By Yusuf Salihu Sansani, Jalingo
Taraba State Governor Dr. Agbu Kefas recently hosted a delegation from the National Hydro-electric Power Producing Areas Development Commission (N-HYPPADEC), led by Managing Director Saidu Yelwa, during a courtesy visit at the TY Danjuma House in Jalingo on Thursday, January 15, 2026.
During the meeting, Governor Kefas emphasized his administration’s commitment to collaborating closely with the Commission to enhance development across Taraba State.
He highlighted the state’s vital role as a key asset in Nigeria’s energy resources, suggesting that effective harnessing of these resources could significantly transform the region.
The governor noted the timeliness of the Commission’s visit, stating that it would help officials better grasp the pressing challenges and development needs faced by the state.
He specifically urged the Commission to address the poor state of school infrastructure in Northern Nigeria, underscoring the necessity for support in overcoming these challenges.
“Lack of adequate infrastructure in our schools prompted our decision to implement free education in secondary and primary schools in Taraba State, and we are also focused on rehabilitating and upgrading educational institutions.
Furthermore, we are developing a framework for the establishment of Smart Schools throughout Taraba State,” said Governor Kefas.
Additionally, the governor expressed gratitude to the Commission for its ongoing interventions and support for the Taraba State Government.
In his remarks, Managing Director Saidu Yelwa described the visit as significant, highlighting that development is best achieved through collaborative dialogue, mutual respect, and shared objectives among governments.
He thanked the Taraba State Government for the warm reception and reaffirmed the Commission’s commitment to the people of the state.
Yelwa elaborated that this visit is part of a broader tour of newly admitted member states of the Commission, Kaduna, Taraba, Gombe, and Nasarawa, which gained formal admission in June 2023 under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s leadership.
He acknowledged the environmental and social challenges faced by communities hosting hydroelectric power facilities, stressing the need for targeted attention, protection, and investment in these areas.
