By Yusuf Salihu Sansani
JALINGO — Governorship candidate of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) in Taraba State, Senator Abubakar Umar Tutare, has unveiled a five-point development agenda, promising to reposition the state through strategic investments in human capital, infrastructure, agriculture, education and tourism if elected governor in 2027.
Speaking in an interview with journalists in Jalingo, Tutare said the proposed agenda was designed to address what he described as decades of underdevelopment and unlock Taraba State’s vast economic potential.
The former senator identified human capital development, infrastructural renewal, agricultural transformation, educational advancement and tourism development as the pillars of his administration, stressing that the sectors are interconnected and critical to the state’s sustainable growth.
Tutare argued that Taraba had not experienced the level of development expected since its creation in 1991, maintaining that successive administrations had fallen short of transforming the state into a modern and economically viable entity.
According to him, despite its abundant natural resources and tourism potential, Taraba continues to lag behind in infrastructure, education, agriculture and other key sectors, leaving enormous opportunities untapped.
The ADC governorship candidate also criticised the pattern of project execution in the state, alleging that major government contracts had often been awarded to firms outside Taraba with limited economic benefits for local residents.
He pledged that, if elected, his administration would prioritise the use of the state’s resources to promote local development, create jobs and improve the welfare of the people.
Tutare said his administration would focus on expanding the road network by linking the state capital with all 16 local government areas and rural farming communities to ease the movement of agricultural produce and stimulate economic activities.
He also promised to modernise Jalingo with improved infrastructure befitting a state capital.
On the 2027 governorship election, the former senator expressed confidence that the electorate would support a candidate with proven competence, experience and a genuine commitment to the development of Taraba State.
He also urged residents to reject politics based on ethnic and religious sentiments, arguing that such divisions had hindered the state’s progress over the years.
Tutare appealed to the electorate to vote for leadership anchored on credibility, experience and a clear vision for development, saying Taraba deserves leaders who understand the state’s challenges and are committed to delivering lasting economic and social transformation.
