By Henry Agbu, Jalingo

Taraba State Governor, Dr. Agbu Kefas, has called for greater unity, regional cooperation and inclusive development among communities associated with the historic Kwararafa heritage.

Kefas made the call at the Kwararafa Development Forum (KDF) and Kwararafa Assembly held at Transcorp Hilton, Abuja, where he served as Convener. The event was held under the theme, “Celebrating Culture, Unity and Diversity.”

The governor described the Kwararafa Assembly as a non-political and non-religious platform established to promote unity, preserve cultural heritage, foster peaceful coexistence and advance the collective interests of the Kwararafa people.

He said the Assembly was open to all, irrespective of political affiliation, religious belief or other differences, stressing that its primary objective was to strengthen unity and promote peaceful coexistence among the diverse communities linked to the Kwararafa heritage.

Kefas urged the Assembly to develop a comprehensive Kwararafa development and economic blueprint containing clear programmes, defined responsibilities, measurable targets and implementation timelines.

According to him, such a blueprint would help translate the region’s shared history and cultural identity into practical development initiatives capable of improving the lives of its people.

He also called for an inclusive, transparent and accountable structure to coordinate and monitor the activities of the Assembly, while encouraging partnerships with governments, the private sector, universities, institutions and members of the diaspora.

The governor said such partnerships should create credible opportunities for education, investment and community development across the Kwararafa region, stressing that all collaborations must be lawful, transparent and voluntary.

Kefas described the gathering as the beginning of a “Kwararafa rebirth,” providing an opportunity for people connected by a shared history and cultural heritage to renew their common vision and identify practical ways of contributing to Nigeria’s development.

“For many years, we have spoken about the greatness of the old Kwararafa system of governance and its contribution to the history and development of what later became Nigeria,” he said.

He noted that despite differences in language, customs and traditions, the various communities associated with the Kwararafa heritage remain connected by a shared history and civilisational heritage.

“Our gathering today must help us to turn that shared history into a practical agenda for national development. This is the real meaning of Kwararafa rebirth,” the governor stated.

The event concluded with the unveiling of the Kwararafa Handbook, a publication containing information on the history, constituent peoples, economic assets and development priorities of the Kwararafa region.