Taraba Signs MoU with FG on Tourism Village to Boost Economy

The Taraba State Government has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Federal Ministry of Art, Culture, Tourism and Creative Economy for the establishment of a tourism village aimed at boosting economic activities in the state.

The agreement was formalised on Sunday, April 19, 2026, with Governor Agbu Kefas presiding over the ceremony held in Takum.

The Honourable Minister of Art, Culture, Tourism and Creative Economy, Barr. Hannatu Musa Musawa, signed on behalf of the Federal Government, while the Taraba State Commissioner for Heritage and Ecotourism, Hon. Joseph Titus Nagombe, signed for the state government.

Speaking at the event, Musawa said the initiative aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s economic diversification agenda, which seeks to expand Nigeria’s revenue base beyond oil by harnessing sectors such as tourism, culture, and the creative industry.

She described Taraba State as richly endowed with tourism assets, citing its cultural diversity and natural attractions as key strengths that can drive investment and economic growth.

The minister commended Governor Kefas for his vision in prioritising tourism development, noting that the project reflects a shared commitment between the federal and state governments to unlock the sector’s potential.

According to her, while the Taraba State Government will take the lead in managing the tourism village, the Federal Government will provide the necessary support to ensure successful implementation and sustainability.

Musawa further disclosed that the initiative was driven at the instance of the President and expressed optimism that work on the project would commence before the end of the year.

In his remarks, Governor Kefas expressed gratitude to President Tinubu for appointing Musawa, assuring the Federal Government of Taraba’s readiness to fully support the initiative.

He described tourism as a strategic, non-kinetic tool for addressing insecurity, stressing that investments in the sector can promote peace, unity, and economic stability.

The governor noted that the tourism village would not only attract visitors but also create employment opportunities and stimulate local businesses across the state.

Also speaking, the Commissioner for Heritage and Ecotourism, Hon. Joseph Titus Nagombe, said the project would significantly enhance the state’s development profile, adding that a suitable location for the tourism village has already been identified.

He expressed confidence that the initiative would position Taraba as a major tourism destination in Nigeria while improving the livelihoods of residents.