solidarity visit to the victim, popularly known as Charity, who was allegedly assaulted by one Mrs. Ramatu Abbas in Donga Local Government Area of Taraba State. According to the beauty queen, the visit was an emotional but encouraging moment, during which she offered words of comfort, motivation and love to the victim, assuring her that she is not alone and that justice will prevail. “I sincerely condemn this inhuman act and call on all security agencies and relevant government stakeholders to look critically into such occurrences and take decisive steps to prevent a recurrence,” Miss Reuben stated. She stressed that violence against minors remains unacceptable and called for str...

By Jako Keke, January 25,2026. The Special Adviser to the Governor of Taraba State on Christian Religion Matters, Very Rev. Fr. Sunday Patrick Muke, has called on Christians to remain steadfast in faith, unity and hope, urging them to reflect the light and love of Christ in their daily lives. Fr. Muke made the call in a Gospel reflection issued on Sunday, January 25, 2026, based on the passage from Matthew 4:12–23, where Jesus is presented as the light shining in the darkness amid trials and challenges. In the message, the cleric recalled Christ’s proclamation, “Repent, for the Kingdom of Heaven is at hand,” describing it as a call to sincere conversion and a change of heart. He noted that the message remains relevant to believers today, especially in times of difficulty. Reflecting on Jesus’ call of ordinary fishermen to become His disciples, Fr. Muke said the Gospel reminds Christians that God calls people as they are and invites them to respond with faith, obedience and ...

By Jako Keke, January 25, 2026. The 114 Battalion (Rear) of the Nigerian Army on Friday, January 24, 2026, held its maiden West African Social Activities (WASA) celebration at the Battalion Parade Ground, Jimilari, in a colourful ceremony marked by cultural displays, unity and military camaraderie. The event, the first of its kind in the history of the Battalion, brought together officers, soldiers, their families and friends in a celebration of tradition, esprit de corps and mutual bonding. Speaking at the ceremony, the Commander of 6 Brigade Nigerian Army and Sector 3 Operation WHIRL STROKE (OPWS), Brigadier General Kingsley Chidiebere Uwa, who served as the Special Guest of Honour, commended the Commanding Officer, officers and soldiers of the Battalion for their discipline, professionalism and dedication to duty. Brigadier General Uwa noted that the operational support, administrative and regimental roles of the 114 Battalion (Rear) remain vital to the overall succe...