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Taraba: First Youth, Economic, And Security Summit Was A Huge Success
By Oluwatosin Alex
The just concluded three-day Youth, economic, and security summit in Taraba state can be best described as a huge success. Tagged “Harvesting the potential in our youth, repositioning Taraba from potential to prosperity and securing our people’’, and being the first of its kind in the northeast zone, the summit is truly worthy of emulation.
Organized by a 21-man committee spearheaded by the ever-dynamic Mr Benjamin Bako, the three-day summit has boosted the visibility of Taraba state among others. About 123 royal fathers, 1st, 2nd, and 3rd class chiefs, House of Assembly members, members of the House of Representatives, the youth population, economic experts, and security experts among a host of many other important personalities were in attendance throughout the summit.
Apart from its distinctive nature and proposition to the problems faced in Taraba state, the summit further portrays the commitment, dedication, and intentions of His Excellency, Dr. Agbu Kefas to ensure his administration engages the youth population for the progress of Taraba state.
In his courteous nature, Dr. Agbu Kefas stormed the Gym Hall of Jolly Nyame stadium to declare the summit open with powerful messages reminding the teeming audience of the reason behind the summit and reiterating his plans for the youth population in the state.
“Today is a milestone in our history as a state as we hold this maiden edition of the Taraba State Youth, Economic, and Security Summit. This project is dear to my heart because I made a promise and intend to fulfill my campaign promise that 80% of my appointments will be youths and women. The youth will take center stage in this administration.
“The youths are the driving force of any society. It is therefore imperative that we empower them and position them to make the best of their time, their energies, their talent and skills, and their youthfulness. That is what this summit aims to achieve.
“We would create platforms to showcase skills, innovations, and plausible solutions and ideas. The emphasis on employment must stop. Rather, we would encourage youths to be innovative. We would create an enabling environment for them to excel. This is the focus of my administration and that is why we are holding this all-important summit at the beginning of my administration”
On his part, Mr. Benjamin Bako stated that the summit was the birth of a new Taraba state that encourages mental transformation for progress. Speaking on the importance of being acquainted with technological skills, Bako explained that part of the goals of the summit was to arm Taraba youths with 21st-century skills that can guarantee survival.
“If we must make progress, then there must be a mental transformation. That is what this summit aims at achieving. We know that there is a direct correlation between idle youths and criminality.
“The creation of a fresh new Taraba has kick-started today, and you must count yourselves lucky to be here on time. It is time to move forward in unity for Taraba State. Success is intentional. What and who you listen to, and what you know is what frees you or imprisons you in the journey of life. I assure you that after today, you will never remain the same again. Mindset is everything. To succeed you must have a daring mindset and stop spending time in places and with persons that won’t grow you and add value to your life.
“If you continue to listen to analysis that leads to paralysis, no matter how big your certificate is, you are going nowhere. Our dear state today is replete with cemeteries of great dreams because of mindset, wrong orientation, and what people listen to. You become what you think! You must explore, you must be audacious and you must be bold! Certificates can take you up, but only attitude and good behavior can keep you there.’’
“Technology has become the fastest growing Industry in the world and also In our lives now. If you don’t keep learning and adapting to new trends, you will be left stranded with your certificates. We have to accept the reality in the world now that your certificate, which confers your confidence and understanding to some extent, will not help you much if you do not acquire specific skills to survive.’’
The summit came to an end yesterday with several commendations for Dr. Agbu Kefas for organizing such a historic event where priority was given to the betterment of the youth population in Taraba state. His Royal Majesty Dr. Ishaku Adda Agbu, Emir of Jalingo Alhaji Abbas Tafida, Gara of Donga Sanvala Shimbura Gargbanyi, and Lamdo Gashaka all made speeches extolling the virtues of Dr. Agbu Kefas for organizing the event and call for more of such.
In his closing remarks, The governor who was ably represented by his deputy, Alhaji Aminu Alkali described the Summit as very successful, impactful, and historic, vowing that the Taraba State government shall implement all the recommendations of the summit.
The Lagos State Government, in its continued effort to promote cultural heritage and deepen tourism footprints, has concluded plans to host the Lagos Cultural Weekend.
A three-day cultural extravaganza, scheduled to take place across multiple strategic locations, including the J. Randle Centre for Yoruba Culture and History, Freedom Park, National Theatre, Badagry Heritage Museum, Lekki Arts and Crafts Market, and Tafawa Balewa Square, from November 14th to November 16th, 2025.
This weekend-long celebration will spotlight the richness of Nigeria’s traditions through curated events that blend history, culture, and local artistry.
Speaking on the initiative, Special Adviser to the Governor on Tourism, Arts, and Culture, Mr. Idris Aregbe, noted that the event is a key part of a broader framework of the Lagos Cultural Mission.
