- Kefas’ Defection: Tinubu Reaffirms Commitment to Inclusive National Growth
- Shettima said the administration is guided by the belief that every region matters
- Senate President Jibrin Barau said Kefas’ decision would unlock fresh opportunities for agricultural growth, infrastructure development and economic advancement in Taraba
President Bola Tinubu has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to inclusive national development, stressing that no part of Nigeria will be neglected, following the defection of Taraba State Governor, Agbu Kefas, to the All Progressives Congress (APC).
Eko Hot Blog reports that the assurance was delivered by Vice President Kashim Shettima at a grand reception held in Jalingo on Saturday, where he described Taraba as a strategic partner in the federal government’s growth and stability agenda.
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Quoting President Tinubu, Shettima said the administration is guided by the belief that every region matters. “He has demonstrated that no region is expendable. No state is ornamental,” the Vice President said, as he pledged a stronger development partnership between the federal government and Taraba State.
Shettima explained that the President directed him to assure Governor Kefas that his decision to join the ruling party marks the beginning of closer collaboration focused on infrastructure development, economic expansion and social progress.
“My dear brother, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has asked me to assure you of your place not only in the party, but in our shared commitment to prioritise the development of our people,” he said.
Highlighting Taraba’s strategic importance, Shettima noted that the state plays a critical role in Nigeria’s food and energy security, owing to its agricultural potential, abundant water resources and mineral wealth. He described Taraba as one of the nation’s “quiet strengths” that contributes significantly to national stability and resilience.
According to him, the APC was established as a unifying platform that brings Nigeria’s diversity together around a common vision, adding that Taraba’s inclusion further strengthens the party’s political, economic and strategic outlook.
Welcoming Governor Kefas into the APC, Shettima said the defection reflects a shared understanding that effective governance thrives on partnership rather than isolation. He added that the party grows through conviction and inclusion, not compulsion.
Also speaking at the event, the President of the Senate, represented by Deputy Senate President Jibrin Barau, said Kefas’ decision would unlock fresh opportunities for agricultural growth, infrastructure development and economic advancement in Taraba. He noted that the National Assembly supports initiatives that enhance cooperation between states and the federal government.
APC National Chairman, Prof. Nantawe Yilwatda, described the defection as a catalyst for accelerated development, saying alignment with the centre would enable Taraba to benefit more from federal programmes and ongoing reforms.
In his remarks, Governor Kefas said his move to the APC was driven by the need to reposition Taraba for sustainable growth, rather than partisan considerations. He commended security agencies for maintaining peace in the state and reaffirmed his administration’s focus on youth empowerment, infrastructure and social welfare.
“This is about purpose. It is about the future of our young people, the dignity of our elders and the progress of Taraba State,” he said.
Ekiti State Governor, Biodun Oyebanji, who represented the Chairman of the Progressive Governors’ Forum and Imo State Governor, Hope Uzodimma, said Kefas’ defection would attract greater democratic dividends to Taraba, especially in agriculture and infrastructure.
The event climaxed with the presentation of the APC flag to Governor Kefas, formally recognising him as the party’s leader in Taraba State.
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