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*Taraba will Provide Land for Investors* Taraba State governor, Dr Agbu Kefas, has declared that Taraba state is now open to investors who wish to explore the state's vast potentials. He said the state will provide land with Certificate of Occupancy (C of O) to any willing investor. The governor made the remarks at the Gala Night event organised for the diplomatic community that attended the just concluded one day international business summit in Jalingo. The international business summit that featured submissions by various key speakers lauded the governor's effort. They noted that it was the first time any governor would gather an array of diplomats and captain of industry on that scale. The Vice President, Kashim Shettima, who represented the Special Guest of Honour, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, remarked that Taraba state is blessed with all the factors of production. He said the state will continue to experience accelerated growth and development in the coming years with the governor's level of commitment and drìvè. President Tinubu noted further that the investment summit has demonstrated the willingness of the political class to work with private partners to enhance revenues. In his own comment, Chairman of the Dangote Group of Companies, Alhaji Aliko Dangote, applauded the initiative. He urged Governor Kefas to encourage domestic investors, stressing that foreign investors will always be attracted to internal efforts. In another goodwill message, the CEO of the United Bank of Africa (UBA) Mr. Tony Elumelu said he would invest more in Taraba state. He noted that investments also thrive when businesses are assured of security, good roads, and a steady supply of power. Responding, Governor Kefas said his efforts are geared towards further opening up the state. He said the Danbaba Suntai Airport, Jalingo, has been upgraded to meet international standards. He noted that Taraba state is now among the safest states for businessmen to live and work. He assured investors of his commitments to liberal business policies to reduce bottlenecks and unnecessary hiccups. *Emmanuel Bello* Special Adviser Media and Digital Communications to the Governor of Taraba state


*Kenyan Tea Giant, Kipchimchim, to Partner with Mambilla Beverages Production Limited* The Mambilla Beverages Production Factory is poised for expansion and quality improvement following a successful meeting between the factory's management, representatives from Kipchimchim Group of Company, and state government officials. During the visit, Chief Barr. Gebon Timothy Kataps, Secretary to the Government and Chairman of the Governing Board of Mambilla Beverages, expressed gratitude to the Kipchimchim Group for their efforts and professional advice. He assured the Kipchimchim representatives of the state government's commitment to ensure Mambilla Beverages operates optimally with increased production capacity. Among the delegation were, Rt. Hon. Abel Peter Diah, former Speaker of the Taraba State House and current representative for the Mbamnga State House constituency; Hon. Nelson Cyprain Len, member representing the Nguroje State House constituency; Hon. Happy Noku, representing the Ardo-Kola State House constituency; Hon. Peter George, Commissioner for Trade, Commerce, and Industry; and Hon. Shonzen Bernard, Commissioner for Waste Management. Responding to the warm reception, Mr. Brain Soi, Team Leader of the Kipchimchim Group, commended the state government for its hospitality. He reiterated that their visit aligns with the earlier agreement made with the government and expressed satisfaction with the progress. Mr. Soi highlighted the natural blessings of the state and the company's eagerness to collaborate and make Mambilla Tea stand out. The Access Bank Zonal Head of Commercial Banking, North East, Mr. Alexius Ayabam, expressed readiness to partner with the state government to ensure professional output and delivery of highland tea to the world market. The Managing Director of Mambilla Beverages Production, Dr. Abubakar Kara, appreciated the state government's support and looked forward to a successful partnership with Kipchimchim Group.


