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  • Gombe’s Quiet Transformation: A Model of Disciplined, Sustainable Development

    Gombe’s Quiet Transformation: A Model of Disciplined, Sustainable Development

    • By Dr. Dahiru Muhammed, Chairman, PICTT

    In Nigeria’s national development discourse, attention often fixates on scale, visibility, and rapid execution. Yet some of the most sustainable advances in the federation are occurring in quieter settings driven by strategic planning, fiscal discipline, institutional strengthening, and a steadfast commitment to long-term outcomes. Gombe State, under the leadership of Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya since 2019, stands as a compelling example of this approach.

    As a development practitioner with extensive private-sector experience, I assess governance not through partisan perspectives but through verifiable indicators: measurable outcomes, robust systems, and growing investor confidence. What sets Governor Yahaya apart is not only the breadth of achievements but the methodical, evidence-based manner in which they have been delivered, an approach centred on human capital enhancement, productivity gains, and environmental and economic sustainability.

    Healthcare is frequently framed as a purely social service, yet it functions as critical economic infrastructure by improving workforce productivity and household resilience. Governor Yahaya’s administration has constructed and fully equipped 228 Primary Healthcare Centres (one in each of the state’s 114 wards), recruited more than 440 primary healthcare workers and 145 midwives, and expanded the Gombe State Contributory Healthcare Scheme (GoHealth) to cover nearly 370,000 beneficiaries, with deliberate targeting of vulnerable populations.

    A landmark initiative has been the elevation of the formerly dilapidated Kumo General Hospital to a Federal Medical Centre. This upgrade reduces medical tourism outflows, enhances tertiary care access for residents, and positions Gombe as an emerging regional healthcare hub for the North-East. These reforms directly support Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 3 (Good Health and Well-being) and align with global human capital indices that multinational investors and development finance institutions increasingly prioritise when evaluating labour market quality.

    The declaration of a state of emergency in education in 2019 signalled decisive intent. It has been matched by sustained investment: construction or renovation of over 1,600 classrooms, recruitment of more than 1,000 qualified teachers, and successful reintegration of over 350,000 out-of-school children into formal schooling.

    The results are quantifiable and impressive. Senior Secondary Certificate Examination (SSCE) pass rates in the West African Examinations Council (WAEC) rose from 22% in 2019 to 76% in 2024. Beyond statistics, this improvement translates into a larger pool of skilled, trainable youth—a vital asset for investors. Gombe’s education trajectory supports SDG 4 (Quality Education) and strengthens the state’s standing on the World Bank’s Human Capital Index.

    The flagship Network 11-100 Project has delivered over 900 kilometres of rural and urban roads, linking agricultural producers to markets, communities to essential services, and enterprises to broader supply chains. By reducing logistics costs—one of Nigeria’s most significant barriers to sub-national competitiveness—these roads enhance economic efficiency.

    Gombe’s expanding urban road network further establishes the state as a strategic transit and logistics node connecting North-East and North-West markets. Such infrastructure aligns with global competitiveness benchmarks employed by the World Bank, African Development Bank, and private investors.

    External validation of Gombe’s reforms is unambiguous: the state ranked first in Nigeria on the Presidential Enabling Business Environment Council (PEBEC) Ease of Doing Business index in both 2021 and 2022.

    This achievement stems from deliberate institutional reforms, including the creation of the Gombe State Investment Promotion Agency (GoInvest), enactment of the State Electricity Law, and digitisation of land administration through the Gombe Geographic Information System (GOGIS). These measures have introduced transparency, speed, and predictability—core elements of modern investment environments that mirror World Bank Doing Business frameworks.

    Agriculture remains the economic backbone for most of Gombe’s population, particularly in rural areas historically marginalised from development gains. The administration has provided timely inputs, established farmer-herder conflict mitigation mechanisms, and optimised irrigation around the Dadin-Kowa and Balanga dams, shifting subsistence farming toward structured commercial activity.

    Gombe’s selection as a site for the federal Special Agro-Processing Zone (SAPZ) programme integrates it into national food-security and value-addition strategies. These efforts advance SDG 2 (Zero Hunger) and promote inclusive growth models recognised globally.

    Through the Agro-Climatic Resilience in Semi-Arid Landscapes (ACReSAL) programme—supported by nearly ₦900 million in state counterpart funding—Gombe has implemented erosion control projects that safeguard lives and infrastructure valued at tens of billions of naira while fostering green enterprises and community-based financing.

    In an era when climate risk increasingly influences capital allocation, these investments align with SDG 13 (Climate Action) and signal readiness to sustainability-focused investors and multilateral partners.

    At the heart of Gombe’s industrial strategy lies the 1,000-hectare Muhammadu Buhari Industrial Park in Yamaltu-Deba Local Government Area. Designed as a comprehensive ecosystem rather than mere land allocation, the park benefits from proximity to irrigation schemes, planned agro-industrial facilities (including a modern grains market, livestock market, and abattoir), improving power supply, and excellent road connectivity.

    For manufacturers, agro-processors, logistics operators, and renewable-energy firms, the park offers scale, policy certainty, and efficient access to regional and national markets.

