JALINGO, Nigeria - President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has identified food security and regional economic inclusion as crucial elements for Nigeria's long-term stability. The announcement came during the Taraba International Investment Summit 2025, held on May 22, 2025, in Jalingo, the capital of Taraba State [1][2].

Speaking through Vice President Kashim Shettima, Tinubu outlined plans to transform Taraba State into a hub for agricultural productivity, energy generation, and mineral resource development [1]. "Food security, along with regional economic inclusion, is the first currency of Nigeria's path to long-term stability," Tinubu stated [2].

The summit, aimed at showcasing Taraba's potential to local and foreign investors, highlighted the state's abundant agricultural and mineral resources [3]. Tinubu described Taraba as "a cornerstone of Nigeria's agricultural and industrial future," emphasizing that its agricultural potential is a manifestation of the nation's shared prosperity [1][2].

Alhaji Aliko Dangote, President of Dangote Group, also spoke at the summit, urging federal and state governments to create an enabling environment for local investors. Dangote argued that local investors have the capacity to create more job opportunities and harness the country's abundant resources [3].

President Tinubu's administration plans to adopt a bottom-up approach to economic transformation, leveraging local resources and decentralizing development [4]. This strategy aligns with the government's Renewed Hope Agenda, which places agriculture at the center of Nigeria's economic revival [5].

The focus on regional development and food security comes at a time when Nigeria is seeking to diversify its economy and reduce dependence on oil exports. By emphasizing the role of each region in national development, the government aims to create a more inclusive and sustainable economic model [1][4].

As Nigeria moves forward with these plans, the success of initiatives in states like Taraba could serve as a blueprint for similar developments across the country, potentially reshaping the nation's economic landscape in the coming years.