The Gombe State Government has signed a ₦48.6 billion contract with Triacta Nigeria Limited for the construction of an 18-kilometre gully erosion control project, aimed at addressing one of the most severe environmental challenges in the state.
Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya, flagged off the project on Tuesday in Hayin Misau, Gombe metropolis, during a ceremony that also featured the payment of compensation to affected persons and the commissioning of agricultural and mobility assets.
Speaking at the event, Governor Yahaya reaffirmed his administration’s dedication to environmental sustainability, public safety, and the preservation of lives and livelihoods.
“Since assuming office in 2019, we have pursued strategic environmental interventions, beginning with our Gombe Goes Green (3G) initiative, which saw the planting of over five million trees to combat desertification,” the Governor said.
He further cited past erosion control efforts under the Nigeria Erosion and Watershed Management Project (NEWMAP) and the Agro-Climatic Resilience in Semi-Arid Landscapes (ACReSAL) programme, including the 21km FCE(T) gully and 7.5km International Hotel erosion control corridors.
Yahaya announced that all residents within a 10-meter buffer zone of the Doma project would be compensated, with symbolic cheques presented to some affected individuals during the event. He added that the project would also introduce fishponds, poultry farms, and livelihood support schemes to enhance local resilience.
He praised the ACReSAL National Coordination Office and the World Bank for their technical and financial support, while calling on citizens to safeguard the infrastructure from vandalism.
In a related development, the governor commissioned 12 tractors, 3 Hilux vehicles, 12 tricycles, and 1 Hiace bus to boost agricultural productivity and environmental response efforts.
Commissioner for Environment, Forest and Water Resources, Hon. Saidu Mohammed Fawu, disclosed that more than 200 active gullies threaten communities in the state. He noted that through past projects, over nine communities were saved, with over ₦2.1 billion disbursed in compensation.
“We estimate that this current intervention will benefit more than 1.8 million people directly or indirectly,” he added, urging contractors to adhere strictly to timelines and quality standards.
Chairman of Akko Local Government, Hon. Muhammad Danladi Adamu, lauded the governor for fulfilling a long-standing need. “Many came and promised, but it’s only under Governor Inuwa that we’ve seen real action,” he said, describing the project as “life-saving and transformational.”
Similarly, Hon. Musa Muhammad Wuro Biriji, representing Akko North in the State Assembly, said the intervention had restored community trust in governance.
Managing Director of Triacta Nigeria Limited, Engr. Eli Abu Fahad, assured the state of the company’s commitment to delivering a high-quality project within the 30-month timeframe.
“This is more than a contract; it is a mission to save lives and restore the environment,” Fahad stated.
The Lamido of Gona, HRH Alhaji Abdulkadir Abdussalam, described the project as crucial for food security and sustainable development. He commended the government’s decision to pay compensation and hailed the initiative as “a legacy of protection and prosperity.”
Dr. Sani Adamu Jauro, State ACReSAL Coordinator, reported that the 21km FCE(T) gully project had reached 98% completion and had drawn commendations from development partners, including the World Bank.
He highlighted the broader impacts of the environmental projects, noting improvements in security, school enrolment, public health, and overall community welfare.
Speaking on behalf of host communities, Dr. Sadiq Adamu, Chairman of Hayin Misau Development Association, expressed gratitude to the governor.
“Since 1967, this bridge and erosion control have been political rhetoric. Today, under Governor Inuwa Yahaya, it is a reality. We thank you,” he said.
He pledged the community’s support in preserving the infrastructure for future generations.