    Governor Yahaya’s leadership emphasises systems over rhetoric. Key actions include clearing over ₦21 billion in inherited gratuity arrears, modernising the civil service, bolstering security architecture, and strengthening public institutions. These measures reflect a long-term governance philosophy rooted in fiscal prudence, inclusion, and sustainability—qualities increasingly demanded by investors, citizens, and development partners.

    Gombe presents a diversified, de-risked investment landscape underpinned by policy stability, expanding infrastructure, and sector-specific opportunities. Five priority corridors offer immediate bankability and attractive medium-term returns:

    Solid Minerals & Mining: Reserves exceeding 100 million tonnes of limestone, substantial gypsum and coal deposits, and emerging rare-earth minerals support cement production, fertiliser manufacturing, and mineral processing.

    Business Process Outsourcing (BPO): Positioned as the North-East’s BPO hub, Gombe offers 30–40% wage cost advantages over Lagos, anchored by a 2,000-seat facility (with potential scaling to 8,000 seats by 2030) backed by the Office for Nigerian Digital Innovation (OTNI).

    Agribusiness – Tomato Value Chain: High-yield production coupled with up to 50% post-harvest losses creates compelling cases for cold storage, aggregation centres, and processing plants.

    Warehouse & Logistics Hub: As a gateway serving North-East markets and AfCFTA trade corridors, the state has strong demand for modern warehousing, cold-chain facilities, and bonded logistics.

    Livestock & Ranching Economy: Extensive grazing reserves, reliable water from Dadin-Kowa Dam, and rising national protein demand enable profitable ventures in modern ranching, meat processing, dairy production, and cold-chain infrastructure.

    These opportunities are bolstered by Gombe’s top-ranked ease of doing business, competitive land access, tailored incentives, relative security stability, and the flagship industrial park.

    Gombe’s transformation under Governor Inuwa Yahaya demonstrates that disciplined, vision-driven governance can yield durable progress. As a native of the state and an advocate for public-private partnerships, I invite domestic and international investors to engage closely with Gombe’s opportunities—particularly the Muhammadu Buhari Industrial Park. Quiet, methodical transformations, when grounded in evidence and execution, often prove the most enduring. Gombe’s story is well underway, and its next chapter promises even greater impact.

    Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya’s leadership has exemplified visionary governance, marked by unwavering discipline, strategic foresight, and an unyielding commitment to the sustainable progress of Gombe State. His transformative achievements—rooted in systems-building, inclusivity, and long-term planning—have positioned Gombe as a beacon of quiet yet profound development within Nigeria’s federation. I commend him wholeheartedly for this exemplary stewardship, which has not only elevated the state’s standing but also restored hope and pride among its people.

    As a proud son of Gombe, I earnestly call upon all well-meaning Gombe indigenes—regardless of political affiliation, ethnic background, or social standing—to rally behind Governor Yahaya in steadfast support. Let us unite in safeguarding and advancing these hard-won gains, recognising that true progress thrives on collective resolve.

    Moreover, the momentum we witness today must transcend individual tenures. Whosoever assumes the mantle of leadership after him bears the sacred responsibility to uphold and build upon this foundation of excellence. Continuity in policy, vision, and execution is imperative for Gombe’s continued growth, prosperity, and emergence as a model sub-national entity. Together, let us commit to this enduring legacy—for our children, our communities, and the brighter future Gombe deserves.

  • Transport Minister condemns killing, abduction in Gombe 

    Transport Minister condemns killing, abduction in Gombe 

    The Minister of Transportation, Sen. Said Alkali, has condemned the killing of two siblings, and the abduction of four others in Pindiga town, Akko Local Government Area of Gombe State.

    The minister, who described the incident which occurred in the early hours of Sunday as “unacceptable and barbaric”, called on security agencies to intensify efforts to ensure that the perpetrators are apprehended and brought to justice.

    The Minister, in a statement on Monday by his media aide, Umar Jibril, urged residents to remain calm, stressing that the administration of President Bola Tinubu has zero tolerance for incessant killings and the abduction of innocent citizens from their homes. 

    He assured that those responsible for the heinous acts would not go unpunished.

    He stated, “While the Gombe State Government is taking decisive steps to address this vicious cycle of violence, the Federal Government, through its security agencies, will ensure that this incident serves as a deterrent to future occurrences.”

    Alkali extended his heartfelt condolences to the families of the deceased and to the Pindiga Emirate over the tragic loss. 

    He also prayed for Allah (SWT) to grant the bereaved families the strength to bear the irreparable loss and for the safe rescue and return of those abducted.

  • No attack on ECWA church in Gombe council, say Police

    No attack on ECWA church in Gombe council, say Police

    The Gombe State Police Command has described as false reports of an attack on the ECWA Church, Kashere, in the Akko Local Government Area.

    Spokesman for the command, DSP Buhari Abdullahi, dismissed the report in a statement on Sunday.

    According to him, the police, upon seeing the claim, reached out to an elder of the church who dismissed the reported attack as a total falsehood.

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    Abdullahi said the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) in charge of Pindiga and the Officer in Charge of the Kashere Police Outstation were the ones who immediately reached out to one of the church elders.

