Gombe: Northern Christian leaders laud Gov Inuwa’s policy of inclusivity

Christian leaders from the 19 Northern states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), led by Rev. Dr. Yakubu Pam, have lauded Gombe State Governor, Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya, for his commitment to social inclusivity, economic growth, and infrastructural development.

Speaking at a dinner hosted by the Governor in honour of the visiting clergy and a delegation from the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) at the Banquet Hall of the Government House in Gombe, Rev. Pam highlighted Yahaya’s dedication to fostering unity and progress.

The delegation was in Gombe to felicitate with the Muslim community on the occasion of the Eid El-Fitr festival. According to Rev. Pam, the warm reception extended to them was a testament to the governor’s inclusive leadership, which he described as essential for regional and national development.

He further commended the Governor’s administration for its strides in infrastructural development, specifically citing the 40-megawatt hydropower project at the Dadinkowa Dam and the Muhammadu Buhari Industrial Park. These projects, he said, present “endless possibilities” for economic growth and investment opportunities in the state.

On security, Rev. Pam praised Governor Yahaya’s leadership for making Gombe a model of stability in Northern Nigeria. He also commended his efforts as Chairman of the Northern Governors’ Forum, particularly in fostering regional cooperation and addressing security challenges.

Expressing concern over insecurity, Rev. Pam condemned the recent killing of 16 Northerners in Edo State and urged both the Federal and Edo State governments to ensure justice is served.

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In his response, Governor Yahaya reiterated the importance of unity and mutual understanding, describing Gombe as a “mini Nigeria,” where people of diverse ethnic and religious backgrounds coexist peacefully. He attributed this harmony to the people’s support and the government’s unwavering commitment to security and stability.

He noted that much of the insecurity in Northern Nigeria is fueled by material greed but expressed optimism that a focus on legitimate economic opportunities would curb crime. He also highlighted the challenges posed by competition for scarce resources, particularly between farmers and herders, exacerbated by population growth and inadequate infrastructure.

Governor Yahaya explained that his administration’s establishment of the Muhammadu Buhari Industrial Park was a strategic move to attract investors and boost the region’s economy, much like the late Northern Premier’s vision for economic development. He emphasized that the park’s success would not only benefit Gombe but also bring prosperity to the entire North-East region and Nigeria at large.

He concluded by stressing that poverty, disease, and hunger transcend ethnic and religious boundaries, calling for collective efforts to restore stability and hope across the country.

A special prayer session for Gombe State and Nigeria was led by Reverend Father Dodo, as stated in a release by Ismaila Uba Misilli, Director-General of Press Affairs at the Government House.

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