Taraba not poor, resources underutilised, mismanaged by govt — Nyameh

Professor Jerome Nyameh, the Accord Party’s candidate for governor of Taraba State, has asserted that the state is not impoverished, but its major hurdle lies in the underutilisation and poor management of its abundant natural resources. Speaking in Jalingo, Nyameh highlighted Taraba’s vast potential, noting the abundance of agricultural land, minerals, forests, water resources, and tourism opportunities.

He argued that previous administrations had failed to capitalize on these assets for sustainable development, attributing Taraba’s economic challenges not to a scarcity of resources but to inadequate planning, misguided management, and an absence of a conducive investment environment. Nyameh maintained that, with effective leadership and transparency, Taraba could generate substantial internal revenue and create employment opportunities for its burgeoning population.

The candidate emphasized the agricultural sector’s potential to drive the state’s economy, particularly through mechanized farming, agro-processing, enhanced market access, and value chain development. He also stressed the need for responsible exploration of Taraba’s mineral resources, advocating for strict regulations to mitigate environmental damage while ensuring that local communities and the state reap the benefits.

Taraba’s tourism sector—rich in mountains, forests, wildlife, and other natural attractions—could attract visitors and generate revenue if properly developed and marketed. Nyameh called for investments in essential infrastructure such as roads, electricity, water supply, and healthcare to unlock rural communities’ economic potential. He urged a government committed to development to move beyond empty rhetoric and create policies that convert Taraba’s natural wealth into tangible benefits for its citizens.

Nyameh advocated for a governance framework anchored in accountability, efficient resource utilization, and partnerships with the private sector to spur economic growth. He expressed optimism that, if properly managed, Taraba could emerge as one of Nigeria’s leading economic hubs. He urged the people of Taraba to demand accountability from political leaders and support policies that foster sustainable development, job creation, and improved living standards throughout the state.