Jalingo Times.

By Jako Keke, March 1, 2026. The Coalition of Civil Society Organizations in Taraba State (COCSOTS) has applauded the Governor of Taraba State, Agbu Kefas, for the historic establishment of the Taraba State Persons with Disability Commission. In a press statement issued in Taraba State, Nigeria, and signed by Bello Adamu Bako on behalf of the Chairman of the Coalition, the group described the constitution of the Commission as a landmark achievement that signals a new era of inclusivity, equality, and empowerment for persons with disabilities across the state. The Coalition noted that the creation of the Commission underscores the state government’s commitment to safeguarding the rights, dignity, and socio-economic participation of persons with disabilities. It emphasized that the initiative would ensure equitable access to opportunities and essential services for one of the most vulnerable segments of society. According to COCSOTS, the achievement reflects a collaborative e...

Officials of the Mile Six Youths Development Association (MYDA) have been formally inaugurated in a ceremony held at Mumuye House, Mile Six, Jalingo, marking a new chapter in youth-driven community development in the area. The newly sworn-in executives include Comrade Emmanuel James as President; Benjamin Hassan, Vice President; Augustine Habila, Secretary General; Sylvanus Sunday Audu, Assistant Secretary General; and Comfort Ismaila, Treasurer. Others are Sunday Ayo Clement, Financial Secretary; Sabastine Sylvester, Public Relations Officer; Gaddafi Salihu, Auditor; and Peter Emmanuel Tosin. Delivering a keynote message at the event, former Taraba State Governor, , urged youths to embrace vocational skills and entrepreneurship, stressing the need to become employers of labour rather than depend solely on white-collar jobs. Represented by Professor Jerome Nyameh, the former governor encouraged the young leaders to take advantage of opportunities that would enhance self-r...

By our Correspondent, February 28, 2026. The Heavy Duty and Haulage Transport Association of Nigeria (HDTAN), Taraba State Chapter, has dismissed as “malicious and unfounded” allegations of a purported N28 million diversion leveled against its State Chairman, Hon. Isa Nawe. In a press statement issued Friday, the Association described the claim as a calculated attempt to mislead its members and tarnish the image of the chapter’s leadership. Reacting to the allegation, Hon. Isa Nawe insisted that the accusation was orchestrated by individuals who are neither recognised nor registered members of HDTAN. He noted that the persons behind the claims had already been disowned by the Association’s National Leadership and therefore lack both the moral and legal standing to comment on the affairs of the Taraba State Chapter. “For the avoidance of doubt, our financial records are properly documented and transparently managed in line with the Association’s constitution and financial re...

By Jako Keke, February 28, 2026 After a decade-long silence, the broom is back in motion across Taraba State. The reintroduction of the Monthly Sanitation exercise by the signals more than just a routine clean-up; it marks a renewed commitment to environmental responsibility and civic discipline. Across major towns and communities, particularly in the state capital, residents turned out in impressive numbers to participate in the exercise. Streets once bustling with weekend traffic fell unusually quiet as vehicular movement was temporarily restricted to allow for thorough cleaning. The calm atmosphere created space for purposeful activity — sweeping, clearing clogged gutters, and gathering refuse. Our correspondent who monitored the exercise observed that compliance levels were high, with many residents stepping out early to tidy their homes and immediate surroundings. Sanitation workers deployed by the agency moved strategically across key areas, reinforcing the exerc...

By our Correspondent, February 28, 2026. The Governor of Taraba State, Dr. Agbu Kefas, has officially flagged off the implementation of the Resettlement Action Plan (RAP) and the construction of the Bobboji Storm Water Flood Control Project in Jalingo, alongside the declaration of the ACReSAL Unit into a full-fledged agency. The programme featured two phases: a field visit to the Bobboji project site for the formal flag-off of the Storm Water Drainage Control Project, followed by a main ceremony at the Jolly Nyame Stadium. At the project site, the Honourable Commissioner of Environment and Climate Change and Chairperson of the ACReSAL Steering Committee, Hajiya Aishat A. Barde, described the Bobboji Storm Water Project to His Excellency as a strategic intervention aimed at addressing persistent urban flooding, improving environmental sanitation, strengthening climate resilience, and enhancing adaptive capacity and sustainability within the Bobboji axis. The Worl...