    “The elder, who was physically present in the church during the second segment of the Hausa service, confirmed that no such incident occurred. He also acknowledged that police officers were at the church premises throughout the day, protecting part of the routine security coverage.

    “The command views the circulation of such false information as irresponsible and capable of creating unnecessary panic among the public. The source of this misinformation will be thoroughly investigated with a view to taking appropriate action.

    “Members of the public are advised to remain calm and law-abiding, as the Gombe State Police Command remains fully committed to ensuring the safety and security of all residents across the state,” said Abdullahi. 

  • Gombe perm sec, four others die from electrocution

    Gombe perm sec, four others die from electrocution

    An electrical surge in the Tudun-Wadan Pantami area of Gombe Metropolis has claimed five lives and left 13 others injured.

    The incident occurred in the early hours of Saturday, according to the Gombe State Police Command.

    Our correspondent reports that the State’s Permanent Secretary, Special Duties and Regional Coordination, Abdullahi Kulani, was among the five reportedly killed by the electrocution.

    The incident, which authorities said was caused by a power surge from a nearby transformer, occurred just after dawn, catching residents unawares.

    Confirming the incident, the spokesperson of Gombe State Police Command, Buhari Abdullahi, a Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP), said officers from the Low-Cost Divisional Police Headquarters swiftly responded to the distress call.

    Abdullahi said: “Our officers moved quickly to secure the scene and evacuate the victims to hospitals for urgent medical care. Unfortunately, five individuals lost their lives and 13 others sustained varying degrees of injuries.”

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    According to the police, the bodies had been deposited in three different morgues — three at the Federal Teaching Hospital, Gombe, one at the State Specialist Hospital and one at Bolari Filin Kwallo Mortuary.

    The injured victims are currently receiving treatment at several health facilities across the state.

    Abdullahi noted that the Commissioner of Police, CP Bello Yahaya, described the incident as “deeply saddening” and extended his condolences to the bereaved families.

    “We express our heartfelt sympathy to those who have lost loved ones and wish the injured a swift and full recovery,” he said.

    He assured the public of a thorough investigation into the cause of the power surge.

  • Kano police parade suspected killers of Gombe ex-permanent secretary

    Kano police parade suspected killers of Gombe ex-permanent secretary

    The police command in Kano state on Monday paraded suspects involved in the kidnapping and killing of Atiku Mu’azu, a retired Permanent Secretary and former Chairman of the Gombe State Board of Internal Revenue Service, who had been living in Kano since his retirement.

    Among those paraded was 33-year-old Abubakar Hassan, a.k.a, Captain, of Ringim local government area of Jigawa state, who is the principal suspect that masterminded the kidnapping and killing of the victim.

    Also paraded was 29-year-old Adamu Abubakar Adam, of Sharada Quarters, Kano, who reportedly received the ransom of N2 million.

    The 34-year-old Alhaji Hamisu, a.k.a Bakin Bross, of Ringim local government area of Jigawa state, whose house was used in holding the victim hostage for three days, was also paraded on Monday.

    Police Commissioner, Salman Dogo Garba, who briefed reporters at the command headquarters, said on January 10, a report was received from a resident of Janbulo Quarters, Kano that on January 8, one Atiku Mu’azu, 64, was kidnapped and a ransom of N20 million was demanded for his release.

    “On receipt of the report, I raised a team from the command’s anti-kidnapping unit to rescue the victim and arrest the culprit(s).

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    “Sustained follow-up coupled with intelligence-led operation resulted in the arrest of the principal suspect, Abubakar Hassan.

    “During the course of the investigation, he confessed to have singlehandedly kidnapped and lured the victim to Ringim, Jigawa state under the pretense of taking him to Kazaure in Jigawa to collect his car from a mechanic.

    “Instead, he conspired with four others including the mechanic of the victim, held him hostage and later killed him after collecting a ransom of N2 million.

    “A toy gun with six rubber bullets was recovered from the principal suspect,” Garba said.

    Garba said the suspects were undergoing discreet investigation at the Command’s Criminal Investigation Department (CID), Anti-Kidnapping Unit and will be charged to court upon completion of the investigation.

  • Gombe agrees to pay N70,000 minimum wage – Deputy Gov

    Gombe agrees to pay N70,000 minimum wage – Deputy Gov

    Gombe Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya has announced his intention to pay the new N70,000 national minimum wage to workers in the State.

    Gombe Deputy Governor Manassah Jatau who is also the Chairman of the state’s Tripartite Committee on Minimum Wage negotiation revealed this to journalists on Sunday.

    He added that his committee is fine tuning the details in that respect while assuring that Governor Inuwa Yahaya is committed to paying the new minimum wage.

    Represented by the Head of Civil Service, Alh. Ahmed Kasimu Abdullahi, during the briefing, the Deputy Governor explained that the Governor is highly committed to ensuring that civil servants in the state enjoy the N70,000 new national minimum wage so that they can put in their best in serving the state.

    He said that the Governor has set a machinery in motion and the standing committee has been fine-tuning to see to the implementation of the new minimum wage.