*ASUU Warns of Imminent Strike, Accuses Tinubu Administration of Broken Promises and Corruption* The Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) has issued a strong warning that it may soon embark on a nationwide strike, citing the Federal Government’s persistent failure to address longstanding issues in Nigeria’s university system. The union, now led by its new president, Professor Chris Piwuna, has declared that its patience has been exhausted after years of unfulfilled promises, bureaucratic inefficiencies, and what it describes as endemic corruption within the administration of President Bola Tinubu. ASUU’s grievances center on the government’s failure to implement critical aspects of the 2009 FGN/ASUU Agreement, a recurring source of tension over the past decade. The union lists nine unresolved issues, including: 1. The renegotiation process, which began in 2017, remains incomplete. 2. ASUU accuses the government of delaying tactics and failing to sign off on recommendations from various committees, including the Yayale Ahmed Committee and the Nimi Briggs-led Renegotiation Committee. 3. The government promised to release ₦150 billion for university revitalization to address poor infrastructure, inadequate facilities, and outdated curricula. However, ASUU says this pledge remains unfulfilled. 4. ASUU members are still owed backlog payments, including ₦50 billion in earned academic allowances and salaries withheld during the 2022 strike. 5. Despite a directive to remove universities from the Integrated Personnel and Payroll Information System (IPPIS), lecturers continue to be paid through the platform, which ASUU argues undermines university autonomy and causes payment delays. 6. The dissolution of university governing councils in June 2024 led to a vacuum in university administration, affecting key appointments and promotions. 7. Although new appointments have recently been made, ASUU maintains that autonomy is still being eroded by political interference. 8. The unchecked establishment of new universities without adequate funding or planning is another major concern, as it strains already limited resources. 9. ASUU alleges that funds meant for the Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund) are being diverted to other initiatives, such as the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND), further undermining university funding. The union highlights ongoing issues of victimization, salary denial, and job insecurity, particularly in state universities like Kogi State University and Lagos State University. Professor Piwuna, at his first press conference as ASUU president, delivered a scathing critique of the Tinubu government, accusing it of benefiting from the insecurity plaguing parts of the country and failing to demonstrate genuine commitment to resolving the union’s demands. He described the administration as marked by “institutional weaknesses, bureaucratic inefficiencies, and endemic corruption,” which, in his view, have undermined governance at all levels. “We have exhausted our patience in waiting for this renegotiated agreement... The government has made promises, but we are still waiting for fulfillment. Nothing has significantly changed in the last two years,” Piwuna stated. ASUU has made it clear that it will not remain passive while its members’ rights are trampled. The union has issued various ultimatums, including a recent two-week deadline for the reinstatement of university governing councils and a 21-day notice to address outstanding issues. If the government fails to act, ASUU says it will have no choice but to call for industrial action, potentially shutting down public universities nationwide. While the Federal Government claims to have addressed a significant portion of ASUU’s demands, the union insists that no major issue has been permanently resolved. Recent moves, such as the appointment of new governing council members, are seen as steps in the right direction but not sufficient to avert a strike unless all outstanding issues are comprehensively addressed. ASUU has reiterated its openness to dialogue but warns that only concrete action—not promises—will prevent another disruptive strike in Nigeria’s public universities. ASUU’s threat of a nationwide strike stems from deep frustration over the government’s failure to honor agreements, release promised funds, address salary and allowance backlogs, respect university autonomy, and tackle corruption in the education sector. The union’s patience, it says, has run out, and unless urgent steps are taken, another round of industrial action appears imminent.


*Showcasing Compassion: Taraba SEMA's Efforts in Supporting IDPs* Taraba SEMA, under the leadership of Executive Secretary Dr. Audu Echuseh, is making a profound impact on the lives of internally displaced persons (IDPs) at the Lau camp. By providing essential items such as cooked food, drinks, bread, and more, Taraba SEMA is addressing the physical needs of IDPs while demonstrating compassion and empathy. Dr. Echuseh and her team have gone above and beyond, dining with IDPs, offering psychological support, and aligning their efforts with the vision of His Excellency Dr. Agbu Kefas. This humanitarian support is crucial for IDPs coping with trauma and displacement. IDPs often face significant challenges, including limited access to basic necessities like shelter, water, and healthcare. Organizations like Taraba SEMA play a vital role in bridging this gap, providing critical support to those affected. Taraba SEMA's efforts demonstrate the power of humanitarian work and its impact on individuals and communities. By showcasing love, passion, and commitment to humanity, Dr. Echuseh and her team are making a real difference in the lives of those they serve.


