Governor Agbu Kefas of Taraba State has initiated a comprehensive road construction program that promises to transform transportation networks and stimulate economic activity throughout the state.
From Planning to Action: The Infrastructure Shift
Governor Dr. Agbu Kefas has moved from planning to implementation with the launch of multi-billion-naira road projects across Taraba State's three senatorial zones. This development follows his September 23, 2025 pledge during a town hall meeting with stakeholders from Southern, Central, and Northern zones to commence massive infrastructural projects at the start of the dry season.
The governor addressed previous criticism about his administration's pace, explaining that the delay resulted from the absence of a state master plan. "This obstacle needed to be addressed before meaningful development could begin," Kefas emphasized. With the master plan now finalized, his administration has accelerated infrastructure development after initially prioritizing security and education reforms, including the introduction of free education policy and school revamping.
Major Road Projects and Financial Commitments
Contractors have been mobilized to several critical road corridors long considered vital but previously neglected. The flagship project is the expansive Mararaba-Baissa-Abong road, divided into three lots of 28 kilometers each, awarded to three construction giants:
- CGC Nigeria Limited
- CCECC Nigeria Limited
- China Zhanghao
The government has released N5 billion per lot to accelerate work on these crucial routes. Additional awarded projects include:
- Pamamga-Dakka road
- Mararaba-Yorro-Pantisawa road
- Yerima-Gassol road
- Wukari-Kente-Chinkai road
- Takum-Ussa road
The administration has also approved N1.9 billion for palliative repairs on critical routes including Wukari–Tella–Mutum Biyu and Bali–Mararaba/Baissa, plus township roads in Jalingo and Wukari.
Stakeholder Reactions and Development Impact
At the contract-signing ceremony in Jalingo, Commissioner for Works and Infrastructure Development Moses Luka described the initiative as "part of the governor's broader strategy to open up communities and stimulate economic growth." He emphasized that the substantial fund release demonstrates Kefas's commitment to fulfilling campaign promises.
Engineer Samuel Oyatemi, Chairman of Moulds Construction Nigeria Limited, assured the state of quality work aligned with specifications. The infrastructure rollout has received widespread praise from lawmakers, traditional rulers, and local government chairmen.
Deputy Speaker Hamman Adama Ibinlla revealed at a Taraba State House of Assembly session that the governor approved N15 billion for additional projects including Bali General Hospital construction, completion of Bali–Dakka–Pamanga Road, and Bali Government Lodge. Ibinlla noted that the governor has "touched every nook and cranny of the state" and restored security in previously volatile areas.
Traditional leaders have expressed gratitude for the development initiatives. Alhaji Ali Yuauf Ganwaei, Second-Class Chief of Dakka, thanked the governor for restarting work on the Pamanga–Dakka road, describing it as "a lifeline for his community." He emphasized that "with this road, every development can come to this community."
In Kurmi Local Government Council, Chairman Moses Maihankali noted that contractor mobilization to the Kurmi road was long overdue. He highlighted Kurmi's rich natural resources and stated that improved road access would unlock significant economic opportunities.
Motorists along the long-abandoned Wukari–Chinkai road expressed relief, noting that reconstruction after more than two decades of neglect would ease transportation difficulties.
Political analysts observe that Kefas's leadership style, centered on economic, social and cross-cutting development indicators, has yielded tangible results within a relatively short time. They argue he has demonstrated ability to identify and utilize talented professionals, thereby strengthening his administration's effectiveness.
While acknowledging that no leader is without shortcomings, commentators describe Kefas as one of the governors who "came, saw and conquered," a leader whose achievements are already shaping Taraba State's modern political and developmental trajectory.
Residents have hailed the governor's performance just two years into his tenure, with many stating that the ongoing infrastructural revolution marks a turning point in the state's pursuit of long-awaited prosperity.
