Gombe, model for development — World Bank

The World Bank has described Gombe State as a model for other states in Nigeria for its remarkable achievements in the implementation of numerous development projects and programmes.

The commendation was made by the World Bank Country Director for Nigeria, Dr Ndiame Diop, during a courtesy visit to Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya at the Gombe Governor’s Lodge in Abuja.

Ndiame Diop appreciated the commitment of Gombe to executing World Bank-supported projects across critical sectors such as education, healthcare, infrastructure, environment, agriculture, and water resources.

He also noted that Governor Inuwa Yahaya’s approach has not only accelerated development but has also demonstrated a clear example of effective governance and accountability in the utilization of funds.

Among the standout projects mentioned by the WB Country Director were the Nigeria COVID-19 Action Recovery and Economic Stimulus (NG-CARES) programme, the Rural Access and Mobility Project (RAMP), the SPTAS and the Sustainable Urban and Rural Water Supply, Sanitation and Hygiene (SURWASH), which he noted have significantly improved the well-being of citizens by enhancing infrastructure, increasing access to clean water, and boosting economic opportunities.

Ndiame Diop emphasized that Gombe’s commitment to these projects has set a high standard for other states in Nigeria, adding that the World Bank now sees the state as a successful model of partnership that effectively addresses local challenges while fostering sustainable growth and development.

He, however, also pointed out areas where the state could further strengthen its efforts, especially as some of the ongoing projects are approaching their completion phases.

He emphasized the need for sustained momentum and strategic planning to ensure that the impact of these projects continues to be felt even after they wind down.

He stressed that Gombe must take proactive steps to consolidate the gains already made by institutionalizing reforms and integrating them into the state’s development agenda.

This, he noted, would ensure that the benefits of these programs are not only sustained but scaled up for greater long-term impact.

The World Bank, he assured, remains committed to supporting Gombe State in these efforts, encouraging the government to explore new avenues for collaboration that would address emerging challenges and ensure the continuity of progress in key areas.

Governor Inuwa Yahaya, in his remarks, acknowledged these observations and reassured Dr. Diop that his administration is fully committed to re-strategize.

He expressed optimism that with continued partnership and innovation, Gombe State would not only maintain its developmental trajectory but also deepen the successes achieved through ongoing and future projects.

He highlighted the importance of strategic partnerships with international organizations like the World Bank in driving progress and providing much-needed services to the people of Gombe State in line with his Development Agenda.

The Governor emphasized that the state’s priorities are fully aligned with its development agenda, and Gombe remains committed to leveraging World Bank projects, along with initiatives from other development partners, to achieve its goals.

He pointed to the Network 11-100 project, part of which is being executed in collaboration with RAMP, as well as the ACReSAL project and the SPTAS programme, as clear examples of the state’s success through its strong partnerships with the World Bank.

He reiterated that his government will remain focused on impactful projects that improve the quality of life for all citizens, especially in areas such as education, health, agriculture, infrastructure, and human capital development as contained in a statement by Ismaila Uba Misilli Director-General (Press Affairs) Government House, Gombe.