Of Taraba and a committed, forward-looking achiever

THE senator representing Taraba South Senatorial District, David Jimkuta,  believes that his job does not only stop at making  laws for the good governance of the country, but he is also motivated by a strong desire to positively impact on  the lives of his constituents. This, he does by providing them with basic social infrastructure and other amenities required to better the lives of the people of Taraba South. Senator Jimkuta also sees the provision of infrastructure and social amenities to his people as a nescessity rather than a privilege. He does this with utmost silence, but this silent disposition of the youngest senator in the 10th Assembly is being misconstrued by mischief makers who feel he has done little or nothing for his people.  Again, Jimkuta, having mentored and learnt at the feet of his political leader, Chief  David Sabo Kente, a chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC), an achiever and philanthropist par excellence, there was little or no chance that he could escape being infected with his radical political teacher’s affection for the less privileged in Taraba South Senatorial District. His quiet, yet resolute approach to leadership has established him as a committed force in driving meaningful change across his constituency. From infrastructural development to educational reform, healthcare and social empowerment, Jimkuta’s tenure is being marked by a deep commitment to improve the lives of his people.

Though often operating behind the scene, he has been at the forefront of numerous initiatives aimed at addressing the diverse needs of Southern Taraba. Under his stewardship, a range of significant legislative actions, impactful motions and community-driven projects have come to fruition, positioning him as a forward-looking leader in Nigeria’s political landscape. One of Jimkuta’s key priorities has been the passage of legislation that directly benefits his constituents and the nation at large. His sponsorship of crucial bills such as the Federal University, Wukari Bill (2024), which aims to expand educational access in the region and the Nigeria Tea Development Authority Bill (2023), which seeks to boost agricultural development and commercial activities, demonstrate his focus on long-term socio-economic empowerment. These initiatives not only addresses immediate needs, but also lay the foundation for future growth in education, agriculture and commerce.

In addition to his legislative work, the senator’s advocacy has seen him sponsor and co-sponsor vital motions addressing critical national issues. These include  investigation into MSME loan disbursements, calls for a permanent solution to the devastating effects of  Lagdo Dam flood in Southern Taraba and the promotion of food stamps to combat food insecurity across the country.  His motions on upgrading the Eastern Rail Line and advocating for farmers safety in Southern Taraba  highlight his commitment to  national progress and local concerns. His direct interventions in education, healthcare and economic empowerment have significantly improved the lives of many people, especially the youth. In December 2023, he allocated over ₦30 million to provide fuel to motorists in Southern Taraba, helping to mitigate the financial strain caused by rising fuel cost. His educational initiatives have been equally impactful, such as the sponsorship of JAMB registration fees for over 2,000 students and the ₦20 million donation to cover school fees for final-year students at Kwararafa University, Wukari. These initiatives have provided the much-needed relief to students and families, giving them greater access to education and opportunities.Under the healthcare sector, Senator Jimkuta’s generosity has also made a profound difference, as evidenced by the ₦4.75 million contribution to offset patient bills at the General Hospital Wukari, providing critical support to vulnerable residents.  His food distribution programmes, which reached the 52 wards across Southern Taraba, not only eased hunger during the festive season, but also reinforced his commitment to address the everyday needs of his people. Senator Jimkuta’s collaborative efforts have extended far beyond the borders of his senatorial zone. Through strategic partnership with various ministries, he has facilitated  projects aimed at improving the region’s connectivity. His engagement with the minister of works to complete  Ibi Bridge and other key road projects reflects his dedication to improve transportation and accessibility for his people.  Additionally, his advocacy for agricultural support with the minister of agriculture and efforts to secure disaster relief from the National Emergency Management Agency, NEMA, underscore his multifaceted approach to regional development.

On the international scene, he has worked to bring global attention to the needs of his constituency. His meetings with the Korean ambassador to explore technology transfer opportunities and discussions with Taiwanese officials to discuss trade and investment prospects, open new avenues for economic development in Southern Taraba. These international collaborations signal Jimkuta’s forward-thinking approach, seeking global partnerships to secure sustainable growth and development for his region.

On March 3, the lawmaker shocked the people of Taraba State with an unprecedented empowerment programme, adjudged by many as the first of its kind ever in the state. The event which took place at Government Secondary School, GSS, Wukari, saw the distribution of empowerment items worth over ₦2 billion.The programme benefitted residents of the five local government areas in Taraba South Senatorial District: Donga, Ibi, Takum, Ussa and Wukari.

Jimkuta’s empowerment programmes provided the people of Southern Taraba with the tools they need to succeed. Over the course of his tenure, he has distributed 70 cars, 100 motorcycles, 100 tricycles, 150 Keke Napep, 100 grinding machines, 100 freezers, 200 sewing machines, 50  washing machines and numerous agricultural tools, all aimed at increasing self-sufficiency and economic independence. His direct involvement in the provision of essential resources  solidifies his role as a champion for empowerment and social mobility.

Aside from this, Senator Jimkuta transformed  Wukari State Library to an e-library for the educational enhancement of his people. He equally influenced the reconstruction of Wukari-Akwana road at N6.4bn.

He awarded the contract for the linking of Kyaor, Jandikula, Riti, Ando Igba, Sondi, Vaase and Kente communities to the national grid, inoder to provide electricity to the people of the communities.

He magnanimously provided 70  solar street lights in Kente, the hometown of his political godfather. The people of Gindin-Dorowa in Wukari Local Government have also been provided with 70  solar street lights.

Above all, he sees his emergence as senator as an act of God’s divine grace. He puts God first in whatever he does. Recently, he supported the Christian Reformed Church of Nigeria, CRCN, Takum at the just concluded Bethel Conference. The N100 million is to assist the church provide infrastructure at the permanent conference ground at its headquarters in Takum.

Senator Jimkuta equally released N37 million to the leadership of Reformed Christian Church of Nigeria, RCCN, to support various projects  in Southern Taraba.

Through these diverse initiatives and his continued efforts to champion the cause of his people, Senator Jimkuta has proven  to be a dynamic and forward-looking leader. His quiet strength and determination to foster development in Southern Taraba have made a profound difference.

 His ongoing programmes promises even greater strides toward a brighter future for his constituency. As he continues to push for infrastructural development, socio-economic empowerment and national progress, Jimkuta’s legacy will undoubtedly inspire future generations of leaders in Nigeria.

 According to him, the empowerment was meant to make the beneficiaries, who include market women, farmers, artisans and trade associations, become self-reliant.

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“It is an ongoing exercise and I want to appeal that for those who have not received now and those who have complained, we have noted them  and we will make sure they get theirs in the future,” he said.

In summary, his example of wealth creation in Taraba South Senatorial District is worthy of emulation by politicians who want to travel far in their political journey. It is also a perfect result of a young politician that is willing to learn and take good advice from their political leaders. Jimkuta’s willingness to be rightly guided by Kente exemplifies loyalty and preparedness  to cover a long distance in his political journey.

 

•Adaji writes in from Jalingo, Taraba State.