Jalingo Times.

By Jako Keke,  June 29, 2026. The 6 Brigade of the Nigerian Army and Sector 3 of Operation Whirl Stroke (OPWS) on Sunday held a special church service in Jalingo as part of activities marking the 163rd Nigerian Army Day Celebration (NADCEL) 2026. The thanksgiving service took place at Saint Peter Catholic Church, Nukkai, and brought together government officials, military personnel, security chiefs and other dignitaries to offer prayers for the nation and the Armed Forces. Speaking during the service, Taraba State Governor, Dr. Agbu Kefas, described the occasion as an opportunity to thank God for His protection over officers and soldiers, honour their sacrifices and pray for enduring peace, unity and security across the country. The governor said military service is more than a profession, describing it as a calling that demands discipline, courage, loyalty, endurance and selfless sacrifice. He noted that the theme of NADCEL 2026, "Protecting the Nation and Serving the...

By Jako Keke,  June 29, 2026. The 6 Brigade of the Nigerian Army and Sector 3 of Operation Whirl Stroke (OPWS) on Sunday held a special church service in Jalingo as part of activities marking the 163rd Nigerian Army Day Celebration (NADCEL) 2026. The thanksgiving service took place at Saint Peter Catholic Church, Nukkai, and brought together government officials, military personnel, security chiefs and other dignitaries to offer prayers for the nation and the Armed Forces. Speaking during the service, Taraba State Governor, Dr. Agbu Kefas, described the occasion as an opportunity to thank God for His protection over officers and soldiers, honour their sacrifices and pray for enduring peace, unity and security across the country. The governor said military service is more than a profession, describing it as a calling that demands discipline, courage, loyalty, endurance and selfless sacrifice. He noted that the theme of NADCEL 2026, "Protecting the Nation and Serving the People: A W...

The Special Adviser to the Taraba State Governor on Christian Religion Matters, Very Rev. Fr. Sunday Patrick Muke, has urged Christians to remain unwavering in their commitment to Jesus Christ by living lives marked by compassion, humility and selfless service. In his message to mark this Sunday's worship, Fr. Muke said the Gospel reading from Matthew 10 highlights the call to true discipleship, stressing that following Christ demands wholehearted commitment and placing God above every earthly attachment. He explained that although family and loved ones are important, a Christian's love for God should take precedence and serve as the foundation for every relationship and action. According to him, every act of kindness, love and service, no matter how small, is precious in God's sight, adding that Christ continually strengthens those who remain faithful to Him. Fr. Muke encouraged believers to use the beginning of the new week as an opportunity to renew their...

By Jako Keke, June 27, 2026. No fewer than 19 persons were on Saturday arrested and prosecuted for violating environmental sanitation regulations during the monthly environmental sanitation exercise in Jalingo, the Taraba State capital. The offenders were apprehended by security personnel deployed to various parts of the metropolis to monitor compliance with the state government's environmental sanitation directives and ensure residents participated in the exercise. Speaking with journalists shortly after monitoring the exercise, the Chairman of the Taraba State Environmental Sanitation Agency (TSESA), Iliya Kefas Alhaji, said the arrests and subsequent prosecutions were necessary to enforce environmental laws and discourage acts capable of undermining efforts to maintain a clean and healthy environment. According to him, the state government remains committed to enforcing sanitation regulations to promote environmental cleanliness, prevent disease outbreaks, and improv...

 President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has signed the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) Act 2026 into law, ushering in a new legal framework aimed at strengthening Nigeria's digital identity system, protecting citizens' data, and accelerating the country's digital economy. Announcing the development on Friday, Bola Ahmed Tinubu said the new legislation replaces a nearly two-decade-old legal framework that no longer reflects the realities of a rapidly evolving digital age. According to the President, the Act positions the National Identity Management Commission at the centre of Nigeria's Digital Public Infrastructure and National Public Key Infrastructure, providing a trusted platform for verified identities, secure transactions, digital signatures, and other digital services. Tinubu noted that the law establishes stronger safeguards for the protection of personal data, stressing that citizens' information cannot be accessed indiscriminately, used beyo...

