Inside Governor Kefas’ Strategic Engagement with Nigeria’s Security Chiefs

When Governor Agbu Kefas walked into Nigeria's top security headquarters in Abuja, the visits were far more than routine courtesy calls. They were deliberate, carefully thought-out engagements aimed at reshaping Taraba State's security architecture through dialogue, trust and inter-agency cooperation.

For Taraba State and the nation's security agencies, the meetings marked a significant moment—one defined not by ceremony, but by the exchange of ideas, intelligence sharing and renewed commitment to collective action. It was a clear signal that the state's security challenges are being confronted head-on at the highest levels.

This was the second time in recent months that Governor Kefas led a high-powered delegation to engage the leadership of the Nigerian Army, Nigerian Navy, Nigeria Police Force, the Department of State Services (DSS) and the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC). Accompanied by senior government officials, the governor used the opportunity to reaffirm his administration's unwavering support for security agencies working to combat insecurity in Taraba.

Since assuming office, Governor Kefas has consistently projected security as non-negotiable. His engagements in Abuja reflected not only political responsibility but also a personal conviction shaped by his background as a retired colonel in the Nigerian Army. That background was evident in the ease with which he interacted with the service chiefs, clearly articulating Taraba's unique terrain, vulnerabilities and emerging threats, while proposing practical, collaborative solutions anchored on intelligence-led operations and rapid response.

At the Naval Headquarters, discussions focused sharply on Taraba's expansive waterways. Governor Kefas raised concerns that the state's rivers and water channels, if left unchecked, could be exploited by criminal elements. Both parties agreed on the need to intensify surveillance and joint operations, adopting a proactive approach to securing Taraba's riverine corridors before they become conduits for crime.

The visit to the Nigerian Army Headquarters carried a different tone—one of familiarity and shared professional history. For Governor Kefas, it was a homecoming of sorts. The atmosphere enabled frank and robust discussions, as he renewed his commitment to providing logistical support to military operations in Taraba. The engagement reinforced a shared understanding that peace and security in the state are a collective responsibility requiring coordinated efforts.

At the Police Headquarters, the narrative remained consistent. The focus was on sustaining peace across Taraba's communities through improved coordination and stronger institutional support. Governor Kefas' administration has earned a reputation for backing the Nigeria Police Force, a commitment acknowledged by the police high command. In recognition of this support and cooperation, the governor was honoured with an award as the "Most Police-Friendly Governor," a distinction that underscored the depth of the relationship between the state government and the police.

Perhaps the most personal engagement took place at the Department of State Services. Long-standing professional relationships framed discussions that centred on intelligence-driven security. The DSS leadership reaffirmed its resolve to work closely with the Taraba State Government to identify and neutralise threats before they escalate, reinforcing a preventive approach to security management.

Across the various meetings, security chiefs openly acknowledged the depth and seriousness of the engagements, as well as the calibre of officials in the governor's entourage. Such comprehensive, high-level interactions, they noted, are rare among sub-national leaders. Each visit was marked by full ceremonial honours and attended by top management teams of the respective agencies, reflecting the importance attached to Taraba's security concerns.

Beyond the plaques and commendations, the visits sent a clear and powerful message: Taraba State is strengthening its security framework through partnership, mutual respect and continuous dialogue. The governor's sustained engagement has also earned him profound respect within the military and security community, where his familiarity with security matters and long-standing professional networks continue to work in the state's favour.

For Governor Kefas, the objective of the visits was direct and unmistakable—to secure Taraba State, restore public confidence and create the stability required for development to take root. As the state confronts security challenges common to many parts of the country, these engagements point to an approach grounded not only in enforcement, but in foresight, cooperation and shared responsibility.