*ALGON CHAIRMAN, HON. (DR.) AMINU JAURO HASSAN CONGRATULATES CAN CHAIRMAN* 23/05/2025 The ALGON Chairman of Taraba State, who also serves as the Executive Chairman of Jalingo Local Government Council, Hon. (Dr.) Aminu Jauro Hassan, has extended his heartfelt congratulations to Rev. Fr. William Awoshiri Ph.D on his election as the Chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Taraba State Chapter. In his congratulatory message, Dr. Hassan described Dr. Awaloshiri’s emergence as well-deserved, reflecting the collective confidence the Christian community has in his leadership. He expressed optimism that under Dr. Awaloshiri’s stewardship, CAN will continue to promote unity, peace, and moral guidance across the state. He further emphasized the importance of religious harmony in Taraba State, applauding CAN’s role in fostering peaceful coexistence and mutual respect among various faiths. Dr. Hassan prayed for wisdom, strength, and divine guidance for the new CAN Chairman as he assumes the mantle of leadership and called on all stakeholders to give him the needed support to succeed in his new role.


*Kenyan Tea Giant, Kipchimchim, to Partner with Mambilla Beverages Production Limited* The Mambilla Beverages Production Factory is poised for expansion and quality improvement following a successful meeting between the factory's management, representatives from Kipchimchim Group of Company, and state government officials. During the visit, Chief Barr. Gebon Timothy Kataps, Secretary to the Government, expressed gratitude to the Kipchimchim Group for their effort and professional advice. He assured the Kipchimchim representatives of the state government's collaboration to ensure Mambilla Beverages operates optimally with increased production capacity. The delegation was led by notable members, including Rt. Hon. Abel Peter Diah, former Speaker of the Taraba State House and current representative for the Mbamnga State House constituency; Hon. Nelson Cyprain Len, member representing the Nguroje State House constituency; Hon. Happy Noku, representing the Ardo-Kola State House constituency; Hon. Peter George, Commissioner for Trade, Commerce, and Industry; and Hon. Shonzen Bernard, Commissioner for Waste Management. Responding to the warm reception, Mr. Brain Soi, Team Leader of the Kipchimchim Group, commended the state government for its hospitality. He reiterated that their visit aligns with the earlier agreement made with the government and expressed satisfaction with the progress. Mr. Soi highlighted the natural blessings of the state and the company's eagerness to collaborate and make Mambilla Tea stand out. The Access Bank Zonal Head of Commercial Banking, North East, Mr. Alexius Ayabam, expressed readiness to partner with the state government to ensure professional output and delivery to the world market. The Managing Director of Mambilla Beverages Production, Dr. Abubakar Kara, appreciated the state government's support and looked forward to a successful partnership with Kipchimchim Group.


*With Gratitude to Governor Kefas, Kakara Tea MD Achieves Labor Peace and Leads Bold Expansion Efforts* In a significant development for the tea industry in Nigeria, the Managing Director of Kakara Tea—part of Mambilla Beverages Limited Dr Abubakar Kara—has announced notable progress in addressing longstanding labor issues and driving the factory’s ambitious expansion plans. The MD *Dr Abubakar Kara* reported that the factory has successfully tackled the persistent labor disruptions, particularly the frequent strikes that have hampered productivity in recent years. By implementing new management strategies and fostering improved relations with staff, the factory has stabilized its workforce, ensuring consistent tea production and processing. This breakthrough is a major relief for both employees and the local economy, which relies heavily on the tea sector for employment and income. With labor issues under control, the MD has been at the forefront of a major expansion initiative. Kakara Tea, located on the Mambilla Plateau in Taraba State, is the largest tea plantation in West Africa, covering over 600 hectares. The expansion aims to not only increase production capacity but also enhance the quality and reach of Kakara’s signature Highland and Green Tea products. Plans include upgrading factory equipment, expanding distribution channels, and exploring partnerships with foreign investors to extend the brand’s presence beyond Nigeria. The MD expressed deep appreciation to the Taraba State Governor, Dr Agbu Kefas, for his administration’s pivotal support. These developments promise to create more jobs, boost local entrepreneurship, and increase revenue for Taraba State. The tea factory, already a cornerstone of the local economy, is poised to become an even greater source of livelihood for thousands of families on the Mambilla Plateau. The MD of Kakara Tea Dr Abubakar Kara has not only resolved critical labor issues but is also piloting a robust expansion strategy, with strong backing from the state government. As the factory grows, it stands as a model for sustainable Agricultural development and public-private partnership in Nigeria.


