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Governor Agbu Kefas

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has pledged a stronger development partnership with Taraba State following the formal entry of Governor Agbu Kefas and his supporters into the All Progressives Congress (APC).

The announcement came during a grand reception in Jalingo on Saturday, where Vice President Kashim Shettima, representing the President, assured Governor Kefas of his full place within the ruling party and a continued focus on the development of Taraba State.

“What makes us different from other political parties is that nations endure when they recognise their quiet strengths. Taraba is one such strength a land that feeds, powers, and steadies the nation without demanding applause,” VP Shettima said.

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He emphasized that the event was not about discovering Taraba’s relevance, but acknowledging its long-standing role in national cohesion and security, particularly as the state is pivotal to Nigeria’s food and energy supply. “Today, we are affirming Taraba’s place at the centre of Nigeria’s political stability and future,” he added.

VP Shettima highlighted that the APC was conceived as a unifying platform to bring Nigeria’s diverse regions together around shared purpose. “To have Taraba firmly within this fold strengthens convergence strategically, politically, and economically. Here, fertile land meets flowing water, mineral wealth meets industrial possibility,” he said.

The Vice President also underscored that Governor Kefas’ decision reflects the principle of governance as a partnership, stating: “Leadership is the courage to align destiny with reality. Progress is faster when vision meets structure.” He praised Kefas for reinforcing the party’s values of inclusion, conviction, and performance.

Representing the Senate President, Deputy Senate President Senator Jibrin Barau congratulated Governor Kefas, stating that the move would enhance agriculture, infrastructure, and economic development in Taraba.

APC National Chairman Prof. Nantawe Yilwatda commended Kefas for leaving what he described as “the sinking PDP,” calling the decision a step toward accelerating progress and prosperity in the state.

In his remarks, Governor Kefas said his defection was not about personal ambition but about serving the youth, elders, and overall progress of Taraba. He stressed that aligning with the ruling party would enable the state to benefit fully from federal programs and policies.

Ekiti State Governor Abiodun Oyebanyi, representing the Progressive Governors’ Forum, also praised Kefas, noting that joining the APC would attract the dividends of democracy to Taraba, particularly in agriculture and infrastructure.

The event culminated with the handover of the APC flag to Governor Kefas, symbolizing his leadership of the party in Taraba State.

The reception underscored a renewed commitment by the federal government and the APC to inclusive governance, national cohesion, and accelerated development across Nigeria’s diverse regions.