Gombe State Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya, CON, has presented a budget proposal of N320.11 billion to the State House of Assembly for consideration and passage into law.
Tagged the “Budget of Resilience and Sustainability,” the proposal seeks to address socio-economic challenges and promote sustainable development across the state.
While presenting the appropriation bill, Governor Yahaya emphasized its alignment with local, national, and global economic realities.
He disclosed that N111.09 billion, representing 34.7% of the budget, is allocated for recurrent expenditure, while N209.02 billion, or 65.3%, is earmarked for capital projects.
The Governor noted that significant allocations were made to key sectors, with the economic sector receiving over N138 billion, followed by works, housing, and transport, which got more than N85 billion.
The social sector was allocated approximately N59 billion, while health and education each received over N32 billion. Higher education was allocated N15 billion, and more than N19 billion was set aside for water resources, environment, and forest resources.
Governor Yahaya also outlined measures to maximize resource utilization through fiscal reforms, reduced spending, and private sector investment. “This budget reflects our commitment to addressing malnutrition, improving healthcare, and enhancing education through strategic investments,” he said.
He explained that funds have been allocated to nutrition programs aimed at improving dietary diversity and reducing malnutrition rates among vulnerable populations.
He further stated, “The 2025 budget aligns with the state’s ten-year development plan, DEVAGOM, which envisions a more resilient and prosperous Gombe State. By integrating the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), the government aims to achieve sustainable and inclusive development.”
Reflecting on achievements under the 2024 budget, Governor Yahaya highlighted progress in infrastructure, education, and healthcare.
He noted the construction of over 800 kilometers of roads, 1,600 classrooms, and the establishment of Integrated Tsangaya Model Schools across all 11 Local Government Areas.
Other accomplishments included the completion of the Dukku Campus of Gombe State University, settlement of academic staff allowances, and funding for the Lincoln University Kumo Campus.
In the health sector, the Governor mentioned the establishment of primary healthcare facilities in all 114 wards, upgrades to the State Specialist Hospital and General Hospitals in Kaltungo and Bajoga, and the construction of a new general hospital in Kumo.
“The Go-Health Scheme now provides affordable healthcare coverage to about 300,000 residents, including 100,000 vulnerable individuals,” he added.
He also highlighted strides in agriculture, the rehabilitation of the Gombe Regional Water Supply Scheme, construction of over 1,250 boreholes in rural areas, and implementation of small-town water supply schemes.
On pension liabilities, the Governor stated, “We cleared over N14 billion in inherited gratuity liabilities and remain up-to-date with pension payments. An additional N4.27 billion has been earmarked for gratuity liabilities in 2025.”
Governor Yahaya restated his administration’s commitment to bridging the infrastructure gap with projects such as the 3-arm zone initiative.
“This ambitious project will leave a lasting legacy for future generations by providing modern facilities for the executive, legislative, and judicial arms of government,” he declared.
The Speaker of the Gombe State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Abubakar Luggerewo, commended the Governor for prioritizing the needs of the people through his policies and programs.
He assured the Governor of the timely passage of the 2025 budget, emphasizing that it aligns with the aspirations of Gombe residents.
The Speaker praised the Governor’s achievements under the 2024 budget, citing progress in health, education, urban development, and water infrastructure.
He also lauded the 3-arm zone project, describing it as a bold step toward efficient governance. “The strong collaboration between the executive and legislative arms has been instrumental in delivering impactful policies and programs,” he concluded.