    According to him: “Government has set the machinery for the implementation of the new national minimum wage in Gombe State. Let me assure you that His Excellency the Governor is fully determined to pay the minimum wage.

    “Unlike what you have been hearing in some quarters that the governor said he won’t pay. No, not at all. His Excellency is one of the governors in the forefront of payment of the new minimum wage,” he added.

    He said that Governor Inuwa has been magnanimous enough to willingly pay a N10,000 palliative in the form of a wage award since September last year to all civil servants in the state to cushion the effect of fuel subsidy removal which, automatically brought the minimum wage to 40,000 naira when other states couldn’t pay the 30,000 minimum wage.

    The Deputy Governor,  in a statement by Wilson Jonah Yakubu, his office’s Press Secretary/ Information Officer, stressed that “In the magnanimity of the Governor to alleviate the hardship occasioned by fuel subsidy removal, he approved the payment of N10,000 across board to all civil servants without anyone putting any pressure on him in order to make the civil servants feel better in the discharge of their duties.

    Read Also: N70,000 minimum wage: States await template from wages commission

    “The additional 10,000 naira was because of his concern, feeling and regard to civil servants and it has made the minimum wage 40,000 instead of 30, 000 even when other states couldn’t pay the 30,000”.

    He however pointed out that the negotiation committee has decided to separate the monthly salaries from the N10,000 palliative pending when the conclusion is reached in order to prepare the Civil servants to know their exact salaries when the minimum wage is finally agreed upon.

    According to him: “Effective from this month of August, the normal salary will be paid, then after two days, the ten thousand naira palliative will be paid to help the worker know his actual salary and this will continue until the new minimum wage is agreed upon.

    “We are now waiting for the salary table from the federal government before we commence the negotiation. Once we reach an agreement, the implementation will begin and the N10,000 naira palliative will stop,” he added.

    The Chairman of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) in the state, Mr. Yusuf Aish, confirmed that this was the position reached at the tripartite committee meeting on the new minimum wage.

    The NLC Chairperson stated, “We had a brief discussion during our negotiation in the last N30,000  minimum wage due to some balance of some payment where we have agreed that this committee is a standing committee of minimum wage negotiation in the state.”

    He also stated that, “As a result, this same committee met to begin negotiation on the new N70,000 national minimum wage. However, in our tripartite committee meeting, we have agreed to wait for the time the new minimum wage table as approved by the federal government will be released.

    “Whenever it is released, we will start full negotiation with a view to reaching an agreement on what is to be paid in Gombe State.”

    He also explained that civil servants will receive two alert messages beginning this month of August, being the normal salary and that of N10,000 palliative, urging the civil servants to be patient pending when the negotiations are concluded.

  • Inside Gombe’s herders, farmers peace deal

    Inside Gombe’s herders, farmers peace deal

    Gombe State celebrated a significant milestone last year, marking the first time in decades without violent clashes between herders and farmers. This achievement underscores the state’s commitment to fostering peaceful coexistence, essential for agricultural and economic growth. Simple yet profound demands from both groups include fairness from governing authorities and protection of their livelihoods—cattle and crops. EMMANUEL CHIDI-MAHA reports

    Last year marked a significant milestone for Gombe State, as it was the first time in decades that no violent clashes occurred between herders and farmers. While past years have seen relatively peaceful interactions, this achievement stands out as particularly noteworthy. The herders and farmers have simple yet profound demands: they seek fairness from governing authorities and protection for their means of livelihood—their cattle and crops.

    Additionally, they are advocating for educational opportunities for their children and other initiatives to help them thrive. The nomadic pastoralists express a strong desire to be integrated into mainstream society, believing this will help sustain and further the peace they have worked so hard to achieve. A series of meetings between leaders of various farming and herding groups have been instrumental in creating a safer farming environment. These discussions have already begun to yield the much-desired positive results, fostering a sense of cooperation and mutual understanding that bodes well for the future of Gombe State.

    Last week, the leadership of both farmers and herders were invited to a stakeholders’ town hall meeting in Gombe, the state capital. This meeting was one of several initiatives aimed at solidifying the peace between these two groups in the state. The town hall meeting underscored the Gombe State government’s commitment to fostering peaceful coexistence between farmers and herders, a crucial element for the state’s agricultural and economic growth. Participants left the meeting with a renewed sense of purpose and cooperation, hopeful for a peaceful and productive year ahead.

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    Indeed, Gombe State may no longer experience clashes between farmers and herders as the state government builds on its success in maintaining peace between both groups. Though the town hall meeting was a relatively small gathering, its impact could extend beyond ensuring food security within Gombe State to influencing neighbouring regions. Leaders of farmer and herder groups gathered to strengthen their cooperation and understanding, fostering a more harmonious and productive future.

    The State Commissioner for Agriculture, Animal Husbandry and Cooperatives, Dr Barnabas M. Malle, also known as Magayakin Kamo, represented Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya at the meeting. He emphasised that the state government views peaceful coexistence between farmers and herders as essential for the state’s agricultural and economic growth.

