By Our Correspondent
Women’s groups in Taraba State have praised Governor Agbu Kefas for improvements in security, education and infrastructure, pledging support for his potential re-election bid in 2027.
The endorsements came during a Women’s Engagement and Awareness Programme held on Saturday in Jalingo, where participants from Muslim and Christian organisations commended what they described as a return to relative peace in previously troubled communities.
Speakers at the event said improved security had enabled women to resume farming, trading and other economic activities, noting a sharp decline in kidnappings across the state.
They also highlighted the government’s free education policy, which covers tuition and basic levies in primary and secondary schools, as well as a 50% reduction in fees across state-owned tertiary institutions. According to participants, the measures have boosted school enrolment, particularly among girls, and allowed more students to return to universities and colleges.
“In the past many families struggled to keep children in school, but now more are able to continue their education,” one participant said.
Ongoing infrastructure projects, including road construction, school rehabilitation and upgrades to healthcare facilities, were also cited as key achievements impacting women and children.
The event was organised by the Office of the Special Adviser to the Governor on Muslim Religious Matters, led by Hussaini Isma’il, who said the programme aimed to strengthen engagement between government and women, while promoting religious harmony and awareness of public policies.
Isma’il urged participants to support the governor’s development agenda and dismissed criticism from political opponents, describing the administration’s spending, particularly on security and education, as necessary.
Governor Kefas, who took office in May 2023, has prioritised security, education, agriculture, healthcare and infrastructure as pillars of his administration.
Participants at the gathering pledged to mobilise support for the governor ahead of the 2027 election, with some vowing to canvass votes across local communities.
They also called for continued dialogue on issues affecting women, including economic empowerment, maternal health and access to credit, while urging the government to accelerate improvements in healthcare services.