Taraba state government and the China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation (CCECC) have agreed on a partnership aimed at accelerating the development of the state’s energy, infrastructure and economy.
The meeting which took place in Abuja followed recent discussions between Governor Agbu Kefas and CCECC President, Mr. Chan Sichang, during the governor’s visit to Beijing, China.
The meeting, which was chaired by Governor Kefas, had prominent members of the Taraba state government, legislators, technical experts, and sons of the state in attendance
In his opening remarks, the governor stressed the vast potential of the state in becoming a leader in energy development, agricultural innovation, and infrastructure improvement.
He noted that the partnership with CCECC was critical to realising the state’s long-term development goals.
The key areas of the agreements were: Energy development – CCECC expressed strong interest in collaborating with the Taraba state to launch a new hydropower project. This initiative is set to provide sustainable and reliable power, not only to Taraba but also to neighbouring Kefas emphasised the North-eastern states; infrastructure development – the meeting also focused on the development of key infrastructure, including the rehabilitation of critical roads, bridges, and transportation systems to support economic activities across the state. CCECC reaffirmed its commitment to completing the ongoing airport rehabilitation project by December 2024, as previously promised.
Also, economic growth and food security: Both parties acknowledged the state’s vast agricultural resources and the need for investments in mechanisation, storage, and processing facilities to boost food production and ensure food security. CCECC pledged to work closely with the Taraba state government in advancing agriculture and economic development.
On its part, a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed with the Taraba state to solidify their collaboration on the discussed projects.
The MoU outlined specific modalities for cooperation and to ensure a clear roadmap for implementation.
Governor Kefas expressed satisfaction with the outcome of the meeting and praised CCECC for their readiness to work hand-in-hand with the state to turn these ambitious projects into reality.
“This partnership is a significant milestone in our journey toward transforming Taraba into a beacon of progress and development,” he said.