Taraba Is Not Poor, We Are Mismanaging Our Resources — Accord Governorship Candidate Nyameh

Accord Party governorship candidate in Taraba State, Professor Jerome Nyameh, has challenged the perception that the state is poor, arguing that its biggest problem is the failure to properly utilise its vast natural and human resources.

Speaking in Jalingo on Monday, Nyameh said Taraba has enough agricultural land, mineral deposits, forests, water resources and tourism assets to build a stronger economy and improve living standards.

He blamed successive administrations for failing to turn those resources into sustainable economic opportunities. According to him, weak planning, poor management and the absence of a strong investment environment have limited the state’s development.

“Taraba is not poor. We are blessed with natural resources, but these resources have been underutilised and mismanaged,” Nyameh said.

The Accord candidate identified agriculture as one of the sectors capable of transforming the state’s economy. He proposed greater investment in mechanised farming, agro-processing, market access and agricultural value chains, saying these could increase local production, create jobs and raise government revenue.

Nyameh also called for responsible development of Taraba’s mineral resources. He said mining must be properly regulated to protect the environment while ensuring that the government and host communities receive meaningful benefits from the sector.

Tourism, he added, remains another largely untapped opportunity. He pointed to Taraba’s mountains, forests, wildlife and other natural attractions as potential drivers of tourism revenue if supported by proper infrastructure, investment and promotion.

He said roads, electricity, water supply and healthcare must also be improved, particularly in rural communities, if Taraba is to unlock its economic potential. Nyameh argued that effective governance should focus on accountability, efficient use of public funds and partnerships with the private sector rather than political promises.

The governorship candidate expressed confidence that Taraba could become a major economic hub if its resources were properly managed and residents were given greater opportunities to participate in the state’s development. He urged voters to demand accountability from political leaders and support policies focused on job creation, sustainable development and better living conditions.