Since assuming office in 2019, Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya of Gombe State has proven to be a committed and transformative leader, prioritizing infrastructure development and economic growth. Over the past six years, Gombe has experienced a radical transformation, underpinned by key infrastructure projects, new opportunities for businesses, and an overarching vision for industrial development. Roads, trade, and a growing industrial hub have positioned the state as a rising force in Nigeria’s economy.
One of the most notable achievements under Governor Yahaya’s administration is the significant improvement in the state’s road network. Recently, the state government approved new road projects covering over 74 kilometers in rural communities across Akko, Dukku, Funakaye, and Balanga local government areas. These projects are not mere road repairs; they are a lifeline for rural communities that have long been disconnected from key economic hubs.
For example, the Kembu–Kidda–Panda–Garin Alhaji Road (25 km), Kwanan Daniya–Daban Fulani–Bajoga Magaba Road (18 km), and the Dukku–Zaune Road (31 km) are all part of a broader strategy to enhance transportation and trade in rural areas. These roads, which were previously impassable during the rainy season, now facilitate smoother movement for farmers, traders, and students, linking these communities to Gombe’s urban economy.
This road infrastructure expansion is part of Governor Yahaya’s visionary Network 11-100 initiative, a plan to deliver at least 100 kilometers of quality roads in each of Gombe’s 11 Local Government Areas (LGAs). With the World Bank’s RAAMP initiative contributing to the funding, the state has committed a substantial N3 billion in counterpart funding to ensure the realization of this ambitious plan.
However, road infrastructure alone is not the only game-changer for Gombe. The state is positioning itself as a future industrial powerhouse in the northeast, thanks to the development of the Muhammadu Buhari Industrial Park, a 1,000-hectare economic hub located near Dadinkowa. The park is designed to be a beacon of industrial growth, and with N5.5 billion approved for its development, including roads, power, and water, it is well on its way to becoming a fully operational industrial center by the end of 2025.
Already, nine companies have set up shop within the park, with an additional 14 awaiting approval to begin construction. The park is poised to attract even more investors, with over N60 billion in investments already secured. This industrial park is not only a source of pride for Gombe but also a significant driver of economic activity in northern Nigeria. It aims to create thousands of jobs, spurring growth in sectors like manufacturing, logistics, and agriculture.
The ripple effect of these infrastructure investments is being felt across Gombe’s business community. Artisans, food vendors, truck drivers, and welders are all benefiting from increased economic activity. With the state’s efforts to streamline regulations and improve the business environment, Gombe was recently ranked Nigeria’s Best State for Ease of Doing Business.
As the Muhammadu Buhari Industrial Park grows, it is expected to create over 250,000 jobs, nearly four times the number of civil servants in Gombe State. In addition to creating employment opportunities, the park will also contribute significantly to the state’s revenue and encourage corporate social responsibility (CSR) projects by businesses operating within it.
Governor Yahaya’s administration has also been mindful of the social impact of development. Property owners affected by road projects have been compensated, and communities impacted by the World Bank-funded ACReSAL gully erosion project have also been considered for compensation. This approach ensures that no one is left behind as Gombe continues its march toward modernization.
A critical aspect of the industrial park’s success is its infrastructure, which includes dedicated power and water systems. The park is powered by a 132kV transmission line, providing 16MW of electricity from the national grid, with an additional 150MW of solar power in the pipeline. The water supply system is capable of delivering 1.5 million liters of water daily, meeting the needs of businesses and residents within the park.
With an unwavering commitment to development, Governor Yahaya’s vision for Gombe State is becoming a reality. The combination of modern infrastructure, industrial development, and a business-friendly environment is setting the stage for a prosperous future. As the Muhammadu Buhari Industrial Park comes online, Gombe is poised to become an economic powerhouse in the region.
As Gombe’s industrial ambitions unfold, the state is not just paving roads; it is paving the way for a future of prosperity, opportunity, and transformation. The rise of this new industrial hub is not just about businesses—it’s about creating a legacy of progress that will benefit generations to come.