    He stated that Governor Yahaya has vowed to build on the prevailing peaceful coexistence among groups and communities in the state. The commissioner highlighted that this commitment is a crucial part of the state’s renewed efforts to prevent farmer-herder conflicts. Malle, who chairs the Farmers/Herders Prevention and Settlement of Dispute Committee, praised Governor Yahaya’s leadership in ensuring a clash-free farming season the previous year. He called on the people of Gombe State to continue supporting the Inuwa-led administration’s developmental projects, particularly in the agricultural sector.

    He announced that in June 2024, the government would provide farmers with subsidized fertilizer to promote a bountiful harvest. The Commissioner noted that in 2020, Governor Yahaya reactivated the Farmer-Herder (Disputes Prevention and Settlement) Committee under the Ministry of Agriculture and Animal Husbandry. The aim was to create a platform dedicated to deploying strategies to prevent lingering conflicts between farmers and cattle herders, an issue that has plagued other states in the federation.

    According to him, the committee had been left dormant in previous years, largely ineffective and without the necessary resources to address the ongoing conflicts. However, with the advent of Governor Yahaya’s administration, the committee was revitalised and given the critical support and resources needed to operate effectively. This included not only financial backing but also the authority to implement comprehensive strategies aimed at mitigating conflicts between farmers and herders. Dr. Malle emphasised that this renewed focus has enabled the committee to undertake proactive measures, such as community engagement programmes, conflict resolution workshops and regular dialogue sessions between the farming and herding communities. These initiatives are designed to foster mutual understanding and cooperation, addressing grievances before they escalate into violent clashes.

    The commissioner’s remarks underscored the importance of sustained support from the community to ensure the long-term success of these efforts. He called on the people of Gombe State to continue backing the administration, particularly in its initiatives aimed at agricultural development and conflict prevention. This, he argued, is crucial for maintaining the peace and enhancing the overall economic prosperity of the region. Dr. Malle also highlighted the broader impact of these efforts, noting that a stable and peaceful agricultural environment not only benefits the local economy but also contributes to national food security. By preventing conflicts and ensuring that both farmers and herders can operate without fear of violence, Gombe State sets an example for other regions facing similar challenges, he said. According to him, the state’s proactive approach serves as a model for conflict resolution and sustainable development, demonstrating how effective governance and community collaboration can lead to lasting peace and prosperity. He concluded by reaffirming the state government’s commitment to maintaining and building upon the peaceful coexistence achieved thus far, reiterating the governor’s pledge to continue supporting initiatives that promote harmony between farmers and herders so that Gombe State can remain a beacon of stability and agricultural success.

    “The main task of the committee is not dispute settlement, but dispute prevention between farmers and herders for the development of our dear state. We will not allow any herder to come into Gombe State until our farmers take all their farm produce back home; therefore from tomorrow, our committee will start visiting emirates and chiefdoms to meet with stakeholders and pass the message across,” the commissioner added.

    He expressed a strong conviction in the Committee’s determination to ensure that any room for disputes between the two parties is averted. Malle emphasised that the Committee’s proactive measures and comprehensive strategies are geared towards maintaining peace and fostering a cooperative relationship between farmers and herders. “Through continuous dialogue, conflict resolution workshops, and community engagement programs, we are committed to addressing potential issues before they escalate,” he stated. “Our goal is to create an environment where both farmers and herders can thrive without fear of conflict.”

    He reiterated that the reactivation of the Farmer-Herder (Disputes Prevention and Settlement) Committee has been instrumental in mitigating conflicts and promoting mutual understanding. The Committee’s efforts have already shown positive results, with a noticeable decrease in violent outbreaks and a significant improvement in the relationship between the two groups. He concluded by urging all stakeholders to remain committed to the cause of peace and to support the Committee’s initiatives. “The success of our efforts depends on the cooperation and support of everyone involved. By working together, we can ensure a stable and prosperous future for all residents of Gombe State,” he said.

    In summary, the renewed efforts by the Gombe State government, under the leadership of Governor Yahaya, have fostered a more peaceful and cooperative environment between farmers and herders. The revitalised Committee, with its strategic initiatives and community-focused approach, has been pivotal in preventing disputes and promoting harmony. With continued support and commitment from all stakeholders, Gombe State is poised to set an example of successful conflict resolution and sustainable agricultural development. “There has to be a dispute among parties first before settlement, in this case, we won’t even allow the dispute to happen as such our Committee is resolute to be preventive in our approach,” he said.

    In his opening remark, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Dr. Ibrahim Yakubu, reiterated the ministry’s dedication towards ensuring farmers and herders do not have a clash.  He called for increased cooperation from both farmers and herders to ensure lasting peace in Gombe State. The District Head of Nasarawo and Oversea Senior District Head of Gombe, Alhaji Usman Shetima, emphasized the vital role of traditional rulers in supporting the policies and programs of Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya’s administration, and assured of their continuous support through raising awareness among their communities about the importance of peaceful coexistence between farmers and herders.

