The Gombe State Government has approved ₦1.149 billion for the execution of solar street light projects and other key infrastructure across three local government areas (LGAs).
The approval was granted during the 5th Joint Project Council (JPC) Meeting of the Gombe State Joint Project Development Agency, presided over by Gov. Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya, on Thursday.
Buldr. Mahmood Yusuf, PhD, Director-General of the agency, disclosed this while briefing journalists after the meeting.
He said the projects approved for execution include:
Installation of solar street lights along newly constructed roads in Kumo, Akko LGA at ₦740 million.
Fencing of the NALDA market and provision of solar street lights in Kwadon, Yamaltu/Deba LGA at ₦362 million.
Expansion of the grains market and construction of six public toilets in Billiri LGA at ₦47 million.
According to Yusuf, the grains market project was initially approved in 2024, and work is ongoing. However, an additional 231 meters has been added to the expansion plan, leading to an increase in contract cost from ₦112 million to ₦159 million.
Speaking on security concerns, Barr. Sani Ahmad Haruna, Chairman of Gombe Local Government and State ALGON Chairman, raised concerns over increasing incidents of theft in public buildings, including schools, cemeteries, and other facilities.
He said the council resolved to take decisive measures by deploying the Gombe State Security, Traffic, and Environmental Corps (GOSTEC) and Operation Hattara for enhanced security.
He further stated that Operation Hattara will now cover all 11 LGAs of the state.
Rt. Hon. Fatima Binta Bello, Chairperson of Shongom LGA, reaffirmed the council’s commitment to strengthening human resources in schools and healthcare facilities.
She said the council resolved to recruit qualified teachers with National Certificate in Education (NCE) to address manpower gaps in schools.
She also disclosed that local governments would collaborate with the state government to upgrade Primary Healthcare Centres (PHCs) and absorb contract health workers engaged under the now-elapsed GAVI programme.
In his remarks, Dr. Ahmad Wali Doho, Chairman of Kwami LGA, stated that the council had taken steps to address farmer-herder conflicts through the resurvey and remapping of grazing reserves and cattle routes.
He said the council resolved that anyone who encroaches on cattle routes or grazing reserves must vacate immediately upon detection by authorities.
The JPC meeting highlights Gov. Yahaya’s commitment to infrastructure development, security, and improved social services across Gombe State.
