Tijwun Highlights Rikupki’s Development Projects, Expresses Confidence Ahead of 2027
As political conversations gradually begin to shape the future of Ussa Constituency ahead of the 2027 elections, community development advocate Emmanuel Sunday Tijwun has highlighted a number of projects and interventions associated with Hon. Rikupki Joshua Urenyang, describing them as evidence of a commitment to grassroots development and effective representation.
Speaking on the performance of the member representing Ussa Constituency in the Taraba State House of Assembly, Tijwun noted that public office holders should be evaluated based on their contributions to the welfare of the people and the development of their communities.
According to him, the impact of leadership is best measured through projects and initiatives that directly improve the lives of citizens. He argued that several interventions credited to Hon. Rikupki across education, healthcare, infrastructure, youth empowerment, water supply, and social welfare have contributed positively to communities within Ussa Local Government Area.
Among the projects highlighted by Tijwun is the construction and equipping of an Information and Communication Technology (ICT) Centre powered by solar energy in Fikyu. The project is expected to enhance digital literacy, expand access to technology, and provide learning opportunities for young people in the area. At a time when technology continues to shape educational and economic opportunities, the ICT Centre is seen as an important investment in the future of the constituency.
Education has also featured prominently among the projects associated with the lawmaker. Tijwun cited the construction of a block of two classrooms at Yitsang Primary School and a block of three classrooms at Rufu Ayek-Sku. According to him, these projects have contributed to improving the learning environment for pupils while addressing classroom shortages in the affected communities.
In addition to physical infrastructure, support for higher education has reportedly been extended through scholarship opportunities for Kuteb students studying in tertiary institutions. The scholarship initiative has provided financial assistance to students pursuing academic advancement, helping to ease educational challenges faced by many families.
Infrastructure development remains one of the most visible indicators of public investment, and several projects in this area were highlighted. These include the construction of a bridge at Kpambo Puri, the development of a drainage system along the Rufu Yikwe–Lumbu Road, and the construction of culverts at Kpambo Rimamdeyati and the Zaura Mubi Tasso–Kwessati axis.
Residents say these projects have helped improve accessibility, facilitate movement, and support economic activities across communities. Improved infrastructure is widely recognized as a critical factor in promoting development, enhancing transportation, and strengthening local economies.
Another project cited by Tijwun is the completion of electrification from Lissam to Rufu. Access to electricity remains essential for economic growth, small businesses, education, and household development. Community members have described the project as a significant contribution toward improving living standards and expanding opportunities for residents.
Water supply has also received attention through the rehabilitation of more than 70 boreholes across Ussa Local Government Area. Access to clean water continues to be a major challenge in many rural communities, making borehole rehabilitation an important intervention for public health and community wellbeing. The initiative has reportedly improved water access for numerous households across the constituency.
Healthcare interventions were equally highlighted. Tijwun pointed to the organization of a seven-day free medical outreach programme that provided healthcare services to residents across Ussa. The outreach reportedly offered consultations, treatment, and medical support to beneficiaries, particularly those who may have limited access to healthcare services.
Social welfare initiatives have also formed part of the lawmaker’s community interventions. During festive periods, seedlings were reportedly distributed to widows in Rufu as part of efforts aimed at supporting vulnerable members of society and promoting agricultural productivity. The initiative was designed not only as a form of assistance but also as a means of empowering beneficiaries through sustainable livelihood opportunities.
Youth development remains another area where supporters say Hon. Rikupki has made notable contributions. Through the organization of inter-institution sports competitions for Kuteb students, young people were provided with opportunities to engage in healthy competition, strengthen social ties, and showcase their talents. Sports development programmes are often recognized for their role in promoting unity, discipline, and youth engagement.
Additionally, Tijwun highlighted the facilitation of a butcher’s house in Costine, describing it as a project aimed at supporting local businesses and improving commercial activities within the community.
According to Tijwun, the collection of projects and interventions reflects a development-oriented approach to representation and demonstrates responsiveness to community needs.
“Leadership is ultimately judged by impact. When communities can point to projects in education, healthcare, water supply, electrification, infrastructure, youth development, and social welfare, it becomes easier to assess the contributions of their representatives,” he said.
He added that while development is a continuous process and more work remains to be done, the projects already undertaken provide a basis for evaluating performance and measuring progress within the constituency.
As discussions surrounding the future of leadership in Ussa Constituency continue, the achievements and interventions highlighted by Tijwun are likely to remain part of broader conversations on governance, representation, and community development.
For many residents, the focus remains on sustaining progress, addressing remaining challenges, and ensuring that development continues to reach communities across Ussa Local Government Area.