    Chairman of the Miyetti Allah Cattle Rearers Gombe State Chapter, Alhaji Modibbo Yahaya, reaffirmed the Fulani community’s commitment to working alongside the state government and noted the importance of peaceful coexistence. Yahaya also urged all Fulani groups in Gombe State to abide by the law and expressed gratitude to the Ministry of Agriculture for organizing the gathering. He also pleaded for the provision of job opportunities from the government, for his people, adding that they have graduates of different educational levels amongst them.

    Governor Yahaya had called on all Local Government Chairmen to mitigate farmer-herder clashes in the local government areas. The Governor spoke while administering the oath of office on the newly elected chairpersons of the 11 local government areas in the state. He advised the new council bosses to promote peaceful co-existence and work in collaboration with security agencies and traditional rulers to establish peace in their respective councils. “Let me remind you of the crucial need to promote peaceful co-existence and safeguard the lives and property of your constituents. Given the current security situation across the country, I urge you to foster closer collaboration and cooperation with security agencies, traditional rulers, and other stakeholders, to bolster security measures that will enhance intelligence-gathering efforts and the effective performance of law enforcement agencies.

    “As the rainy season approaches, it is essential that you put in place proactive measures that are aimed at mitigating farmer-herder conflicts in our communities. As local government chairpersons, you are the closest to the grassroots. Thus, you bear great responsibility in promoting the well-being, peace and prosperity of the common man through responsive leadership. Your actions and decisions shall be guided by the collective interests of your constituents. I urge you to repay the confidence reposed in you, and to approach your job with the fear of God, honesty and accountability.”

  • Gombe mothers combat child malnutrition amid decline in RUTF funding

    Gombe mothers combat child malnutrition amid decline in RUTF funding

    As funding for Ready-To-Use Therapeutic Food (RUTF) continues to decline,  breastfeeding mothers in Kaltungo Local Government Area of Gombe State, are turning to locally grown nutritious foods.

    A visit to Kalorgu Primary Health Care Centre on Tuesday showed how women are trained to produce and prepare nutrient-rich foods, such as a special breed of orange-flesh sweet potato, to combat child malnutrition.

    The initiative, supported by the United Nations Children’s Fund, UNICEF is making significant improvements in child health and development, promoting complementary feeding after six months of exclusive breastfeeding.

    The nutritious food consists of a special breed of potato, yellowish in color, which is said to be rich in antioxidants called beta carotene, and effective at raising blood levels of vitamin A, particularly in children between the ages of one to four.

    The nutrition combo  which includes spaghetti made with sorghum flour, peanuts, pumpkin ,Kunu Zaki. composite flour, and grounded sweet potato, offers an affordable way to prevent malnutrition and address child poverty by providing balanced meals.

    Sharing her experience with the Nation, 21-year-old  mother of an eight-month-old baby, Sandra Bala, noted that since she was introduced to complementary feeding, her daughter’s health has greatly improved.

    She confirmed to our correspondent that she has no regrets, “Since I introduced my baby to complementary feeding after six months of exclusive breastfeeding, she has never fallen sick. I will introduce a similar method to my other children when I have them.”

    According to a  2021 Multiple Indicator Cluster Survey by the U.N. Agency, the number of children from zero to six months who were exclusively breastfed in Gombe is 24,328.

    In 2018, Gombe had 11,327 cured cases; defaulters – those who commenced treatment and left – were 68,499; while a total of 13, 655 were admitted in our facilities.

    In 2019, between January and April, the state recorded 1,630 cured cases; 12 death cases; 239 defaulters and 1,732 new admissions.

    However to improve data for strict adherence to exclusive breastfeeding practice and appropriate period for children’s complementary feeding, Gombe state still   needs to inject adequate funds in the Child Nutrition Fund programme to fight the problem head-on.

    Speaking during a media briefing in Gombe, Philomena Irene, Nutrition Specialist at UNICEF’s Bauchi Field Office, Philomena Irene, Nutrition Specialist, UNICEF Bauchi Field Office said, UNICEF is introducing the Complementary Feeding Project in all the 10 wards of Kaltungo Local Government Area specifically to provide optimal nutrition for children when they begin complementary feeding after the six months exclusive breastfeeding.

    She explained that the complementary food used in the demonstration of the nutritious food comprises locally available and affordable, as well as homegrown ones by the women right in their backyard.

    She said, “This is also the place where UNICEF is promoting the orange pot sweet potato cultivation. We have mothers here who have orange flesh potato vines in their backyard, which they are growing along with other vegetables like okra, spinach, cabbage and tomatoes, so that children can take variety of food that are nutritious, fresh and also that are palatable for their taste”.

    According to her , complementary feeding is fundamentally transforming the approach to addressing child wasting and stunting.

    She further explained that it also prevents children from acute malnutrition due to food poverty adding that the project is expected to be scaled up in all the Local Government Areas of Nigeria.

    Another testifier, Samira Yakubu, who has been visiting the center for the past two months with her eight-month-old baby, shared how she has applied what she learned there.

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    She said, “When I started giving my baby complementary food after exclusive breastfeeding two months ago, the baby became strong and healthy. The complementary food contains vitamin A. I also use soy milk mixed with potato flour, which is also very rich in vitamin A.