By Environment Correspondent, June 26, 2026.  The Taraba State Commissioner for Environment and Climate Change, Hajiya Aishat A. Barde, has directed contractors handling the Bobboji Storm Water Project in Jalingo to accelerate work and ensure timely completion of the project. Barde gave the directive on Thursday during an inspection tour of the ongoing World Bank-supported project aimed at tackling flooding and erosion challenges in the Bobboji community and surrounding areas. The commissioner conducted an extensive assessment of the construction site to evaluate the level of work completed and ascertain compliance with approved specifications and project timelines. While commending the contractors for the progress made so far, she expressed concern over the pace of execution and stressed the need for intensified efforts to meet the project's completion deadline. According to her, the Bobboji Storm Water Project is a critical intervention being implemented through colla...

By Our Correspondent , June 26, 2026.  The Inspector-General of Police, , has ordered an immediate end to political killings and violence in Osun State, as security authorities intensify efforts to restore peace ahead of the state's forthcoming elections. The directive was conveyed on Thursday by , the Deputy Inspector-General of Police in charge of the South-West, during a closed-door meeting with at the Government House, Osogbo. Fayoade, who was accompanied by the Assistant Inspector-General of Police for Zone 11, the Osun State Commissioner of Police and other senior officers, said he was deployed to the state by the IGP to investigate recent incidents of violence and implement measures to curb further unrest. According to him, the IGP has directed security operatives to ensure that political violence and criminal activities do not recur in the state. “The Commissioner of Police and his men have been instructed that never again should any act of brigandage tak...

By Our Correspondent, June 26, 2026  More than 20 public and private secondary schools across Taraba State on Thursday participated in the maiden edition of the Taraba Peace Festival, an initiative aimed at promoting peace, unity, and tolerance among young people. The festival, organized by Munga Breed Climate Action Foundation Taraba in collaboration with Youth of Nigeria Against Violence, was held in Jalingo and attracted students, security agencies, women groups, community leaders, and other stakeholders. Speaking at the event, the organizers said the festival was conceived to instill the values of peaceful coexistence in the younger generation and discourage involvement in violence, kidnapping, and hate speech. They noted that Taraba State, with its more than 80 ethnic groups and diverse religious and cultural backgrounds, remains a symbol of Nigeria's diversity, making peacebuilding a critical priority for sustainable development. According to the organizers,...

By Jako Keke, June 26, 2026 Governor of Plateau State, , has expressed profound grief over the death of renowned broadcaster and media veteran, , describing his passing as a monumental loss to Plateau State, Nigeria, and the global broadcasting community. In a condolence message issued on Friday, Governor Mutfwang paid glowing tribute to the late media icon, noting that Keyen's unwavering commitment to excellence, truth, and public service earned him widespread respect and admiration both within Nigeria and internationally. The governor recalled Keyen's remarkable contributions to the growth and development of the , where he served twice as General Manager. According to him, the veteran broadcaster transformed the corporation into one of Nigeria's most respected public broadcasting institutions through visionary leadership, innovation, and professionalism. Mutfwang further lauded Keyen's role in promoting peace and social cohesion in Plateau State, part...

TSU-Watch News Bulletin Taraba State University, Jalingo, is once again making a strong statement on the national stage as Dr. Engr. Tanko Bako is currently representing the institution at the 3rd National Innovation Competition of the Nigerian Academy of Engineering (NAEng) holding at the Balmoral Convention Centre, Sheraton Hotel, Ikeja, Lagos. Dr. Bako's innovation, titled "Development and Evaluation of a Bio-Organic Powder Fertilizer (Fertipest) for Arable Crop Production," was selected among numerous entries submitted from across the country and has successfully emerged as one of the final eight innovations shortlisted for the grand finale of the competition. The innovation, which originated from the Department of Agricultural and Bio-Resources Engineering, is designed to provide an environmentally friendly and sustainable solution to crop production challenges while promoting increased agricultural productivity among farmers. According to the organisers,...

By our Political Correspondent, June 25, 2026. The Andenati Support Group has called on the people of Takum, Donga, Ussa Local Government Areas and Yangtu Special Development Area to unite behind Hon. Sule Yakubu Andenati, the PDP House of Representatives candidate for the constituency. In a statement issued on Wednesday, June 24, by Teb Kaka, Spokesperson of the Andenati Support Group, the group said the time has come for collective action behind a leader with vision, dedication, and genuine commitment to community progress. “Hon. Sule Yakubu Andenati has consistently demonstrated leadership, integrity and a passion for grassroots development,” the statement read. “His commitment to youth empowerment, infrastructure development, education and community welfare makes him the ideal choice to represent our people.” The group urged all stakeholders, youths, women, elders and supporters across the constituency to give their massive support to Hon. Andenati as he seeks to serve ...