Jalingo metropolis was brought to a standstill on Saturday as residents complied with the reintroduced monthly environmental sanitation exercise, marked by a temporary restriction of movement across the city. Streets that are usually bustling with commercial and social activities wore a quiet look as sanitation workers and residents turned out in large numbers to clean their surroundings.  Sweepers were seen clearing debris from major roads, while refuse collected from gutters and designated points was properly disposed of. Our correspondent reports that although the sanitation exercise is being revived after nearly a decade, residents demonstrated commendable compliance. Shops, malls and business outlets remained under lock and key throughout the exercise, contributing to the calm atmosphere across the metropolis. Major streets appeared visibly cleaner, with improved tidiness recorded in several neighbourhoods. Tricycle operators and bin carriers were also deployed ...

By our Correspondent, February 27,2026. The Special Adviser to the Taraba State Governor on Health Services, , has resigned his appointment to pursue an elective position in the 2027 general elections. In a resignation letter dated February 27, 2026, and addressed to the Governor of Taraba State, , Dr. Jedua said his resignation takes effect from Friday, February 27, 2026. “I wish to resign from my appointment as Special Adviser on Health Services under your administration, with effect from Friday, 27 February, 2026,” the letter stated. Dr. Jedua explained that his decision was informed by his desire to focus on contesting for an elective position in the 2027 general election. He expressed gratitude to Governor Kefas for the opportunity to serve in his administration, noting that he appreciated the trust reposed in him and the chance to contribute to the development of the health sector in Taraba State. “I want to thank you for giving me the opportunity to...

By our Correspondent, February 27, 2026. The High Court of Anambra state has asked Governor Charles Soludo of Anambra State to halt plans of demolishing the Onitsha market. Governor Soludo had announced plans to clear out the market shops at a recent meeting with community leaders, where he bemoaned what he termed the "deplorable state of the market". He stated that the market no longer attracts buyers like it did in the past. He thus said he would embark on a "painful" exercise to demolish the market to bring up to the standards of Taiwan. But in a swift move, the traders who will be greatly affected by the exercise rushed to the court to ask the governor to halt the move as it would inflict grave hardship for the traders.  Ruling on the petition signed by traders of Human Fence Zone One Line of the Onitsha main Market, justice J. I. Nweze urged all parties to maintain status quo as at today pending the hearing of the substantive suit which is scheduled...

The Taraba State Environmental Sanitation Agency TSESA  has announced plans to commence its monthly environmental sanitation exercise across the state, with movement restrictions to be enforced within the Jalingo metropolis. The Executive Chairman of the Agency, , disclosed this in an interview with our reporter, stating that all necessary arrangements have been concluded to ensure a smooth and effective exercise. He explained that vehicular and human movement across major streets in Jalingo will be restricted during the sanitation period to enable residents carry out thorough cleaning of their surroundings. According to him, the exercise will commence from 6:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m., urging members of the public to comply fully in the interest of maintaining a clean and healthy environment. The Chairman emphasized that the initiative is designed to promote environmental cleanliness and public health across the state. He added that the sanitation exercise will be held ...

By our Correspondent, February 26, 2026. The Heavy Duty and Haulage Transport Association of Nigeria (HDTAN) has firmly reaffirmed Mr. Isa Nawe as the duly recognized Chairman of its Taraba State Chapter, warning that any other individual laying claim to the position should be treated as an impostor. In an official disclaimer issued by the association’s national leadership, HDTAN emphasized that Nawe remains the only authorized person to act on its behalf in Taraba State.  The statement, signed by Murtala Mohammed for the National Secretary and Engr. Osigbemeh Emmanuel, National President and Founder, stressed that the clarification became necessary to protect the integrity of the association and safeguard members of the public. The association cautioned that anyone parading himself or herself as Taraba State Chairman outside Isa Nawe lacks legitimacy and should not be accorded recognition. Following the reaffirmation, HDTAN distanced itself from 13 individuals in the s...

