Tinubu pledges stronger ties with Taraba as Governor Kefas joins APC

By Kunle Sanni –

President Bola Tinubu has pledged a stronger development partnership with Taraba State following the defection of Governor Agbu Kefas to the All Progressives Congress (APC).

Vice President Kashim Shettima, who represented the president at a grand reception held in Jalingo on Saturday to formally receive the governor into the ruling party, said Taraba is strategic to Nigeria’s food and energy security.

Shettima announced that President Tinubu had directed him to assure Governor Kefas of his full acceptance within the APC and a continued relationship focused on the development of the state.

According to the vice president, the decision to welcome Taraba into the APC fold reflects the party’s commitment to national unity and balanced development. He noted that the state plays a critical role in agriculture, energy resources and national stability.

He said the APC was established as a unifying platform for Nigeria’s diverse regions, adding that Taraba’s entry into the ruling party strengthens political, economic and strategic cooperation at the national level.

Shettima described Governor Kefas’ defection as a move rooted in governance partnership rather than political isolation, noting that progress is achieved faster when leadership aligns vision with structure.

Also speaking at the event, the Deputy Senate President, Senator Jibrin Barau, who represented Senate President Godswill Akpabio, congratulated Governor Kefas, describing his decision as beneficial to the development of Taraba State. He said the move would enhance agriculture, infrastructure and economic growth, adding that the National Assembly supports the decision.

The National Chairman of the APC, Prof. Nentawe Yilwatda, also welcomed the governor, saying his defection would accelerate development in the state by aligning Taraba with the Federal Government.