By Ben Adaji, Jalingo
An All Progressives Congress (APC) chieftain and former governorship aspirant, Chief David Sabo Kente (DSK), has commended the growing role of the private sector in Taraba State, even as he called for greater infrastructural investment by government.
Speaking in Jalingo on Tuesday as Taraba marked its 34th anniversary, Kente noted that while hotels, schools, and shopping malls are springing up across the state, the absence of major road projects remains a concern. He urged the North East Development Commission (NEDC) to extend more interventions to Taraba, especially in road construction, as it has done in other states in the region.
“No single road has been done by the commission in Taraba State,” Kente said, suggesting that the government should appoint a consultant to engage the NEDC more effectively. He acknowledged improved security in Jalingo but maintained that the state government “needs to do a lot more” in the coming two years.
On national policies, the philanthropist-businessman said recent federal reforms—including subsidy removal, naira float, and new tax measures—have caused hardship but are “the best thing that has happened to Nigeria,” urging citizens to be patient as the benefits unfold.
Kente also pointed to the APC’s victory in the recent Karim constituency by-election as proof the party is gaining ground in Taraba, predicting a stronger showing against the PDP in 2027. “If we put our house in order, we will win,” he said.
Dismissing talk of opposition alliances, Kente expressed confidence that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu will secure re-election in 2027. “No gang-up can stop him. Nigerians will queue behind our president, and APC will sing the victory song,” he declared.