    “We had prepared in advance and planted yellow potatoes, especially since my husband is a farmer who supports me and is pleased with the results.”

    She noted a significant difference between her eight-month-old baby and her older children, who did not receive the same kind of feeding. “The older baby is not as heavy or healthy as this one.

    “I gave my older daughter normal water without soy milk and did not practice exclusive breastfeeding with her. Her growth had many challenges; she is weak, not plump, and easily falls when walking.

    “I have seen the difference, and if God gives me another child, I’ll give her the same kind of care I gave this baby, Maryam. She has become a model, and people admire her wherever I go.

    “I advise mothers to give their children this complementary food because it also helps protect children from preventable diseases,” she stated.

    Also speaking to our Correspondent, the Facility Manager of Kalargu Complementary Feeding Project of UNICEF, Ladi Abdullahi, said the project began by sensitizing the beneficiaries on the orange-flesh potato, as a root tuber rich in vitamin A. 

    “The potato was not only for consumption alone, but for making flour out of it, which are now introduced into different recipes”, said Abdullahi.

    The facility manager said lack of sufficient water had been a challenge in planting the potato, but that they had opted for planting them in sacks, because they cannot dry on time, saying the method had led to higher production of potatoes by the women.

    She said the project had so far gained 75% acceptance after others, who resisted the project at first but were convinced to join it later after seeing positive results.

     Abdullahi said she goes round to sensitize other women to see the benefits of adopting the complementary feeding for their children and the entire family.

  • In Gombe, firewood is precious than gold as poverty bites harder

    In Gombe, firewood is precious than gold as poverty bites harder

    …Residents fall trees in forest reserve for firewood

    In June 2013, the former Senate President, Senator Bukola Saraki who was then the Senate Committee Chairman on Environment and Ecology declared that

    Nigeria’s daily firewood consumption stands at 266 million kg.

    Saraki said this at the unveiling of the “Face of the Earth Africa (FOTEA)’’ to commemorate the 2013 World Environmental Day.

    The senator said such consumption was too enormous for the country’s forests to bear, and could lead to deforestation which could also be dangerous for the uplift of the economy.

    According to an article published by the University of Science and Technology, Aliero, Birnin Kebbi in June 2023, Nigeria has the potential to generate 12,522 MW of electricity, but can only dispatch 4000 MW, which is insufficient for a population of over 200 million people as of 2022. Therefore, Nigerians use solid fuels including firewood and charcoal as an alternative to insufficient electricity for domestic use. The consumption of firewood and charcoal in Nigeria is estimated at 23,745,458 tons and 4,828,689 tons, respectively in 2021, by far the most consumed domestic solid fuel sources in Nigeria. Although there are domestic solid fuel alternatives, such as dung, agricultural residues and coal, to firewood and wood charcoal, their sustainable adoption has been slow in Nigeria, indicating that there is insufficient knowledge of domestic solid fuel sources.

    In Gombe, 99 percent of citizens rely on using firewood to cook their foods according to the state commissioner for Environment, Water and forest resources, Ahmed Saidu Muhammed Fau.

    Gombe, like most Northern states, is a semi-arid region with few trees to protect the soil from desertification.

    Fau who spoke at the training of 400 artisans, scavengers and selected individuals on climate change, fabrication of efficient stoves and briquettes from farm produce wastes organised by the North East Development Commission NEDC said governments and stakeholders must go beyond rhetorics to engage the communities in advocacy to point out to them the dangers of falling down trees without replacing them.

    “I can say that 99 percent of Gombe citizens rely on using firewood or charcoal to cook their foods. Now, there are many ways of producing charcoal from farm bye products like rice shaft, coconut shell, maize husk and others. The government and agencies like NEDC will have to come together and buy these machines and provide them at strategic areas. The moment people know that there is an alternative to falling down trees, I am very sure they will imbibe that culture.

    “Although we may not achieve these hundred percent, it will take us somewhere. It’s just like what we did in stopping smoking. Not many people think smoking can be stopped in public places but now it has virtually been achieved. So I believe that with strong commitment and unity of purpose, we will get there,” he said.

    He said it is very painful when you drive around and you see the amount of destruction that has been done with regard to the falling of trees but regretted that governments and other stakeholders have not provided an alternative to them.

    “The use of firewood is all about the poverty level of the people and that is just it. We can’t expect everybody to use gas or kerosene for cooking because not everyone can afford it. Even if these products are distributed free to the people, would they have money to continue purchasing them? So yes, what has happened in the country in the past and what are happening now have roles to play. This is everybody’s responsibility, it’s not only the governments that have to shoulder it,” he said.

    Gombe State with it’s 3.9 million population is one of the highest firewood consuming states in the country even though it is battling with heavy gully erosion sites that have almost consumed major institutions in the state like Gombe State University, GSU and high brow area like the GRA in the state capital.

    Beyond the extremely poor purchasing power of the citizen fossil fuel like LPG and kerosene for cooking, the state is also grappling with a huge number of illiterate population who do not know how to use LPG.

    Recently, Gombe State University had to ban the use of gas in the school following the burning of a hostel by the students. Similarly, because of the several cases of burn recorded from gas explosion and the high cost of purchasing it, many are also reluctant to switch to the use of gas as an alternative to firewood.

