By Emmanuel Awari-Jalingo
The Governor of Taraba State, Dr. Agbu Kefas along with key stakeholders from Sardauna (Mambilla Plateau), conducted an inspection of the proposed site for the Taraba State University of Tropical Agriculture, Science, Technology, and Climate Action in Gembu, headquarters of Sardauna local government.
The visit underscores the governor’s commitment to enhancing educational infrastructure and fostering sustainable development across the state.
He said that the new University is designed to specialize in tropical agriculture, science, technology, and climate action, aims to equip students with critical skills to drive innovation and address regional challenges.
“The initiative is expected to stimulate the local economy, create opportunities, and uplift communities in the Mambilla Plateau region.
“This initiative highlights the my administration commitment to advancing education and development in the state.
“The University will focus on tropical agriculture, science, technology, and climate action expected to equip students with skills and knowledge to drive innovation and sustainable development in the region.
According to him, the project is likely to have a positive impact on the local economy and the community.
The Governor, while assenting the Bill for the establishing the new University, said the institution is an initiative aimed at harnessing the abundant natural resources and potentials on the Mambilla Plateau.
“The new institution will help drive the state’s actions on climate change.
“The institution, activities will boom in the area and it will attract investors, and the presence of the Federal government.
According to him, other benefits of the institution is the promotion of a bilateral relationship with the Republic of Cameroon.
He directed the state Commissioner for Tertiary Education to look for a temporary site for the institution to commence.
In his remarks, the Speaker of Taraba State House of Assembly, Rt Hon John Kizito Bonzena, said that after careful study of the bill, the house realised that it aligned with the five-point agenda of the Governor, that was why it was passed into law.
Recall that the Taraba Assembly held a public hearing on a bill seeking to establish the Taraba State University of Tropical Agriculture and Climate Action in Sardauna local government area of the State.
The bill, sponsored by lawmakers, Hon Abel Peter Diah, Hon Nelson C. Len, and Hon Abdull’Azzi Titong aims to promote agricultural innovation and tackle climate change through specialized academic programs has scale its second reading.
The proposed university seeks to harness the region’s rich agricultural potential, promote sustainable development, and offer increased educational and economic opportunities for local residents.
During the hearing, Speaker of the House, Rt. Hon. John Bonzena assured the Assembly’s commitment to supporting the bill, stating that it aligns with the state’s developmental goals.
Hon. Abel Peter Diah who spoke on behalf of the sponsors of the bill expressed gratitude for the support, emphasizing that the proposed university represents hope for the future of education, research, and climate resilience in the state.
On his part, Secretary to the Government of the State, Barrister Gebon Kataps hailed the legislative initiative as a historic breakthrough for the people of the area, stating that it will help address food security challenges and create jobs.
“The university will enhance access to higher education and research, especially for underserved highland communities on the Mambilla Plateau.
“The university is expected to stimulate the local economy and create jobs,” he said.
Speaking during the hearing, the Executive Chairman of Sardauna Local Government, Hon. Mohamed Umar said that the proposed University will create opportunities, jobs, and engage youths of the area and the state at large.
He expressed heartfelt appreciation to the Executive Governor of Taraba State, His Excellency Dr. Agbu Kefas, whom he described as a visionary leader and a true friend of the Mambilla Plateau.
He commended the sponsors of he bill, Rt. Hon. Abel Peter Diah, Hon. Abdulazeez Suleiman Titong, and Hon. Nelson C. Len for anticipating future needs and representing the true aspirations of their constituents.
“The establishment of this University is more than just a development project.
“It is a generational investment, Economically, the University will ignite a new wave of opportunities, from direct employment and increased commercial activity to housing development, youth engagement, and knowledge transfer.
“The local economy will experience a long-awaited boost, small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) will flourish, transport services will expand, and skilled labor will be attracted to the area, among many other benefits.
The Governor also commission the TY Danjuma House and inspected an ongoing Gembu – Mbamnga – Yang Lip road project, a Federal Government initiative aimed at transforming the Mambilla Plateau.
The project is expected to significantly improve infrastructure and connectivity in the region.
The governor’s inspection demonstrates his commitment to monitoring progress and ensuring that development projects benefit the people of Taraba State.
The Road project if completed will boost economic activity, enhance access to social services, and improve overall quality of life for residents in the Mambilla Plateau area.