NEW COUNCIL CHAIRMEN URGED TO DRIVE GOVERNOR KEFAS’ VISION OF GRASSROOTS TRANSFORMATION
By Mohammed Tikka
The 16 newly inaugurated local government chairmen in Taraba State have been charged to fully embrace and implement Governor Agbu Kefas’ developmental vision as they assume office. Speaking to journalists, the Permanent Secretary of the Bureau for Local Government, Traditions and Chieftaincy Affairs, Engineer Godfrey Dame Andrew, congratulated the chairmen but reminded them that their new responsibility demands commitment, innovation, and genuine service to the people.
He emphasized that Governor Kefas’ agenda is centred on grassroots transformation, ensuring that every community enjoys access to vital amenities that improve daily living. These include quality education for every child, functional healthcare centres, clean drinking water, and reliable infrastructure that connects and supports local economies.
Engineer Andrew urged the chairmen to treat their positions as a call to serve rather than an opportunity to wield authority. He reminded them that they were elected by the people and must therefore govern with humility, accountability, and a clear focus on community needs. He encouraged them to engage closely with their constituents and deliver projects that reflect the real priorities of the people.
He also challenged the chairmen to adopt new strategies for increasing internally generated revenue, emphasizing that local governments must become more financially resourceful to meet development expectations. He highlighted youth and women empowerment, job creation, and community-driven initiatives as essential components of meaningful grassroots development.
According to him, the chairmen returning for a second term earned their renewed mandates because they demonstrated effective leadership and delivered tangible results. He urged the newly elected leaders to learn from these examples, stressing that hard work and integrity remain the surest ways to gain public trust.
Engineer Andrew commended Governor Kefas for what he described as remarkable achievements in education, security, infrastructure, agriculture, and the welfare of civil servants. He said the governor’s efforts have placed Taraba on a new trajectory of progress and stability, and it is now the duty of the 16 chairmen to complement this drive at the grassroots level.
He concluded by calling on them to work tirelessly to actualize the governor’s vision, noting that the success of Taraba’s development agenda depends heavily on effective leadership at the local government tier.
