DEAF CLUSTER IN TARABA STATE SWEARS IN NEW EXECUTIVES, USHERING IN A NEW ERA OF LEADERSHIP 
Jalingo, Taraba State – On Friday, June 20, 2025, the Deaf Cluster of the Taraba State Deaf Association marked a significant milestone with the swearing-in of its newly elected executives, who will steer the affairs of the association for the next four years. The historic event took place in the Commissioner’s Conference Room at the Ministry of Social Justice and Reintegration, Jalingo, amidst an atmosphere of hope, gratitude, and renewed commitment to the welfare of the deaf community.
The ceremony was graced by prominent dignitaries, including the Commissioner for Social Justice and Re-Integration, Dr. Filister Irarimam Musa, the Ministry’s Secretary, the Director of Rehabilitation, staff of the Ministry, and a host of guests and well-wishers who gathered to celebrate both the outgoing and incoming leadership. The event was a vibrant display of unity and shared purpose, as the deaf community and its supporters came together to chart a path forward.
In an emotionally charged address, the outgoing Chairman, Comrade Esola Abraham, reflected on his tenure with deep gratitude. He expressed profound appreciation to God and His Excellency, Dr. Agbu Kefas, the Governor of Taraba State, for the unwavering support extended to the Deaf Association during his leadership.
“Words cannot fully express my gratitude to Almighty God and His Excellency, Dr. Agbu Kefas, for the opportunity to serve and the immense support we received throughout my tenure,” Comrade Abraham said. “I also extend my heartfelt thanks to the Honourable Commissioner, Dr. Filister Irarimam Musa, and the dedicated staff of the Ministry of Social Justice for their unrelenting commitment to our cause. I humbly plead that this same support be extended to my successor and his team.”
Comrade Abraham, who was recently appointed as the Special Assistant to the Governor on Persons with Disabilities in the Deaf Cluster, seized the moment to highlight the commissioner’s exceptional contributions. “On behalf of the outgoing executives, I want to specially thank Dr. Filister Irarimam Musa for her tireless efforts and both moral and financial support to persons with disabilities. Her dedication has been a beacon of hope for our community, and we pray that God rewards her bountifully,” he said.
The newly sworn-in Chairman, Comrade Haruna Ibrahim, delivered a rousing acceptance speech, outlining his vision for the Deaf Association. He pledged to prioritise the welfare of the deaf community while upholding the principles of honesty, fairness, and accountability. His words resonated with determination and a call for unity among his fellow executives.
“My administration will be guided by the principles of honesty, fairness, and accountability,” Comrade Ibrahim declared. “I urge my fellow executive members to shun selfishness, greed, and extravagance, as these vices will not be tolerated under my leadership. Together, we will work tirelessly to improve the lives of our members and advance the cause of the deaf community in Taraba State.”
He also appealed for continued support from the state government, the Ministry, and other stakeholders. “I humbly plead with His Excellency, Dr. Agbu Kefas, our amiable commissioner, Dr. Filister Irarimam Musa, and the staff of the Ministry to continue supporting us as we strive to build on the achievements of our predecessors,” he added.
In her remarks, Dr. Filister Irarimam Musa, the Commissioner for Social Justice and Re-Integration, lauded the outgoing executives for their remarkable achievements, describing their tenure as a period of “giant strides and milestones.” She challenged the incoming leadership to surpass these accomplishments and take the association to greater heights.
“The outgoing executives have set a high standard with their dedication and achievements,” Dr. Musa said. “I charge the new executives to double these efforts and continue to make the Deaf Association a shining example of resilience and progress. The Ministry remains committed to supporting your initiatives and ensuring the inclusion of persons with disabilities in all aspects of development.”
Dr. Musa also urged the deaf community to rally behind the administration of Governor Agbu Kefas, emphasising the importance of their support for his re-election bid in 2027. “The government of Dr. Agbu Kefas has shown unprecedented commitment to the welfare of persons with disabilities,” she noted. “I call on this community to continue supporting his administration and work toward his re-election in 2027 to sustain these gains.”
A highlight of the ceremony was the presentation of an Award of Excellence to Dr. Filister Irarimam Musa by the outgoing executives, recognising her as a “Champion of Inclusion” for her steadfast advocacy and support for persons with disabilities. The award was met with resounding applause, underscoring her impactful contributions to the community.
The oath of office for the new executives was administered by Barr. A.A. Imam, the legal adviser to the Deaf Cluster, charged the new leadership to uphold their responsibilities with integrity and dedication.
The swearing-in ceremony marked the beginning of a new chapter for the Taraba State Deaf Association, with the incoming executives poised to build on the foundation laid by their predecessors. The event was not only a celebration of leadership transition but also a testament to the resilience and unity of the deaf community in Taraba State.
As the new executives take on their roles, the expectations are high, but so is the optimism. With the continued support of the state government, the Ministry of Social Justice, and the broader community, the Deaf Association is set to achieve even greater milestones in the years ahead.
The ceremony concluded with a renewed sense of purpose and a collective commitment to advancing the welfare and inclusion of persons with disabilities in Taraba State.
