Governor Inuwa Yahaya's Productive Second Term: A Glimpse at Gombe's Continued Good Governance

 

By Auwal Ilyasu

Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya's return to office following his reelection has ignited high expectations among the citizens of the state, signifying a continuation of diligent work and progress towards fulfilling his campaign promises. Today, we assess the strides and accomplishments made in the first 100 days of his second term, taking stock of the gains achieved in this this short time and the groundwork laid to sustain the successes from his initial tenure, with a focus on the state's development and transformation in the next four years.

The Governor has made substantial progress in charting the path toward long-awaited development in various sectors, including Economic Empowerment, Job Creation, Healthcare, Social Welfare, Education, Human Capital, Infrastructure Development, Security, Good Governance, Accountability, and Agriculture. A significant step has been taken through the provision of subsidized fertilizers, seeds, and other inputs, aimed at supporting farmers during the 2023 wet season farming and ensuring food security within the state and the nation.

In response to the economic challenges posed by the removal of fuel subsidies at the national level, Governor Yahaya introduced a series of initiatives, including an additional 40% subsidy on essential fertilizers and agricultural commodities, in a bid to bolster food production and combat hunger.

Another noteworthy initiative during the first 100 days of his term is the establishment of a Special Honorary Advisory Committee (SHAC), comprising seasoned technocrats and accomplished experts in various fields. This committee is tasked with guiding the implementation of the government's developmental policies and programs, underscoring the Governor's commitment to turning challenges into opportunities and providing effective solutions for the state's issues.

Governor Inuwa, who previously invested significantly in road construction and rehabilitation during his first term, has continued to prioritize infrastructural development. These efforts aim to facilitate mobility, particularly for farmers and the transportation of agricultural produce. Furthermore, the Governor engaged in a series of meetings and consultations to foster collaborations and partnerships, seeking prosperity for Gombe State.

During this period, the Governor met with key figures such as the President, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Vice President Kashim Shettima, the United States Ambassador to Nigeria, the National Security Adviser Malam Nuhu Ribadu, and the Secretary to the Government of the Federation Sen. George Akume, addressing issues related to national security and other important developments. His commitment to enhancing collaboration for human capital development and addressing environmental challenges was evident, not only for his state but also for the broader Northern region and the nation.

Governor Inuwa, who previously elevated Gombe's ranking as the top performer in Ease of Doing Business for two consecutive years by KPMG, continued his efforts to improve the welfare and well-being of the people. He established a Drugs and Medical Consumables Management Agency to ensure continuity in enhancing healthcare services.

Beyond these accomplishments, Governor Inuwa demonstrated promptness by nominating 17 candidates for commissioner positions to the state house of assembly, adhering to constitutional timelines. He also appointed key officials and aides to effectively steer the state's governance.

Recognizing the economic challenges faced by citizens, the Governor distributed food items as palliatives to approximately 420,000 beneficiaries and provided support to 30,000 households, mitigating the impact of the fuel subsidy removal.

Additionally, the state government initiated a monthly salary increment of N10,000 for workers across the state and local government services, reinforcing the Governor's dedication to the welfare of the people (Gwambawa).

Governor Inuwa launched various programs aimed at bringing tangible change and a brighter future for the people of Gombe state. To underscore his commitment to reforming and improving the state's higher education system, he established a visitation panel to assess the state's institutions of higher education and propose enhancements for the future.

Within his first 100 days, Governor Inuwa also revealed plans to strengthen the state's healthcare sector by recruiting an additional 200 personnel to enhance efficiency and service delivery. He also took steps to utilize the newly completed ultra-modern mega motor park for the benefit of the state, appointing a task force to facilitate its operations and transition from the existing major motor parks in the state capital to the new facility in Gombe metropolis.

When heavy rainfall damaged a crucial road and bridge connecting Gombe and Bauchi states, Governor Inuwa promptly visited the scene to assess the situation and urged the federal government to embark on comprehensive rehabilitation and reconstruction of the federal highway, addressing the recurrent road washouts and bridge collapses, which also impact neighboring states.

The accomplishments achieved within the first 100 days of Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya's second term have instilled newfound hope and optimism among the people of Gombe state. These achievements stand as a testament to his inspiring vision for the state and his commitment to its progress.