Taraba Approves N500m Start Up Fund For Youth Empowerment



To combat joblessness and stimulate the economy, the Governor of Taraba State, Agbu Kefas, has sanctioned the sum of five hundred million naira to support youth enterprise start ups. Kefas revealed this initiative on Friday during a statewide broadcast originating from Jalingo in commemoration of his third year in office, noting that the empowerment scheme is slated to take off in June 2026. According to the governor, the funding falls under comprehensive reforms designed to foster youth inclusion, infrastructure expansion, and overall economic development.

Speaking during the address, Kefas stated, "Our administration strongly believes that the future of Taraba State depends largely on the empowerment and development of young people," He further detailed that the state government had already deployed biometric data capturing systems to establish an accurate database for youth development planning and related empowerment projects. He added, "Presently, 296 youths have successfully registered under the programme, and the government has approved the release of Five Hundred Million Naira for starter packs, scheduled to commence in June 2026,"

The governor also pointed out that his administration had successfully separated the Youth Development Agency and the Sports Commission into distinct entities to guarantee dedicated focus on both sectors. Highlighting infrastructure developments, he mentioned that the Federal Government was giving due attention to the proposed Ibi Bridge spanning the River Benue, while feasibility studies were actively progressing for additional bridge projects situated along the Chinkai and Karim Lamido corridors. Regarding the impact of the infrastructure, he noted, "These projects are expected to improve connectivity, enhance trade, and stimulate economic activities across the State,"

In addition to the bridge projects, Kefas confirmed the continuation of various road construction efforts across Taraba, which include the Mararaba Biassa Abong Road, Takum Lissam Road, Wukari Kente Chinkai Road, and township roads in Jalingo and Wukari. Turning to the educational sector, the governor recalled that his administration had announced a state of emergency upon taking office in 2023. He explained, "One of the earliest decisions of this administration was the declaration of a state of emergency in education. We took deliberate steps to expand access to free and compulsory basic education, improve learning environments and restore confidence in the future of our children." Concluding his address, Kefas addressed the healthcare sector, affirming that his government had successfully upgraded hospitals and improved access to medical services throughout the state by executing vital equipment and infrastructure interventions.

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