Gombe Govt Allocates 365 Hectares for GSU Faculty of Agriculture in Malam Sidi
...Council Approves Solar Street Lights, Sets Up Committee to Tackle Water Crisis
Gombe, July 28, 2025 — The Gombe State Executive Council has approved the allocation of 365 hectares of land for the newly established Faculty of Agriculture at the Gombe State University (GSU), Malam Sidi Campus, marking a major step toward advancing agricultural education and research in the state.
The announcement was made by the Commissioner for Information, Culture and Ethical Orientation, Mijinyawa Ardo Tilde, during a media briefing after the 49th Executive Council Meeting presided over by Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya, CON.
Support for Agriculture and Youth Development
Commissioner for Agriculture, Animal Husbandry and Cooperatives, Dr. Barnabas Malle, highlighted that the land, located in Garin Tafida, Yamaltu Deba LGA, will host demonstration farms to support practical learning and meet the National Universities Commission (NUC)’s accreditation requirements.
Dr. Malle recalled that the establishment of the Faculty of Agriculture was approved by the Council on May 26, 2025, and is situated in Malam Sidi, Kwami LGA.
Commissioner for Higher Education, Muhammad Shettima Gadam, noted that additional land acquisition in Kurugu, Kwami LGA is underway to further support the Faculty’s growth.
He also confirmed that the NUC has granted approval for the commencement of admissions for the 2025/2026 academic session, adding that the state government is working with stakeholders to ensure a smooth take-off.
“His Excellency is committed to expanding access to quality education and ensuring that our youth are equipped with the right skills and experiences,” Gadam emphasized.
Council Approves Solar Street Lights Across Gombe
In another major decision, the Council approved the installation of solar-powered street lights on newly constructed township roads in the state capital.
According to the Commissioner for Trade, Industry and Tourism, Nasiru Mohammed Aliyu, mni, the contract was awarded to Sigma Electric Nigeria Ltd at a cost of ₦1.068 billion, with an 8-week completion timeline.
“The project will enhance security, promote night-time economic activity, and improve the city’s aesthetics,” Aliyu noted.
Tackling Gombe’s Water Crisis
Addressing the water situation in Gombe metropolis, Commissioner for Environment, Water and Forest Resources, Saidu Mohammed Fawu, revealed that a high-level committee, chaired by the Deputy Governor, has been constituted to assess and revitalize water production and revenue systems.
He disclosed that while the government has invested over ₦9 billion in water production and distribution, the revenue generated during the period stood at only ₦140 million — a figure he described as “grossly inadequate.”
“The administration remains committed to improving water supply but will now focus more on enhancing revenue through a revised billing system,” Fawu added.
He confirmed that all booster stations have been completed and are currently managed by the contractor. Plans are also underway to engage a reputable private firm to manage the water scheme until full stability is achieved.