By Jako Keke, February 25, 2026. The Heavy Duty and Haulage Transport Association of Nigeria (HDTAN) has issued a public disclaimer distancing itself from 13 individuals allegedly parading themselves as members and representatives of the association. In a statement dated February 26, 2026, and signed by Alhaji Murtala Mohammed on behalf of the National Secretary and Engr. Osigbemeh Emmanuel, National President and Founder, the association declared that the named persons are unknown to its structure as well as to the Presidential Order-001 Taskforce. The individuals listed include Prince Andeshatso Ira, Abbas Jaloro, Muhammed Abubakar, Bala Adamu, Elizabeth Tijani, Sani Soja, Uba Saleh, Aliya Suleiman, Tenvi Yusuf, Junaidu Sale, Hamma Adama Ahmadu, Tanimu Danjuma and Aliyu Usman. According to the statement, “the above persons are aliens to this association,” warning members of the public that any dealings with them in connection with HDTAN would be at their own r...

By Jako Keke, February 26, 2026. Governor Agbu Kefas has approved the constitution of the Taraba State Peace, Security and Crisis Accountability Committee as part of efforts to strengthen peacebuilding, enhance security coordination and promote accountability in crisis management across the state. The approval was conveyed in a press release dated February 26, 2026, and signed by the Secretary to the Government of the State, Gebon Timothy Kataps, on behalf of the Taraba State Government. According to the statement, the committee is mandated to provide an independent review of conflicts and crisis events in Taraba State, evaluate peace management responses, and ensure transparent accountability for perpetrators as well as responsible institutions. The government noted that the establishment of the committee underscores the administration’s commitment to addressing security challenges through inclusive and institutional mechanisms aimed at sustaining peace and public trust. M...

By Andrew Ojih, Jalingo The arrested Conference Superintendent of the Southern Nigeria Annual Conference of the (GMCN), Reverend Baziel Yoila, has publicly apologised to the Governor of , , and the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Chief Barr. , over what he described as “unguarded and emotional” comments made during a recent press interview. In a statement issued on Thursday and made available to journalists in Jalingo, the cleric expressed deep remorse for his utterances, admitting that his choice of words was inappropriate and capable of causing tension within the state. “After sober reflection, I totally regret the choice of words I used during my recent press conference,” he stated. “I take full responsibility for my actions and admit that I spoke out of anger and emotion — a human weakness that does not excuse the consequences of my utterances.” Reverend Yoila acknowledged that his remarks may have embarrassed the state government and created unnecessary ...

By Jako Keke, February 26, 2026. The Governor of Taraba State, Agbu Kefas, has been commended for inaugurating members of the Taraba State Disability Commission Board, a move described as a bold step toward deepening inclusion and promoting the welfare of Persons Living With Disabilities (PLWDs) in the state. The commendation came from Hon. Mary James Gaisa, Board Member representing the Southern Zone, in a statement made available to journalists shortly after the inauguration ceremony. Gaisa, who also serves as Chairman of the Spinal Cord Injury Association (SCIAN), Taraba State Chapter, said the governor’s action demonstrates genuine commitment and compassion for the wellbeing of PLWDs. According to her, the formal inauguration of the Board signals a new chapter in the state’s efforts to mainstream disability issues into governance and development planning. She noted that the establishment and activation of the Commission would provide a structured platform to address lon...

By Jako Keke, February 25, 2026 In a ceremony that blended symbolism with statecraft, Governor on Wednesday reinforced the pillars of justice and inclusion in Taraba State, swearing in a new High Court Judge, two Khadis of the Sharia Court of Appeal, newly appointed Special Advisers, and inaugurating members of the Persons Living with Disabilities Commission. The event, held inside the stately Exco Chamber of in Jalingo, drew an array of dignitaries — from senior judicial officers and political leaders to traditional rulers, clerics, and top government functionaries — all converging to witness what many described as a defining moment for governance in the state. At the heart of the ceremony was the swearing-in of Justice Mansura Bargami as Judge of the High Court, alongside Khadi Aliyu Yaya Abubakar and Khadi Yakubu Mohammed as Khadis of the Sharia Court of Appeal. Their appointments, Governor Kefas noted, represent not merely routine judicial replacements, but a deliberate effort ...

