The Gombe State government has earmarked N1.15 billion for a series of infrastructure development projects and the installation of solar-powered streetlights across three local government areas. Malam Mahmood Yusuf, the Director-General of the Joint Project Development Agency, announced these initiatives during a press conference held in Gombe. He stated that the projects received approval at a Joint Project Council (JPC) meeting, chaired by Governor Inuwa Yahaya, and are in line with the Governor’s vision for improving infrastructure within the state.
Specific projects include the installation of solar street lights on newly built roads in Kumo, with a budget of N740 million. Additionally, N362 million has been allocated for fencing the National Agricultural Land Development Authority (NALDA) market and installing solar street lights in the Kwadon area of Yamaltu/Deba.
In Billiri, N47 million has been approved for the expansion of the grains market and the construction of six public toilet facilities. The grain market project, initially approved in 2024 with a budget of N112 million, has seen its allocation increased to N159 million to accommodate the additional toilet construction.
Beyond infrastructure, the council has also approved measures to bolster security. Personnel from the Gombe Security Traffic and Environmental Corps (GOSTEC) and Operation Hattara will be deployed to enhance surveillance in schools and cemeteries throughout the state. This decision follows concerns raised by Sani Haruna, Chairman of Gombe Local Government Council and Chairman of the Association of Local Governments of Nigeria (ALGON), regarding increasing instances of theft in public buildings. The scope of Operation Hattara will also be expanded to cover all 11 Local Government Areas.
Looking ahead, Fatima-Binta Bello, Chairperson of Shongom Local Government Council, expressed a commitment to building on Governor Yahaya’s achievements in education and healthcare. She emphasized the importance of strengthening human resources by recruiting qualified personnel to fill manpower gaps and improve service delivery, particularly within primary healthcare and basic education sectors.
Ahmad Wali, Chairman of Kwami Local Government Council (LGC), highlighted efforts to prevent conflicts between farmers and herders. The council has initiated the resurveying and remapping of grazing reserves and cattle routes, with strict sanctions to be imposed on anyone found encroaching on these designated areas.
