Taraba Youths Criticise Biometric Exercise for ₦500 Million Startup Grant Programme
Some youths in Taraba State have expressed dissatisfaction over the ongoing biometric capturing exercise organised by the Taraba State Youth Development Agency as part of the application process for the state's ₦500 million startup grant initiative.
The grant programme, approved by Governor Agbu Kefas, is aimed at supporting young entrepreneurs across the state to establish and expand their businesses.
On Tuesday, applicants gathered at the agency's headquarters in Jalingo, the state capital, for biometric registration. However, photographs showing large numbers of youths standing in long queues during the exercise quickly circulated on social media, triggering widespread public reactions and criticism over the manner in which the process was conducted.
Reacting to the development, a Facebook user, Mallam Zaharadden Ibrahim, questioned the agency's approach, arguing that the exercise failed to reflect modern administrative practices.
«"Governor Agbu Kefas and the team handling the ₦500 million startup grant are not serious.»
«"In the 21st century, you're still making people walk into your office to apply for a grant? This could easily be done through an online portal without stressing anyone or causing a stampede.»
«"What about applicants in other local government areas? Are you expecting them to board transport to Jalingo just to apply?»
«"Are you sure you want to help Tarabans, or is this just a photo opportunity to gather a crowd and look like you're doing something?»
«"What crime did the people of Taraba commit against Governor Kefas to deserve this kind of humiliation?" he wrote.»
Another Facebook user, Abubakar Ahmed Bature, also criticised the process, describing it as outdated and potentially unfair to many eligible beneficiaries living outside the state capital.
«"Everything about Taraba State is different.»
«"Instead of having a public portal where every eligible Taraban can apply, we are still doing things as though we are in the analog age.»
«"Unless there is another plan to launch a public portal, someone like Muniru Dahiru, who currently runs a kaftan and shoe business in Bali and has no connections within the system, may not be able to register or benefit from the programme," he stated.»
A review of comments on various social media platforms showed that several residents shared similar concerns. Many suggested that the agency could have adopted digital alternatives, including a dedicated online application portal or even Google Forms, to reduce stress, transportation costs, and the risk of overcrowding.
Some commenters argued that an online process would ensure wider participation, particularly for applicants from remote local government areas who may face financial and logistical challenges travelling to Jalingo.
As of the time of filing this report, the Taraba State Youth Development Agency had not officially responded to the concerns raised by members of the public.
However, Twisdic Info Reports understands that the agency may review the complaints and consider introducing alternative registration methods to make the startup grant application process more accessible, transparent, and efficient, while addressing growing public concerns over the current exercise.
The ₦500 million startup grant initiative is expected to empower young entrepreneurs and stimulate small business growth across Taraba State, making its implementation a matter of significant public interest.