What does it take to build a thriving Taraba? Today, we took one step closer to finding out!
I, Simon Zaku (Founder & CEO of IBIFoundry.com.ng), alongside our Principal Director, Dr. Mrs. Christie Salami Zaku, and our Legal Advisor, Bar. Hannah Fred had the honor of meeting with the Executive Governor of Taraba State, His Excellency Dr. Agbu Kefas.
The goal?
To explore how Tarabans and IBIFoundry can collaborate with the government to drive growth in Taraba, particularly in Education, and other key sectors like youth empowerment and Tech Innovation.
And that's where IbiFoundry comes in.
Key Discussions in The Meeting: A Shared Vision for Innovation, Education, and Youth Empowerment
During the meeting, I had the opportunity to share a story that perfectly captures the essence of the Governor’s vision.
There’s this suya vendor (mai suya) I know in my area - one of my regulars.
One day, as I was passing by a government school here in Taraba, I saw him smartly dressed in a school uniform. I was surprised and called out to him:
"You too dey go school?"
With a proud smile, he replied, "We no longer have any reason not to go to school. It’s free."
That moment hit me deeply. I was amazed, happy, and proud at the same time!
It wasn’t just about free education - it was about breaking barriers that had held so many back.
That’s the kind of impact His Excellency Governor Agbu Kefas is making in Taraba State, Nigeria.
In addition, Our Principal Director, Dr. Mrs. Christie Salami Zaku (and Principal Howai GSS, Jalingo) showcased the power of vision, leadership, and purpose, and discussed one of the most transformative agendas in Taraba State, Nigeria: free education for all.
The meeting wasn’t just a routine discussion. It was a powerful exchange of ideas focused on:
Strengthening the free education policy to ensure no child is left behind.
Addressing challenges in infrastructure, teacher support, and curriculum development.
Partnership opportunities with IBIFoundry to foster innovations, youth empowerment, and sustainable educational growth.
As both the Director of IBIFoundry and the Principal of Howai Government Secondary School, Dr. Christie Salami Zaku brought valuable insights from the ground, sharing firsthand experiences of how the Governor’s policies are transforming lives.
"There's more work too but with the right policies and implementation, we're on the right track Sir", Dr. Mrs. Zaku added.
Governor Agbu Kefas: A Leader Committed to Change
Key points noted from our dialogue with Governor Kefas, he isn’t just passionate about education - he’s actively involved in its progress.
As a matter of fact, His Excellency paid an unscheduled visit to Howai Government Secondary School, Mile Six, Jalingo, to personally assess the impact of his free education policy.
Luckily, we covered the details of the visit/inspection. You can go through it here:
This isn’t leadership from afar - it’s leadership in action.
His goal is clear: to ensure every child in Taraba State has access to quality education, regardless of their background.
We discussed a lot! Our conversation touched on:
Strengthening education to empower Taraba’s youth
Unlocking entrepreneurial opportunities for local businesses
Boosting infrastructure & development in Ibi
Exploring partnerships that create lasting impact
Why This Matters to You and I (IbiFounders, Tarabans)
No More Barriers: Children who couldn’t afford school before now have a chance to dream.
Empowered Communities: Education is creating opportunities that ripple through families and neighborhoods.
A Brighter Future: Taraba isn’t just aiming to be great in Nigeria—we’re positioning ourselves as one of the most progressive states in Africa.
Finally, Simon Zaku's Personal Gratitude and Moving Forward to Gov. Agbu Kefas
On behalf of the entire IbiFoundry team worldwide, we extend our heartfelt gratitude to Governor Agbu Kefas for his unwavering commitment to education and youth empowerment.
Together, we’re not just talking about change - we’re making it happen.
"If it is written by HIM (GOD), then it is DONE."
This is just the beginning. We’re committed to working hand in hand with the government, investors, and the people of Taraba to turn ideas into reality. If you believe in Taraba State’s potential, stay with us - great things are coming!
Written by,
Simon Taki Zaku
Founder & CEO, IBIFoundry.com.ng
Ibifoundry making impact
It’s a blessing to the entire state to have a man who has the heart of gold Taraba is moving forward
Breaking boundaries