By our Judicial Correspondent, June 24, 2026. An Upper Area court sitting in Jalingo has fixed July 2, 2026, for hearing in a suit involving the Chief Executive Officer of Taraba News, Mr. Gabriel Olayinka. When the matter came up before the presiding judge, Lawan Jika, counsel to the complainant, Barrister D.G. Tukura, filed an application seeking the appearance of branch managers of Zenith Bank, Globus Bank and OPay in Jalingo, along with statements relating to certain accounts under investigation. Barrister Tukura told the court that the documents to be produced by the bank officials would assist the prosecution in presenting its case. Responding, counsel to the defendant, Barrister L.L. Tadkok, of P.D Pius and Associates raised no objection to the application. However, he urged the court to grant an accelerated hearing of the matter. According to him, since the revocation of the defendant's bail on January 23, 2026, the complainant had not made sufficient efforts to...

By Our Correspondent  A major milestone in disability inclusion was recorded in Wukari Local Government Area of Taraba State as ten tricycles were distributed to Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) and, for the first time, a PWD was appointed as Special Adviser to the local government chairman. The initiative, described as a historic step towards inclusive governance, was spearheaded by the Executive Chairman of Wukari Local Government Council and approved by the Taraba State Government. The tricycles were formally presented to beneficiaries by the Aku Uka of Wukari, His Royal Majesty, , during a ceremony attended by community leaders, government officials and members of the disability community. Speaking on the development, the Southern Coordinator of the Taraba State Disability Commission, Hon. Mary James Gaisa, hailed the gesture as a landmark achievement that demonstrates genuine commitment to the welfare and inclusion of persons living with disabilities. Accordin...

Proceedings in the criminal case instituted against the Chief Executive Officer of Taraba Business School, Taraba News and SumTV, Mr. Gabriel Olayinka, were on Monday stalled at Upper Area Court No. 11, Jalingo, following the absence of counsel to the complainant. The matter, bordering on alleged criminal breach of trust and cheating, could not proceed after counsel representing the complainant, Mr. D.G. Tukura, informed the court that they were not prepared for the hearing. Counsel to the defendant, Mr. L.L. Tadkok, of P.D Pius Chambers who spoke to journalists after the court session, said his legal team was fully prepared to commence hearing only to discover that the complainant's counsel was seeking an adjournment. According to him, the defence team had complied with the hearing notice served on them and appeared before the court expecting the prosecution to open its case. "We came to court today prepared to defend our client against the allegations of crim...

By Jako Keke, June 22, 2026. In a move to alleviate the biting effects of Nigeria’s current economic hardship, Mrs. Esther Yakubu Sule, Director of Nati Group of Schools, has disbursed cash support to less privileged families across Takum, Donga, and Ussa Local Government Areas, as well as Yangtu Special Development Area. The intervention was executed under the Yakubu Sule Foundation, a humanitarian platform founded by her son, Hon. Yakubu Sule Andenati, PDP aspirant for the Takum, Donga and Ussa Federal Constituency ahead of the 2027 general elections. The beneficiaries included widows, elderly citizens, persons living with disabilities, and daily wage earners whose livelihoods have been strained by rising food prices and inflation. Cash grants were distributed at designated centers in all four areas to ensure direct impact. Represented by Alhaji Muazu Mandela, Mrs. Sule said the gesture was “in appreciation of the love, prayers, and massive support shown to my son since ...

By Staff Reporter A development expert and policy analyst, Dr. Joseph Gimba, has called for the adoption of a circular economy model in Africa’s mining sector as a pathway to transforming the continent’s vast mineral resources into long-term economic prosperity, environmental sustainability, and social development. Dr. Gimba made the submission in a presentation titled “Africa’s Mineral Wealth: Opportunity, Risk, Sustainability and the Circular Economy Approach,” where he highlighted the enormous opportunities available in Africa’s mining industry alongside the challenges threatening the sector’s growth. According to him, Africa possesses vast untapped deposits of gold, lithium, coal, limestone, and other strategic minerals that offer significant opportunities for investment, industrialization, and export expansion. He noted that increased investment in local mineral processing and value addition could boost profits, create employment opportunities, and strengthen domestic ...

