The Soun of Ogbomosho Land, His Imperial Majesty, Oba Ghandi Afolabi Olaoye, Orumogege III, has described Gombe State as a model of peace, unity, and economic progress in Nigeria.
The monarch made this remark during a courtesy visit to Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya at the Government House, Gombe, as part of his week-long visit to the state.
Oba Olaoye, visibly impressed by the stability and development in Gombe, stated that his expectations were exceeded, particularly in terms of peaceful coexistence and infrastructural development.
“I took a walk at night to see things for myself across major streets of Gombe metropolis, and what I saw was remarkable. Even in Ogbomosho, we do not have such beautiful streetlights. Gombe is clean, peaceful, and safe,” he said.
The monarch praised the Gombe State Government for fostering unity among diverse ethnic and religious groups, noting that the state’s governance model should serve as an example for the rest of Nigeria.
Oba Olaoye also highlighted the state’s economic potential, revealing his decision to relocate one of his businesses to Gombe.
“We do not work at night in Ogbomosho because of darkness, but with what I have seen here, I am inspired. I am assuring you that I will move one of my companies to Gombe State to contribute to its thriving economy,” he declared.
He commended the hospitality extended to him by the Gombe State Government and the Emir of Gombe, Dr. Abubakar Shehu Abubakar III (CFR), while also appreciating the Yoruba community in Gombe for their loyalty and warm reception.
In his remarks, Governor Inuwa Yahaya attributed Gombe’s peaceful atmosphere to the strong social bonds among its diverse communities.
“Our strategic location in the Northeast has attracted people from various backgrounds, and our peaceful coexistence has significantly boosted our economy. The Yoruba community, in particular, has made invaluable contributions to our state’s economic growth,” the governor said.
Governor Yahaya also praised Oba Olaoye for making the visit despite misleading narratives about security in the Northeast.
“As a dogged leader, you defied discouraging impressions and fulfilled your promise of coming to Gombe. This visit has rekindled the historic bond between Gombe and Ogbomosho in Oyo State. Be assured that we will reciprocate this goodwill in due course,” he added.
Earlier, the Emir of Gombe, Dr. Abubakar Shehu Abubakar III, who also serves as the Chairman of the Gombe State Council of Emirs and Chiefs, described Oba Olaoye’s visit as a significant step toward strengthening the long-standing relationship between the people of Gombe and Ogbomosho.
He noted the deep-rooted trade and economic ties between the two states and emphasized that intermarriages over the decades have further cemented their bond.
“Social relationships flourish when people from different ethnic and religious backgrounds embrace one another as one. The presence of Your Majesty in Gombe today is a testament to our shared history and commitment to unity,” the Emir remarked.
The visit has been widely praised as a symbol of national unity and a reflection of Gombe’s growing reputation as a center of peace and economic progress.