*How Dr. Agbu Kefas’ Visionary Leadership is Transforming Mambilla Beverages Through Global Partnerships* In a remarkable development for Taraba State, Governor Dr. Agbu Kefas has once again demonstrated visionary leadership by securing a strategic partnership between Mambilla Beverages and a renowned Kenyan tea factory. Industry experts say this collaboration is far more than a routine business transaction—it represents a significant step forward for the state’s economy, with the potential to unlock immense value for the local tea industry. Analysts in the development sector believe this partnership will elevate the quality, reach, and competitiveness of Mambilla’s tea products, opening new markets and creating sustainable employment opportunities for the people of Taraba State. Dr. Agbu’s foresight and unwavering commitment to innovation are being hailed as key drivers of this progress, signaling a brighter future not only for Taraba but for Nigeria as a whole. Observers note that this alliance stands as a testament to what can be achieved when leaders look beyond borders and invest in meaningful, long-term growth. With Dr. Agbu Kefas at the helm, expectations are high that Mambilla Beverages will soon emerge as a beacon of excellence within Africa’s agro-processing sector. The future, it seems, is indeed bright for Taraba State.


*Mambilla Beverages Collaborates with Kipchimchim Group, Set for Plantation Expansion* In a major boost for the Mambilla Beverages Limited, Kakara, the renowned Kenyan tea company Kipchimchim has expressed readiness to collaborate with the Taraba-based beverage producer. This follows a high-level visit by a delegation from Kipchimchim to the Mambilla Tea Estate, where they conducted a thorough inspection of the plantation and processing facilities. Impressed by the quality of the tea farm and the potential for large-scale production, the Kenyan experts acknowledged the unique climatic and soil conditions of the Mambilla Plateau, which mirror those of Kenya’s own top-producing regions. This similarity provides a strong basis for technical and commercial collaboration between the two companies. As part of the partnership, technical staff from Mambilla Beverages will be sent to Kenya for professional training in advanced tea processing and plantation management techniques. This training aims to upgrade the company’s production standards to meet global export quality and enhance operational efficiency. The partnership also comes at a critical time as Mambilla Beverages prepares for its next phase of expansion, which is expected to create employment opportunities for over 5,000 applicants across various roles in the plantation and processing factory. This collaboration is a strategic move that will not only improve the quality of Mambilla tea but also position the company to compete favorably on the international stage, leveraging Kipchimchim’s decades of expertise and market reach. The initiative is set to open new doors for trade, knowledge exchange, and economic development in Taraba State and beyond. Premium reporters


*Director Sports Harp on Discipline of Athletes as Taraba Eyes Gold in Badminton* Taraba State Director of Sports George Shitta,has harped on discipline of athletes at the ongoing National Sports Festival in Ogun State. In an interview,the Director said discipline should be the watch word of the athletes in order to make Governor Agbu Kefas who released fund for the festival and the entire people of Taraba State who are standing by the team to be proud. He explained that the athletes are in high spirit to do battle with athletes from different parts of the country. George Shitta, appreciated the colourful display of team Taraba during the opening ceremony of the festival who are among the best kitted through the effort of Governor Agbu Kefas. The Director however said there is central accomodation and feeding for all athletes dismissing reports that they are starving and stranded. He advised those peddling fake news to desist forthwith for the interest of sports development in Taraba State. George Shitta,maintained that it is the tradition at festival after initial allowance are paid before departure others be paid in full at mid festival to enable athletes concentrate and focus to win medals. The Director said since the festival has reached half all allowances of the Athletes will be paid today. He expressed confidence on the team to finish well at the event. At the games Taraba State have reached quarter finals of badminton singles,Boxing and Chess while other games are yet to commence as at the time of filing this report.
