By Emmanuel Awari -Jalingo
Taraba State Governor, Dr. Agbu Kefas, has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to strengthening the education sector, as it remains the foundation for sustainable development and human capital growth in the state.
The Governor stated this at the maiden convocation ceremony of Taraba State Polytechnic, held in Jalingo, where he joined other dignitaries to celebrate the institution’s historic first graduation ceremony.
He congratulated the graduating students and commended their parents, guardians, lecturers, and other stakeholders for their sacrifices and contributions toward the students’ academic success.
“Education should go beyond the acquisition of certificates, it as a tool for critical thinking, innovation, problem solving, and meaningful contributions to society.
“Governments have a responsibility not only to preserve educational institutions but also to reform and strengthen them by correcting deficiencies, restoring public confidence, and repositioning them to meet modern educational needs.
According to him, upon assuming office, his administration made a deliberate commitment to rebuilding institutions, expanding opportunities, and ensuring that every citizen has equal access to quality education regardless of background.
“This administration had provided the necessary support for the accreditation of academic programmes at the polytechnic, leading to the successful accreditation of several programmes and enhancing the institution’s academic standards – he said.
Earlier, the Commissioner for Tertiary Education, Dr Mike Dio Jen, described the maiden convocation as a landmark achievement in the history of the institution. He attributed the milestone to Governor Kefas’ declaration of a state of emergency in the education sector shortly after assuming office, which he said had transformed tertiary education across the state.
In his address, the Rector of Taraba State Polytechnic, Dr. Amos Danlami Agbu, expressed appreciation to Governor Kefas for his unwavering commitment to education, human capital development, and institutional growth.
He highlighted the administration’s interventions in the education sector and urged the graduating students to apply the knowledge and skills acquired during their studies to improve their lives and contribute to the development of their communities, Taraba State, and the nation, adding that transformation is continuous and much remains to be done.
“In May this year (2026), windstorm massively blew off many of the roofs in both campuses of the institution (Suntai and Jalingo. At the moment, the roofs remain off even as rain continues to fall. This situation has given rise to further deterioration.
“The government of the state has visited the scene through the Commissioner of Tertiary Education. The institution appeals for urgent intervention to prevent further destruction.
“Another major challenge of the institution is the lack of provision of reliable electricity at both the Jalingo and Suntai campuses. In Jalingo, the institution is not connected to 33KVA. This is why there is constant lack of light as the 11KVA it is connected to is overloaded while the situation is same in Suntai. Stable electricity is essential for effective teaching and learning, research, information technology and the general administration of the institution.
The Rector pointed out the need for the employment of additional staff in specialized areas to address manpower shortages and sustain the quality of our academic programmes.
“Security remains another important concern, and we appeal for further strengthening of security arrangements on both campuses.
“The provision of functional ambulances for both Jalingo and Suntai campuses is also an urgent need. Given the size and locations of the campuses, ambulances are essential for responding to medical emergencies and protecting the welfare of students and staff.
“We therefore appeal to His Excellency, the Executive Governor of Taraba State, Dr. Agbu Kefas, the Governing Council, development partners and other well-meaning stakeholders to continue supporting Taraba State Polytechnic. With sustained support, we are confident that the Polytechnic can achieve even greater heights and become an even stronger centre of technical and technological education.
He advice the graduating students to worked hard, overcome challenges and reached an important milestone in their lives.
“On behalf of the Governing Council, Management and the entire staff of Taraba State Polytechnic, I congratulate you warmly.As you leave this institution, remember that the certificate you receive today is only one part of your education.
“The knowledge, skills, discipline and character you have acquired should guide you throughout your lives. The society expects much from you. Wherever you find yourselves, be good ambassadors of Taraba State Polytechnic, Suntai.
Use your education to improve your lives, support your families and contribute meaningfully to the development of your communities, Taraba State and Nigeria.
“Be innovative, hardworking, disciplined and prepared to embrace opportunities wherever they arise. The world you are entering requires not only certificates but also creativity, integrity, resilience and the ability to solve problems.
The Rector appreciate the efforts of parents.
“We share in your joy today. Your sacrifices, prayers and support have contributed significantly to the success of these graduating students. We congratulate you and appreciate your commitment to their education.
“As we celebrate this convocation, let us remain committed to the vision of a stronger, more relevant and more productive Polytechnic – an institution that provides quality education, promotes technical skills, supports innovation and contributes meaningfully to the development of society.
Speaking on behalf of the graduating students, Emefo Kene commended Governor Kefas for reducing tuition fees, describing them as among the lowest in the country and noting that the policy had made higher education more affordable and accessible.
The convocation also featured goodwill messages, including one from former Taraba State Governor, Rev Jolly Nyame, as well as the commissioning of a new office complex which would serve as Mass Communication studio, by Governor Agbu Kefas.
The ceremony featured the presentation of awards to the chairman of the occasion and outstanding graduating students across various disciplines, while colourful cultural performances added excitement to the historic event.