    “When the state university banned the use of gas in hostels in the campus, they allow the use of kerosene but this further worsen the situation for already impoverished students community,” said Ahmad, a student of GSU.

    He said with the high cost of kerosene, students are forced to completely abstain from cooking beans, the most popular food for students.

    “We are limited to cooking only spaghetti, noodles and rice because those ones take lesser minutes to prepare in addition to the fact that it will save us more kerosene,” he said.

    Selling of firewood is a booming business in Gombe and it’s not limited to the lower class alone. At highbrow areas like the GRA and Federal Low Cost, firewood are supplied daily to residents for cooking.

    “Before, a bunch of firewood cut into ten pieces or less is sold for N60 but now the price has increased to N120,” said Malam Bello Sanni.

    Sanni said he has been in the firewood business for more than 35 years and it is what he depends on to feed his two wives and twelve children.

    He said he got up to five trucks of firewood every week and are not even enough to meet the demands.

    When asked about planting trees to replace those cut for firewood, Sanni said he knew nothing about that as he was not the one cutting the trees from the forest.

    Mohammed Segiru, the chairman of firewood traders said he has been in the business for 30 years.

    According to him, another bunch of firewood bigger than the smaller one used to be sold for N100 before but it has gone up to N300 now.

    He said people in Gombe prefer using firewood to cook than kerosene because kerosene is now expensive and not even available. Segiru added that the quantity of firewood consumed by a household depend on the size of the household.

    According to him, ebony and neem trees are in high demand because they burn fast like gas.

    For a state facing the challenge of deforestation, firewood is increasingly becoming scarce in Gombe and the traders have to go as far as Bauchi state to get the firewood.

    “We go as far as Bajoga, Dukku or Bara in Bauchi state to get all these firewoods,” he said.

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    On the other hand, Muhammed Adamu said he could not use firewood to cook in his house because his wife is asthmatic.

    “I use charcoal because my wife is asthmatic and cannot use firewood . If we even use small firewood, she will run into crisis and end up in hospital. Before we used to buy a bag of charcoal N650 or N700 but now the price has risen up to N5000. Now is I buy the N100 one it cannot cook more than just two times. My wife cannot use gas because she comes from the village and does not know how to use it. There was a time our neighbor’s house was set ablaze by someone using gas. A lot of our people here are illiterates and so using gas may be very difficult and the fear of using gas is another thing,” he said.

    He said the rates at which prices of food items and other commodities are rising has further worsen the poverty level in Gombe.

    Adamu Bulus, a civil servant in the state lamented that that as a graduate he receives only N38,000 per month.

    “And that was because of the N10,000 increased across board for all civil servants, before my take home pay was just N28, 000.”

    According to him, the poor remuneration of civil servants in the state is not helping the matter at all.

    “That is why even people like us who knows better have no choice than to use firewood or charcoal instead of gas. Also, if you don’t know how to farm, there is no way you can sustain decent life here in Gombe with just N38,000 salary,” said Bulus.

    Madam Sofia Maina, a food vendor at Station said she cannot use kerosene or gas because they are too expensive for her.

    “How much am I making a day?” She asked. “If I have to use any of the two then I will make no profit at all.”

    Although the state government embarked on a 3G afforestation project aimed at planting trees across the state, the rates at which men are falling trees everyday is obviously counter productive to such projects.

    Already, the Kanawa forest reserve in Kwadon near Gombe is a victim of the indiscriminate falling of trees for firewood. The forest well known for its mangrove trees in a subsaharan climate is fast disappearing sure to the uncontrol and negligence on the part of the authority in charge.

    Similarly, dry season farmers have also taken over the reserve, sharing the farmland and falling the trees to pave way for sunlight on their farms.

  • Gombe police arrest two for adulterated rice

    Gombe police arrest two for adulterated rice

    Gombe Police Command yesterday arrested two suspects in connection with 57 adulterated bags of rice mixes with the chaff.

    The police in a statement by ASP Sharif Sa’ad for the Police Public Relations Office, PPRO said the two suspects Bashir Haruna, aged 35, of Dubai quarters Gombe and Mohammed Isah, aged 54, of Jibulu quarters Kumo have confessed to mixing several bags containing this mixture and selling them.

    “On 24th February 2024, at about 11:00 am, Policemen from Akko Division, acting on credible intelligence, intercepted and arrested the above-mentioned suspects in possession of 57 bags of mixed chaff, i.e rice and chaff, with the intent to deceive the public and sell it as rice at market price. During interrogation, the suspects confessed to mixing several bags containing this mixture and selling them,” he said.

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    In view of this new trend, the Commissioner of Police, Gombe State Command, CP Hayatu Usman advised the general public to be wary of criminal elements and be vigilant when buying grains in sacks to avoid falling prey to such scams.

    The Command assures all the peace-loving people of Gombe State that the Police will continue to strive for better service delivery in the performance of its constitutional responsibilities of the protection of lives and properties, maintenance of law and order, and investigation and prosecution of offenders.

    The two suspects have since been charged to court.