Many have praised the Taraba State Governor His Excellency Dr Agbu Kefas for being the first and only Governor in the history of the state and Nigeria at large to create the Ministry of Social Justice and Re-integration where all social injustices are attended to and given prompt responses.
The governor received accolades from guests across fields of work for being the first since its inception to celebrate World Social Justice Day with the theme “Bridging gaps, Building Alliances” a programme held at the Conference Hall of the First Lady. And highlights of the occasion include a road walk and entertainment from Taraba State Art and Culture, among many others.
It is a significant step towards creating a fair and equitable society where everyone has equal access to opportunity and resources regardless of their backgrounds.
Delivery her welcome address at the occasion, the commissioner of Social Justice and Re-integration Dr. Mrs. Filister Irarimam Musa said the day presents us with an opportunity to focus and reflect on the importance of social justice in our society.
She said the theme of this year World Social Justice Day was carefully chosen by the UN to emphasize the importance of collaboration and partnership in addressing the world's challenges.
She further said this year's theme is a call to overcoming barriers and unleashing opportunities with a focus on strengthening global solidarity and rebuilding trust in government.
Dr Filister enumerated the main principles of social justice to include access to resources, equity, participation, diversity, and human rights, among others.
” As we all know, Social Justice is an essential ingredient in creating a world that is fair, equitable, and inclusive for all. It is through social justice that we can address and eradicate issues such as poverty, inequality, and discrimination in our communities
Today, we celebrate the achievements we have made so far towards social justice in Taraba State and also acknowledge the work that still needs to be done. “
She made a call to continue to advocate fair treatment, equal opportunities, and access to resources for all members of our society, regardless of their social, economic, or political status.
The commissioner also added that the governor has a clear plan for the development of the state and is committed to achieving it.
On the part of Governor Dr. Agbu Kefas, who was ably represented by his Deputy Governor Alhaji Aminu Alkali said it is a day set aside to promote the importance of social justice and the need to address the various social inequalities that exist in our communities and societies.
The governor believed that social justice is critical to ensuring citizens have access to basic amenities such as education, healthcare, and affordable housing, irrespective of social status.
He further reiterated his government's commitment to implementing policies and programmes that prioritize the welfare of the less privileged members of society.
“We have invested in public education, provided scholarships to indigenous students, and constructed new schools, buildings, and classrooms in various parts of the state,” he addressed.
Additionally, he said the government has implemented programs aimed at empowering women, youths, and vulnerable groups such as people living with disabilities.
The deputy governor beckoned on the citizenry to join hands with the government to promote social justice as it isn't just the responsibility of the government alone.
The Honourable Commissioner of Education Dr. Augustine called on parents and guardians to take full advantage of the Kefas' free and compulsory education as it is the only bailout to social justice.
Collaboratively, Dr Jamila Ibrahim, the former Permanent Secretary of the ministry, emphasized the need to empower more women both politically and otherwise to occupy public offices, though praising His Excellency Dr Agbu Kefas for women's inclusiveness as cabinet members and key decision-makers and policymakers of his administration. A gesture she said was the first of its kind.
And speaking at the event, the member representing Karim 2 Hon. Anas leaned his voice on the need to support the administration of Dr. Agbu Kefas for more dividends of democracy, as according to him, he has pictured a brighter future in this administration.
The Governor’s wife Mrs. Agyin Kefas had a visible impact on the occasion with her donations of wheelchairs, walking sticks, and other items to the persons living with disabilities.
Hon. A.M Lauya member representing the people of Lau, Karim, and Ardo Kola at the House of Representatives also ably represented by Mallam Isa Mohammed supported the ministry with 50 bags of 10kg of rice to commemorate the day.