By Political Correspondent A coalition of youths under the banner of the Badawaire Northern Youths Movement has declared its support for the second-term aspirations of President and Governor ahead of the 2027 general elections. The group made its position known during a meeting where members unanimously endorsed both leaders, citing their commitment to development, peace, and good governance. Speaking on behalf of the movement, the youths reaffirmed their loyalty to the ruling (APC) and pledged to strengthen grassroots support for the party across the Northern Zone of Taraba State. The coalition also called on members of the APC in the state to embrace unity, peace, and harmony, stressing that internal cohesion would be critical to the party's future electoral success. According to the group, Governor Kefas has demonstrated visionary leadership and recorded notable achievements in efforts aimed at restoring peace, fostering unity, and advancing development acr...

By Jako Keke,  June 21, 2026.  The Special Adviser to the Governor of Taraba State on Christian Religion Matters, Very Rev. Fr. Sunday Patrick Muke, has called on residents of the state to remain steadfast in faith, trust in God's providence, and continue to promote peaceful coexistence among all communities. In a Sunday message issued to Christians and the people of Taraba State, Fr. Muke reflected on the Gospel reading of the day from Matthew 10:26–33, emphasizing the importance of courage, faith, and confidence in God's care amid prevailing uncertainties. According to him, the Gospel reminds believers that God is mindful of His children and remains attentive to their needs. He noted that if God watches over even the smallest of His creatures, He will certainly care for humanity. The cleric urged residents not to be overwhelmed by challenges but to remain firm in their faith and commitment to doing what is right, stressing that God's love and guidance remain c...

Culled from GPS, June 19, 2026. The Nigeria for Women Programme Scale-Up Project (NFWP-SU) in Plateau State has stepped up its community engagement efforts in Jos South Local Government Area, extending its sensitization and recruitment campaign to Bukuru and Gyel A wards. The outreach, coordinated by the Plateau State Project Coordinating Unit (SPCU), was aimed at raising awareness about the programme and recruiting prospective Ward Facilitators to support effective implementation at the grassroots level. At Bukuru Ward, traditional leaders, women, and other stakeholders gathered to learn about the objectives and opportunities offered by the project. The engagement forms part of ongoing efforts to ensure that women across communities are adequately informed and positioned to benefit from the initiative. Speaking during the sensitization exercise, the Mai Angwa of Yelwa Club, Da Christopher Pam, commended the government for bringing the programme closer to the people. ...

By our Correspondent, June 19, 2026. The Danji SS Media Team has urged residents of Taraba State to carefully assess recent government initiatives as the state moves closer to the next election cycle. In a statement issued on Saturday, the group expressed reservations about what it described as a surge in policy announcements and approvals by the administration of Governor Agbu Kefas, questioning the timing and implementation of some of the measures. According to the statement, the administration has recently announced employment opportunities and other initiatives that, in the team's view, should have been pursued earlier in its tenure. The group argued that despite significant allocations and loans received by the state over the past three years, many residents are still expecting the completion and commissioning of major projects. It suggested that recent actions may be aimed at addressing growing public concerns. The media team also commented on reports regarding th...

By Jako Keke, June 19, 2026. The Headquarters of 6 Brigade Nigerian Army/Sector 3 Operation Whirl Stroke has dismissed social media reports linking the death of Lieutenant Colonel Emmanuel Gabriel Okoye, Commanding Officer of 20 Model Battalion, to a bandit attack or any operational incident. In a statement issued on Thursday by Lieutenant Umar Muhammad, Acting Assistant Director of Army Public Relations, the Brigade described the reports as misleading, inaccurate, and insensitive to the family of the deceased officer. According to the statement, Lieutenant Colonel Okoye died on June 13, 2026, after a brief illness, contrary to claims circulating on various social media platforms suggesting that he was killed during a bandit attack. "For the avoidance of doubt, Lieutenant Colonel Emmanuel Gabriel Okoye passed away after a brief illness. His death was neither the result of a bandit attack nor any operational incident, as falsely insinuated in some social media reports,...