By Jako Keke, February 25, 2026. The (NUC) has released fresh guidelines regulating the award and use of honorary doctorate degrees in Nigerian universities, in a move aimed at safeguarding the integrity of the nation’s university system. In a circular dated February 24, 2026, and addressed to all Vice-Chancellors of Nigerian universities, the Commission said the new framework was developed in September 2025 and subsequently circulated in draft form to universities for input. According to the Executive Secretary of the Commission, , the guidelines were formulated to standardise procedures for the conferment of honorary degrees and address growing concerns over the misuse and abuse of such awards. The letter, referenced NUC/ES/138/VOL.66/74, explained that after receiving and incorporating feedback from some universities, the management of the Commission approved the final circulation of the guidelines for strict compliance. The Commission stressed that the new measure...

By Jako Keke, February 25, 2026. The Honourable Commissioner for Environment and Climate Change in , Hon. Aishat A. Barde, has paid a heartfelt condolence visit to the family of the late Permanent Secretary, Mrs. Patricia Dana, describing her death as a monumental loss to the state public service and the Mumuye nation. Hon. Barde, who led a delegation to the deceased’s residence in , expressed deep sorrow over the passing of the seasoned administrator, noting that her demise has created a vacuum that will be difficult to fill. Addressing members of the bereaved family, friends and sympathisers who gathered to receive her, the Commissioner urged them to take solace in God, emphasising that only the Almighty gives and takes life according to His divine will. She encouraged the family to remain united and uphold the legacies of integrity, diligence and service left behind by the late civil servant. According to Hon. Barde, the late Patricia Dana was not just a top-ranking ...

By Jako Keke, February 25, 2026. The Honourable Commissioner for Environment and Climate Change in , Hon. Aishat A. Barde, has expressed deep sorrow over the death of Mrs. Patricia Danna, Permanent Secretary, Career Management, Office of the Head of Service. In a condolence message made available to journalists by AAB Media, the Commissioner described the late Mrs. Danna as a towering figure in the Taraba State public service whose passing has created a huge vacuum in the state’s administrative system. Hon. Barde said the news of her demise was received with a heavy heart, noting that the loss is not only to her immediate family but to the entire Taraba workforce and particularly the Mumuye nation. According to the Commissioner, Mrs. Danna was among the very few female stakeholders of the Mumuye race who rose to occupy such a strategic and influential position in the state civil service. She said the deceased carried the identity of her people with dignity, strength, and...

The National Executive Council of the (MCDA) has expressed deep sorrow over the passing of Mrs. Patricia Abraham Danna, Permanent Secretary, who died on February 25, 2026. In a condolence message signed by the President of the Association, Mr. Anthony Vowaty Dogo, and the Secretary General, Comrade Ibrahim Y. Keto JP, the association described the late Mrs. Danna as a distinguished public servant whose contributions to the development of the state and service to humanity will be greatly missed. The MCDA, on behalf of the entire Mumuye nation, extended heartfelt sympathies to her immediate family, friends, and professional colleagues, noting that her death is a painful loss not only to her loved ones but also to the wider community she diligently served. The association prayed for divine comfort for the bereaved family and asked God to grant her soul eternal rest. Mrs. Danna’s death has continued to draw tributes from various groups and individuals who remember her dedi...

By Jako Keke, February 25, 2026. The Executive Chairman of Zing Local Government Council, Hon. Prince Evangelist Davoro Titus Gwandis, JP, has expressed deep grief over the death of Mrs. Patricia R. Dana, Permanent Secretary, Career Management Office, Office of the Head of Service, Taraba State, describing her passing as a colossal loss to the state. In a condolence message dated February 25, 2026, Prince Gwandis said the news of Mrs. Dana’s death was received with shock and sadness by staff and residents of Zing Local Government Area. He described the late Permanent Secretary as a rare gem who made remarkable contributions to the development and strengthening of the civil service in Taraba State. According to him, her dedication, experience, and commitment to duty played a significant role in improving career administration and enhancing professionalism within the state workforce. The council chairman noted that Mrs. Dana’s years of meritorious service were characterized b...