“We aim to use the Lagos Cultural Weekend as a true reflection of Lagos culture, a herescope for tourists and visitors from across the globe to witness just how rich our culture is.
“The three days will be a cultural baptism, a deep, meaningful introduction to who we are. As a government, we now understand prioritising cultural representation as a driver for economic growth.
”On the initiative’s impact, the Special Adviser explained that it goes beyond showcasing culture, but investing in cultural artisans, talented enthusiasts, and key stakeholders to foster real engagement and growth.“Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s administration values collaboration and inclusiveness, which is why we want to work closely with Lagosians who truly understand our culture to help us achieve these goals.
“From the historians, to creatives, curators, artisans, culinary experts, performers, fashion designers, community leaders, and traditional institutions, we need them to join us in making a lasting impact.“So that, in the end, our guests and friends from many nations will carry home an authentic story of Lagos and enriched cultural literacy,” Mr. Aregbe said.
Attendees will enjoy array of activities, including live music performances, DIY sessions, contemporary art exhibitions, traditional dance showcases, fashion shows, culinary tastings, and craft demonstrations.
Also lined up are symposiums and cultural lectures designed for tourists and enthusiasts who wish to dive deeper into the Lagos cultural identity.
The weekend will be animated by diverse local performance groups representing the rich ethnic landscape of Lagos, with a special emphasis on language, literature, and indigenous storytelling.
Lagos Cultural Weekend 2025 reaffirms the state’s commitment to building a thriving creative economy while celebrating the depth of Nigerian traditions.
Through strategic partnerships, corporate sponsorships, and community engagement, this initiative will set a new benchmark for inclusive cultural programming in Lagos and Africa at large.
Lagos Cultural Mission….Preserving Our Heritage, Advancing The Future
Aare Adetola Emmanuel King Congratulates Hon. Adesola Ayoola-Elegbeji on Election Victory
The Chairman/CEO of Adron Group, Sir Aare Adetola Emmanuel King KOF, has congratulated Hon. Adesola Ayoola-Elegbeji on her resounding victory in the just-concluded by-election for the Remo Federal Constituency seat in the House of Representatives.
In a goodwill message issued by him, he described the victory as “a historic moment for the Remo people, coming at a time when the constituency yearns for a leader with vision, courage, and genuine commitment to service.”
He noted that the outcome of the election was an attestation to the trust and confidence reposed in Hon. Ayoola-Elegbeji by the people, adding that her sterling qualities, integrity, accessibility, and compassion for the grassroots had endeared her to the electorate.
“The overwhelming support you garnered at the polls is proof that you are the right voice at the right time to carry the aspirations of Remo to the national stage,” he stated.
While acknowledging that the by-election followed the painful demise of the late Hon. Adewunmi Oriyomi Onanuga (Ijaya), Aare Adetola Emmanuel King said Hon. Ayoola-Elegbeji’s emergence symbolizes the continuity of purposeful representation. He expressed confidence that she would not only sustain the legacy of her predecessor but also surpass it with new energy, innovative ideas, and progressive leadership.
The Adron Group Chairman further prayed for divine wisdom, strength, and compassion for the Member-Elect as she assumes office, expressing confidence that her tenure will usher in meaningful development, economic empowerment, and greater opportunities for the people of Remo Federal Constituency.
Olowu Celebrates Former Military President, Ibrahim Babangida, At 84
Olowu of Kuta, HRM Oba Dr Hammed Oyelude Makama, CON, Tegbosun III, has congratulated former military president, Gen Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida, rtd, who is 84 today.
Olowu, in a statement he signed, eulogised the former military ruler for his modest achievements while he was in power.
According to Olowu, ” IBB is an enigma. He has carved a niche for himself as a former military president. His tenure witnessed the completion of many monumental legacy projects that are still visible today. His Hill Top Mansion in Minna has become a Mecca of sorts for those who aspired to lead Nigeria.”
Olowu, who described Gen Babangida as being grossly misunderstood, said history would be kind to him.
He said, “The launch of Gen Babangida’s Autobiography: ‘A Journey In Service’, and the testimonies from the likes of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Africa’s richest man, Aliko Dangote, Tony Elumelu, Jim Ovia, Abdusalam Rabiu, Oil Magnate, Arthur Eze, and many others, testified to his goodwill despite leaving public office three decades ago.
” On behalf of myself, my Oloris and Olowu-In-Council.
All members of the defunct IBB Vision 2003 and Vision 2007, I wish President Ibrahim Babangida, rtd, a happy birthday. I also wish him all the best as he aged gracefully,” Olowu added.
Born on August 17, 1941, Gen Ibrahim Babangida, rtd, ruled Nigeria from 1985 to 1993.
His presidency was marked by significant political and economic reforms.
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