Governor Agbu Kefas Convenes Expanded Security Meeting.

 Hassan Garba 

To ensure the safety of the state and maintain an environment conducive for residents to carry out their daily activities, the Governor of Taraba State, Dr. Agbu Kefas, convened an expanded security meeting at the Banquet Hall, TY Danjuma House, Jalingo. This meeting brought together key stakeholders from across the state.

Addressing the attendees, Dr. Agbu Kefas emphasised that the meeting aimed to engage stakeholders in a comprehensive and deliberate approach to securing the state. He noted that significant progress had been made in various sectors, including education, health, and agriculture, over the past two years. However, he stressed that without security, no meaningful progress can be achieved.

The Governor highlighted that the state faces threats from multiple sources, including infiltration through motor parks, marketplaces, the international border with the Republic of Cameroon, neighbouring states, and unregulated mining activities. He underscored the urgent need for decisive measures to sustain the peace enjoyed by the people.

Dr. Kefas described the meeting as a call to action, stating that security is a collective responsibility shared by every citizen. He called for a re-strategization of the intelligence network in the state and emphasised the importance of empowering women and youth with alternatives to crime. Additionally, he advocated for collaboration with traditional institutions to reclaim ungoverned spaces and the creation of a state-wide network for early warning and response, as well as the protection of schools, markets, motor parks, and places of worship.

The Governor acknowledged the ongoing issue of illegal mining and assured those present that he would take action against it shortly. He urged attendees to contribute useful suggestions and ideas that would foster harmony in the state, emphasising that all decisions made during the meeting would be translated into practical actions.

Furthermore, he announced the expansion of the Taraba Marshals security outfit to incorporate vigilante groups, hunters, and community-based structures.

Earlier, the Secretary to the Government of Taraba State, Chief Gebon Timothy Kataps, noted that the state has experienced significant improvements in the security of life and property due to the Governor's commitment. He mentioned that the Governor has consistently deployed necessary resources to support security agencies, providing operational vehicles and funding to ensure the safety of Taraba.

The meeting was themed "Securing Our State, Safeguarding the Future." It later transitioned into a closed-door session