The governorship candidate of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) in Taraba State, Hon. Danjuma Usman Shiddi, popularly known as Danji SS, has outlined his vision for the state ahead of the 2027 governorship election, promising a development agenda focused on accountability, security, economic opportunities and improved public services.
Shiddi, a former member of the House of Representatives, has positioned his candidacy around the need for practical solutions to the challenges facing residents, particularly in rural communities where access to basic infrastructure and essential services remains a major concern.
His proposed governance approach places emphasis on ensuring that public projects address genuine community needs, deliver measurable benefits and represent value for public money.
DEVELOPMENT PLANS FOCUS ON KEY SECTORS
The APGA candidate has identified water supply, education, healthcare, agriculture, road infrastructure, security and employment creation as key areas requiring urgent attention.
On water supply, he has proposed a comprehensive programme to rehabilitate existing facilities, expand access to reliable water sources and explore solar-powered systems for communities where they would be appropriate.
In education, his plans include improving school infrastructure, providing essential teaching and learning materials, supporting teacher development and expanding access to technical education and digital skills.
He has also pledged to strengthen primary healthcare services, improve access to essential medicines and equipment, and pursue investments that would bring quality medical services closer to residents.
AGRICULTURE AND JOB CREATION
Shiddi has described agriculture as a major opportunity for economic growth and improved livelihoods in Taraba State.
His proposed strategy includes better access to agricultural inputs, extension services, storage facilities, processing opportunities, irrigation and markets for farmers. He has also emphasised the importance of cooperatives and private-sector investment in improving agricultural productivity.
For young people and women, the candidate has promised to promote skills development, entrepreneurship and employment opportunities as part of efforts to reduce economic hardship and dependence.
SECURITY AND ACCOUNTABLE GOVERNANCE
Security is another major component of the candidate’s agenda. He has advocated stronger cooperation among government institutions, security agencies, traditional rulers and local communities to improve intelligence sharing, early-warning systems and responses to emerging threats.
On governance, Shiddi has pledged to promote transparency in public expenditure, strengthen accountability and ensure that government programmes are assessed by their actual impact on residents.
He has maintained that development projects should be selected according to their urgency, cost, sustainability and expected benefits rather than political considerations or visibility alone.
PROMISE OF INCLUSIVE LEADERSHIP
The APGA candidate has also stressed the importance of unity and equal opportunities for Taraba’s diverse ethnic and religious communities.
He has argued that the state’s diversity should serve as a foundation for cooperation and development rather than a source of division. His proposed approach promises equal consideration for citizens, regardless of their background or geographical location.
The campaign has further highlighted the need for greater participation by women and young people in political activities and governance.
THE CHALLENGE AHEAD OF 2027
With the 2027 governorship election approaching, Shiddi faces the task of translating his proposed policies into a credible statewide campaign capable of attracting support across Taraba’s 16 local government areas.
His ability to communicate clear priorities, build effective grassroots structures and demonstrate how his proposals would be funded and implemented will be important in determining the strength of his candidacy.
Ultimately, Taraba’s electorate will have to assess the competing candidates on their records, policy proposals, leadership capacity and ability to address the state’s development challenges.
For Danji SS, the central test will be whether his promise of practical, accountable and inclusive governance can convince voters that his proposed administration would deliver tangible improvements in their daily lives.
