The Gombe State Government has approved N1.149 billion for solar street light projects and other infrastructure developments across three local government areas (LGAs).

The approval was granted at the 5th Joint Project Council (JPC) Meeting of the Gombe State Joint Project Development Agency, presided over by Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya on March 13th, 2025.

Ismaila Uba Misilli, Director-General (Press Affairs), Government House, Gombe, in a statement disclosed that Dr. Mahmood Yusuf, Director-General of the Joint Project Development Agency, announced the approvals during a press briefing following the meeting.

“Today, we held the 5th Joint Project Council meeting, presided over by His Excellency, where the following projects were approved,” he stated.

The approved projects include the installation of solar street lights along newly constructed roads in Kumo, Akko Local Government, at a cost of N740 million; the fencing and solar lighting of the NALDA market in Kwadon, Yamaltu/Deba, at N362 million; and the expansion of the grains market and construction of six public toilets in Billiri, at N47 million.

“For the grains market, the project was approved earlier in 2024, and work is currently ongoing,” Dr. Yusuf explained.

“The chairperson of the local government later submitted a request to expand the market by an additional 231 meters and for the construction of six toilets within the market.

The initial contract, awarded at N112 million, has now been revised to N159 million due to the expansion.”

Barr. Sani Ahmad Haruna, Gombe State ALGON Chairman, highlighted the council’s commitment to tackling theft in public buildings.

“The council has resolved to take strict measures to curb the menace by deploying GOSTEC and Operation Hattara for enhanced security,” he said, adding that “the council has decided to expand the scope of Operation Hattara to cover all the 11 LGAs.”

Rt. Hon. Fatima Binta Bello, Chairperson of Shongom Local Government, reaffirmed the council’s commitment to consolidating the gains of Governor Yahaya’s administration, particularly in education and healthcare.

“The council has resolved to strengthen human resources in schools and healthcare facilities,” she stated.

“Local governments will identify and recruit qualified teachers with National Certificate in Education (NCE) to bridge gaps in schools. Additionally, we have agreed to upgrade Primary Healthcare Centres (PHCs) in collaboration with the state government. We will also absorb contract staff engaged under GAVI programs and recruit additional personnel to enhance service delivery.”

Dr. Ahmad Wali Doho, Chairman of Kwami Local Government, announced steps to address farmer-herder conflicts.

“It has been resolved that anyone who encroaches on cattle routes or grazing reserves must vacate the area immediately the authorities become aware,” he said.