₦50 Billion Erosion Control Project to Safeguard Communities
In a decisive move to address environmental degradation, the Council approved a 21-kilometre gully erosion control project as part of the World Bank-supported Agro-Climatic Resilience in Semi-Arid Landscapes (ACReSAL) initiative.
Awarded to TRIACTA Limited, the project will cover key erosion-prone areas—from behind the Police Commissioner’s residence in Pantami to Kwarin-Hayin Kwarin Misau and GGSS Doma.
To mitigate the socio-economic impact, an additional ₦2.1 billion has been set aside as compensation for those affected by property loss or livelihood disruption.
Education Boost: GSS Malam Sidi Transformed into GSU Faculty of Agriculture
The Council also approved the conversion of Government Secondary School, Malam Sidi, into the Faculty of Agriculture under Gombe State University (GSU).
With ₦1.1 billion approved as a take-off fund, the new faculty is set to begin operations next academic year. It will offer 10 degree programmes under four departments, including:
- BSc Agriculture, Animal Science
- BSc Agribusiness, Agricultural Economics & Extension
- BSc Crop Science, Soil Science, Horticulture
- BSc Fisheries, Forestry and Wildlife Management
This marks a significant leap in agricultural education and food security efforts in the state.
₦891 Million for Critical Road Repairs
In a bid to improve connectivity and rural access, the SEC approved ₦891 million for road rehabilitation in the Akko (Amada), Bula-Gari, Abuja-Bula, and Kwami-Gari corridors.
This intervention aims to restore mobility and reduce transport costs for residents in these areas, especially during the rainy season.
₦1.3 Billion Loan Waiver Saves State from Fiscal Pressure
A major highlight from the meeting was the state’s successful negotiation of a 70% waiver on a legacy Federal Mortgage Bank of Nigeria (FMBN) loan.
The original loan of ₦2.7 billion, taken by a past administration for housing projects in Tumfure and Dukku Road, was reduced to ₦1.4 billion, saving the state over ₦1.3 billion.
Commissioner for Finance, Muhammad Gambo Magaji, hailed the move as a reflection of Governor Yahaya’s strategic financial leadership and debt management expertise.
Gombe Resolves 13-Year Legal Dispute with Zenith Bank
In a long-awaited legal breakthrough, the state reached an out-of-court settlement with Zenith Bank over a failed ₦1 billion contract from 2011 involving the supply of school dictionaries.
According to Attorney General Barr. Zubair Umar, the agreement ends years of litigation—reaching even the Supreme Court—and ensures closure while saving legal costs.
Conclusion: Forward-Thinking Leadership in Action
Governor Inuwa Yahaya’s administration continues to show commitment to inclusive development, environmental sustainability, education, and prudent financial management.
These new projects are expected to transform lives, boost the local economy, and position Gombe as a model for responsible and people-centered governance.
End