By MARTINS ABOCHOL

Gov. Agbu Kefas of Taraba on Friday said his administration would create 14 Development Areas across the state to bring governance closer to the people.

Kefas, who said this in Jalingo in a broadcast to mark his three years in office, noted that the move was to ensure that all the different ethnic groups that make up Taraba were adequately carried along in his administration.

He listed the achievements of his administration in various sectors, beginning with the state of emergency in education, which he noted, gave birth to free education for primary and secondary schools and the slashing of 50 per cent tuition fee for tertiary institutions.

He said the administration has improved health care delivery through; renovation and remodeling of the State Specialist Hospital, Jalingo, remodeling of General Hospital, Bali and the upgrading of the First Referral Hospital, Donga, to a General Hospital.

He also mentioned furnishing of the completed College of Nursing and Midwifery and procurement of a CT-Scan machine for the State Specialist Hospital, Jalingo.

Kefas said that the renovation and remodeling of General Hospital, Warwar as well as the renovation and construction of new structures at the College of Health Technology, Takum were part of the transformations in the health sector.

The governor also said that his administration has supported farmers, encouraged agricultural expansion, and position Taraba as a major contributor to food security in Nigeria.

“We are also taking deliberate steps to improve livestock development, reduce conflicts associated with farming activities, and create better economic opportunities for citizens,” he added.

He explained that in recognition of the judiciary as a critical pillar of democracy and justice, the administration has continued efforts to strengthen the justice system through Plans for a new High Court Complex.

He listed the establishment of an office for the Judicial Service Commission as well as introduction and expansion of e-filing system as reforms aimed at improving efficiency and access to justice.

He further mentioned digital economy, road infrastructure, civil service reforms, environment and waste management as other areas the administration has recorded achievements.

Kefas however, said that his administration which came into office in 2023, inherited serious challenges across many sectors.

“We met infrastructure deficits. We met gaps in education and healthcare. We met security concerns affecting many communities.

“We met economic difficulties impacting families and young people. These challenges were daunting, but not insurmountable. Rather than complain or engage in blame games, we chose the path of action,” he added.

He thanked traditional rulers, religious leaders, security agencies, civil servants,

youths, women, development partners, media partners and all citizens of Taraba

for their continued support, prayers, and cooperation. (NAN)