Proceedings in a suit challenging the outcome of the All Progressives Congress (APC) primary election for the Jalingo/Yorro/Zing Federal Constituency have been adjourned to July 1, 2026, by the Federal High Court sitting in Jalingo. The suit was instituted by APC aspirant, Hon. Princess Leah Olusiyi Solomon, who is seeking the nullification of the party’s primary election that produced the incumbent lawmaker representing Jalingo, Yorro and Zing Federal Constituency, Hon. Sadiq Tafida, as the APC flagbearer for the 2027 general elections. When the matter came up for mention, counsel representing the first and second respondents—the All Progressives Congress (APC) and the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC)—were present in court. However, counsel to the third respondent, Hon. Sadiq Tafida, was absent and no reason was provided for the non-appearance. Speaking with journalists after the court session, counsel to the plaintiff, Barrister P.D. Pius Esq., disclosed t...

By Jako Keke, Editor-in-Chief, June 15, 2026. Proceedings in a suit challenging the conduct of the All Progressives Congress (APC) primary elections for the Jalingo/Yorro/Zing and Ardo-Kola/Karim-Lamido/Lau federal constituencies were on Monday stalled at the Federal High Court, Jalingo, following the absence of the presiding judge, Justice Mashkur Salisu. The matter, which was slated for hearing, could not proceed as the judge was not in court, prompting an adjournment until June 17, 2026. The suit was instituted by Honorable  Princess Leah Olusiyi Solomon and Honorable  Job Julius Saleh, both aspirants in the APC primary election process. Hon Leah Solomon contested for the party's ticket for the Jalingo/Yorro/Zing Federal Constituency, while Hon Julius sought the nomination for the Ardo-Kola/Karim-Lamido/Lau Federal Constituency. The plaintiffs are asking the court to nullify the primaries in the two constituencies, contending that no valid primary elections were...

By Jako Keke,June 14, 2026. The Taraba State Government has expressed deep sorrow over the death of the Commanding Officer of the 20 Battalion, Serti, Lt. Col. Emmanuel Gabriel Okoye, describing his passing as a great loss to the state and the nation. In a condolence letter dated June 13, 2026, and signed by the Secretary to the State Government, Chief Barr. Gebon Timothy Kataps, on behalf of Governor Agbu Kefas, the government extended its sympathies to the family of the late military officer and the Commander of 6 Brigade/Operation Whirl Stroke, Jalingo, Brig. Gen. Emeka Akaliro. The letter noted that the late Lt. Col. Okoye served the country with dedication, courage, professionalism, and a strong sense of duty, adding that his leadership as Commanding Officer of the 20 Battalion contributed significantly to the maintenance of peace, security, and stability in Taraba State and beyond. According to the state government, the news of his death came as a shock, but his l...

By Jako Keke, June 14,2026. The Special Adviser to the Taraba State Governor on Christian Religion Matters, Very Rev. Fr. Sunday Patrick Muke, has called on Christians to embrace compassion, service and unity as they carry out their faith and contribute to the peace and development of society. In a Sunday reflection based on Matthew 9:36–10:8, Fr. Muke said Jesus Christ demonstrated compassion for people who were "weary and helpless, like sheep without a shepherd," before commissioning His disciples to spread the Good News, heal the sick and restore hope. He noted that the scripture passage serves as a reminder that God continues to call ordinary men and women to become instruments of His love, mercy and peace through selfless service to humanity. According to the cleric, Christians are expected to respond positively to God's call by supporting one another, promoting peaceful coexistence and bringing comfort to those facing difficulties. Fr. M...

Our Correspondent, June 13, 2026. The All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) in Taraba State has raised concerns over the alleged use of state resources and security personnel for political activities, calling for transparency and fairness in the electoral process. In a statement issued by the Danji SS Campaign Team on April 13, 2026, the party alleged that a viral video showed members of Governor Agbu Kefas' family linking government employment opportunities to political support. According to APGA, public sector jobs should be based on merit and the public interest, stressing that employment opportunities are funded through public resources and should not be influenced by partisan considerations. The party also expressed concern over the reported recall of workers who were previously classified as ghost workers, urging the state government to provide clarification on the status of the affected employees and the basis for their reinstatement. APGA further alleged that m...