By our Correspondent, February 24, 2026. The (NCWS), Taraba State Chapter, has intensified efforts to strengthen girl-child education and women empowerment through a strategic partnership with the (TSUBEB). This move followed a familiarization visit by the NCWS leadership to the TSUBEB Chairperson, Mrs. Christiana T. Binga, in Jalingo. The delegation was led by the State President of NCWS, Mrs. Mercy Daniel Garba, who described the engagement as more than a routine courtesy call but a deliberate step toward building institutional collaboration for sustainable development. Speaking during the meeting, Mrs. Garba reaffirmed the Council’s unwavering commitment to uplifting women and safeguarding the future of the girl child across Taraba State. She outlined the Council’s core mandates, including promoting women empowerment through education and vocational skills acquisition, encouraging girl-child enrollment and retention in schools, supporting women’s welfare initiatives...

By Jako Keke, February 24, 2026. The (TSESA) has announced the reintroduction of the monthly environmental sanitation exercise across the state as part of renewed efforts to promote a cleaner and healthier environment. The decision was reached at the Agency’s maiden stakeholders’ meeting held in Jalingo, where participants resolved that the sanitation exercise would now be observed on the last Saturday of every month. The initiative, according to the Agency, is aimed at strengthening public hygiene, improving waste management practices and restoring order in urban and rural communities. In a media brief signed by the Executive Chairman, Hon. Iliya Kefas Alhaji, and dated February 20, 2026, TSESA stressed that the reintroduction of the monthly sanitation exercise would be backed by strict enforcement of its enabling law. The Agency warned residents and business operators to comply with sanitation regulations or face prosecution. As part of the renewed drive, banks, hotel...

By Jako Keke, February 24, 2026.  In a renewed push to curb the rising cases of Gender-Based Violence (GBV) in Taraba State, Women of Valour Initiative for Development and Empowerment (WOVAIDE) has conducted a three-day sensitization campaign across 21 secondary schools in Takum Local Government Area. The awareness programme, held on February 17th–18th and 20th, 2026, targeted 16 private and five government secondary schools, reaching a total of 605 students and 34 teachers and principals. The initiative forms part of WOVAIDE’s broader strategy to address the root causes of gender-based violence through early education, advocacy, and community engagement. Participants were educated on the various forms of GBV, including physical and emotional violence, sexual violence, child marriage, human trafficking, pedophilia, female genital mutilation (FGM), domestic violence, and rape. Speaking during the exercise, the Chief Executive Officer, CEO of WOVAIDE Mrs Sarah David Ibi e...

By our Correspondent, February 22, 2026. A political stalwart in Zing Local Government Area of , Hon. Leah Olusuyi Solomon, has commended the peaceful conduct of the (APC) Local Government Congress in the area. Hon. Solomon, who serves as Chairman of the Governing Council of the (CSDP), gave the commendation in an interview with journalists shortly after the exercise . She described the hitch-free congress as a demonstration of internal democracy and unity among party faithful in Zing, noting that the consensus arrangement adopted by stakeholders reflected maturity and cooperation within the party. The CSDP Chairman congratulated the newly elected officials who emerged through consensus and urged them to work towards strengthening cohesion among members to further consolidate the party’s presence in the local government. Hon. Solomon also called on residents of Zing who are yet to formally register with the APC to do so, emphasizing that broader participation would e...

By Jako Keke, February 22, 2026. After ten years of silence, the ancient bells of the United Methodist Church in Nigeria, Jatutu Memorial Cathedral, Magami in Jalingo rang out again on Sunday, as worshippers gathered for a historic Thanksgiving Service for Unity and Reconciliation. The reopening of the cathedral once shut down by a protracted internal crisis has been widely described as a turning point for the Christian community in Taraba State. At the heart of the celebration was the Governor of Taraba State, Agbu Kefas, who not only facilitated the peace process leading to the reopening but also mounted the pulpit as guest preacher. For a decade, the imposing cathedral at Magami stood as a symbol of division. The crisis that engulfed the church fractured relationships and disrupted worship, leaving members scattered and the sanctuary locked. However, behind the scenes, sustained dialogue, reconciliation meetings, and confidence-building efforts championed by Governor Kef...