Charting a New Course for
Economic Transformation in Taraba State
Taravest 2025The Taraba International Investment Summit (Taravest 2025) has firmly positioned Taraba State as an emerging economic powerhouse. Held in Jalingo, the event brought together business magnates, policy leaders, international investors, and financial institutions to explore opportunities across agriculture, energy, infrastructure, and financial services.
This summit was a turning point in efforts to attract sustainable investments, foster economic expansion, and enhance job creation in Taraba.
Keynote Speeches from Industry and Government Leaders
Aliko Dangote’s Call for Strengthening Local Investment
Africa’s wealthiest businessman, Aliko Dangote, emphasized the necessity of fostering local investment before seeking foreign investors. He asserted:
“Foreign investors will only come when they see local investors thriving. Taraba has immense potential in agriculture and energy, and with the right policies, it can become a model for sustainable investment.”
Dangote reaffirmed his commitment to expanding agro-processing businesses, particularly in rice, sugar, and dairy production, harnessing Taraba’s fertile land for large-scale industrial farming.
Tony Elumelu’s Vision for Economic Inclusion
Billionaire investor Tony Elumelu, representing Transcorp Group and the Tony Elumelu Foundation, reiterated his dedication to empowering entrepreneurs. He emphasized:
“Investment helps to create jobs, curb unemployment, improve security, and empower people. Taraba presents an incredible opportunity to build industries that directly impact communities.”
Elumelu further announced UBA Bank’s expansion into Taraba, ensuring improved financial inclusion and accessibility of loans for small-scale enterprises.
Vice President Kashim Shettima’s Assurance of Federal Support
Speaking on behalf of President Bola Tinubu, Vice President Kashim Shettima lauded Taraba’s strategic advantages in hydroelectric power and agribusiness. He highlighted:
“Taraba must accelerate industrialization to match Nigeria’s growing population. Security and energy access remain critical for investor confidence.”
The Vice President reaffirmed federal support for the Mambila Hydroelectric Project, pledging accelerated construction timelines to unlock renewable energy solutions for the entire region.
Governor Agbu Kefas’ Commitment to Economic Growth
Taraba State Governor Agbu Kefas outlined his administration’s bold economic strategy, focusing on improving infrastructure, security, and investment policies. He emphasized:
“Taraba is open for business. My administration is working tirelessly to create an investor-friendly environment, improving regulations and ensuring stability.”
The Governor also received recognition from traditional leaders and community representatives for maintaining peace and fostering economic collaborations across ethnic and regional divides.
Sultan of Sokoto’s Call for Unity and Sustainable Development
His Eminence, Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar III, the Sultan of Sokoto, delivered a powerful speech emphasizing the role of traditional institutions in fostering economic growth and stability. He stated:
“Taraba is blessed with abundant resources, but true prosperity comes when we harness them responsibly and inclusively. Investment should not only be about profit—it must uplift communities and strengthen our unity as a nation.”
The Sultan commended Governor Agbu Kefas for bringing together leaders from diverse sectors, reinforcing the importance of collaboration between government, private investors, and traditional institutions in driving sustainable development.
Major Investment Announcements at Taravest 2025
Agriculture & Agro-Processing
- Dangote Group to invest ₦100 billion in rice and sugar production, including the establishment of new processing plants.
- Olam Nigeria to expand cocoa and sesame farming operations, aiming to double export volumes within three years.
Energy & Infrastructure
- Federal Government to fast-track the Mambila Hydroelectric Power Project with a ₦300 billion allocation.
- Transcorp Group to partner with Taraba State on renewable energy projects, delivering off-grid solutions for rural communities.
Financial Services & SMEs
- UBA launches an SME financing initiative offering flexible loans to small businesses in Taraba.
- Development Bank of Nigeria (DBN) pledges ₦50 billion in funding for agricultural startups and local enterprises.
- TAJ Bank to inject ₦5 billion into agriculture-based businesses across the state.
🎥 Video Highlights from Taravest 2025
Aliko Dangote’s Speech at Taravest 2025
Economic Outlook: Dangote, Elumelu, and Rewane’s Insights
Governor Agbu Kefas on Investment Expansion in Taraba
Sultan of Sokoto’s Speech at Taravest 2025
Conclusion
Taravest 2025 marked a pivotal shift in Taraba’s economic transformation, reinforcing its position as an attractive investment destination. With multi-billion naira commitments from Dangote, Elumelu, and other business leaders, Taraba is poised for rapid industrial and financial growth.