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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.
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BREAKING: SGF George Akume, Other APC Chieftains Back ATM’s Ondo North Senate Bid
Chief Abdul Tunji Mohammed (ATM), APC frontrunner for Ondo North Senatorial District, has secured the blessings of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume, and other party chieftains as his 2027 bid gains ground.
ATM met with the SGF and top APC leaders in Abuja, where he presented his agenda for Ondo North and sought their counsel. The meeting was described as cordial and strategic.
Senator Akume hailed ATM’s vision and readiness for national service. “The Senate needs men of capacity who understand governance. You have my support. Go and deliver for your people,” the SGF stated.
Responding, ATM said the backing of Senator Akume and other party chieftains was “a major boost.” He added: “Their encouragement strengthens our resolve to give Ondo North a strong, connected voice in the Senate.”
The consultation follows ATM’s purchase of the APC nomination form and earlier endorsements from former Deputy Governor Ali Olanusi, first-class monarchs, and youth groups in Ondo North.
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Sofela Salutes Workers, Calls Them Pillars of Ogun Central’s Progress
Solanke Ayomideji Taiwo
The Senatorial Aspirant for Ogun Central under the All Progressives Congress (APC), Emmanuel Adebola Sofela, has extended warm felicitations to workers across the district in celebration of the 2026 International Workers’ Day.
In a goodwill message released to mark the global event, Sofela praised the resilience, diligence, and unwavering commitment of workers in Abeokuta South, Abeokuta North, Odeda, Obafemi-Owode, Ifo, and Ewekoro Local Government Areas, noting that their contributions remain central to the growth and development of Ogun Central and Nigeria at large.
Describing workers as the “engine room of progress,” Sofela acknowledged the sacrifices made daily by individuals in both the public and private sectors. He emphasized that from civil servants and entrepreneurs to artisans, traders, and professionals, every category of worker plays a vital role in sustaining the economy and strengthening the social fabric of the region.
“On this special occasion of International Workers’ Day, I celebrate the hardworking men and women across Ogun Central whose dedication and commitment continue to drive our collective progress,” the statement read. “Your efforts, whether seen or unseen, form the foundation upon which our communities thrive.”
Sofela highlighted the importance of recognizing and rewarding hard work, stressing that workers deserve not only commendation but also improved welfare, fair opportunities, and an enabling environment to maximize their potential. He called for renewed focus on policies that prioritize job creation, economic empowerment, and sustainable development.
The senatorial hopeful also paid special tribute to workers in essential services, including healthcare personnel, security operatives, teachers, and sanitation workers, who he said consistently demonstrate exceptional courage and responsibility, often under challenging conditions.
“You remain the backbone of our society, standing firm in service even in difficult times. Your dedication inspires hope and strengthens our resolve to build a better future,” he added.
Reaffirming his commitment to the people of Ogun Central, Sofela assured that his aspiration is driven by a desire to advocate for workers’ rights, promote inclusive growth, and support initiatives that will enhance productivity and improve living standards across the district.
As Workers’ Day is celebrated worldwide, his message resonates as both a tribute and a call to action—recognizing the invaluable role of workers while emphasizing the need for sustained efforts to uplift and empower them.
Across Ogun Central, the celebration served as a reminder that behind every achievement lies the dedication of hardworking individuals whose contributions continue to shape the present and secure the future.
Happy International Workers’ Day.
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Chief Abdul Tunji Mohammed (ATM) Picks APC Senate Nomination Form for Ondo North
Chief Abdul Tunji Mohammed (ATM), the Balogun of Ikare Land, has officially picked the All Progressives Congress (APC) Expression of Interest and Nomination Forms for the Ondo North Senatorial District ahead of the party’s primary election.
Chief ATM obtained the forms at the APC National Secretariat in Abuja on Thursday, signaling his formal entry into the 2027 senatorial race. He was accompanied by party leaders, youth groups, and supporters from across the six local government areas of Ondo North.
Speaking shortly after picking the forms, Chief ATM said the move was in response to “persistent calls from traditional rulers, elders, women, and youths of Ondo North who desire effective and people-centered representation.”
“My aspiration is not about me. It is about restoring the voice of Ondo North, attracting federal presence, and creating jobs for our youth,” ATM stated. “With the support of our leaders and the grace of God, we are ready for the primary and the general election.”
Party faithful who thronged the secretariat described ATM as “the most prepared and acceptable aspirant,” citing his recent endorsements by former Deputy Governor Ali Olanusi, first-class traditional rulers, and the Ondo North Youth Alliance (ONYA).
Chief ATM reaffirmed his commitment to party unity and a clean, issue-based campaign. He called on delegates to prioritize competence and track record during the primaries.
The APC is expected to announce dates for screening and primary elections in the coming weeks.
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