Jalingo, Taraba State – Taraba State Governor Dr. Kefas Agbu has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to delivering democratic dividends to the people, emphasizing the importance of reaching the grassroots level.
Speaking during a five-day orientation retreat for newly elected local government chairmen and their deputies, heads of development areas, heads of local government administrations, and secretaries of the sixteen local governments, Governor Agbu stressed the significance of the retreat in equipping the newly elected officials with the necessary knowledge and skills to effectively carry out their duties.
He highlighted the crucial role of local government chairmen in driving development at the grassroots level, stating, “Your roles as Local government Chairmen is important to the development of the state.”
Governor Agbu emphasized the need for effective staff development, urging the chairmen to build the capacity of their teams to ensure efficient service delivery. He also encouraged active participation in the retreat’s discussions for optimal outcomes.
The Permanent Secretary, Bureau for Local Government and Chieftancy Affairs, Babangida Hassan, commended Governor Agbu for approving the retreat, emphasizing its role in repositioning the state’s local government system. He aligned the retreat with the governor’s vision of moving the state forward by providing democratic dividends across all sixteen local government areas.
Mr. Henry Ayamasaowei, Managing Director of Euclase Resources Limited, the organizers of the retreat, emphasized the critical role of local government in Nigerian democracy, being the level of governance closest to the people. He lauded Governor Agbu’s foresight in organizing the training, stating, “No Governor in the County have ever done this. Your Excellency, you have brought leadership system in Taraba State.”
In his presentation titled “Elected Officials and Relationship,” Mr. Adebayo Gabriel Afolayan identified conflicts between chairmen and other elected or administrative staff as a major setback in local government administration. He pointed to greed as a primary cause of these conflicts, urging officials to exercise restraint and prioritize the needs of the community. He also highlighted the detrimental effects of arrogance displayed by elected officials in fostering conflict.
Governor Agbu’s administration’s focus on grassroots development aligns with the principles of effective governance and inclusive growth. By empowering local government officials and prioritizing community engagement, the administration aims to ensure that the benefits of development reach all corners of Taraba State.