The Gombe State Governor, Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya, has assured that the ₦40 billion allocated to the state under Phase 1.0 of the Federal Government’s NG-CARES intervention programme was disbursed with transparency, accountability, and financial probity.
The governor, represented by the Secretary to Government of Gombe State, Professor Ibrahim Abubakar Njodi, made this known on Wednesday when he received the NG-CARES Steering Committee Chairman, Auwal Mohammed, and other national officers of the programme at the Government House, Gombe.
He explained that Gombe State had fully utilised the funds to support individuals, business owners, and communities across different categories, adding that the administration cannot wait for the commencement of NG-CARES 2.0.
According to him, the administration is committed to empowering citizens for self-reliance and shared prosperity.
He further noted that critical sectors such as health, education, and agriculture were in poor condition when the present administration came on board, hence the need for strong partnerships with intervention programmes like NG-CARES to reverse the trend.
The governor thanked NG-CARES for supporting Gombe State at a crucial time and assured that the state government would continue to collaborate with relevant organisations to improve the living conditions of its people.
Earlier, NG-CARES Steering Committee Chairman, Auwal Mohammed, said the team was in Gombe as part of a nationwide assessment tour to evaluate the effectiveness of the programme.
He urged governments at all levels to prioritise intervention schemes like NG-CARES, which are designed to reach and uplift the most vulnerable members of society. He added that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is committed to the success of the programme, hence the resolution to commence NG-CARES Phase 2.0.
Mohammed commended Governor Yahaya and the programme’s operating staff in the state for effectively utilising the ₦40 billion allocated under Phase 1.0.
Also speaking, World Bank representative, Dr Fenen Ade, disclosed that Gombe State occupies a special place in the Bank’s project portfolio due to its consistent commitment to joint project implementation.
He praised Yahaya’s administration for its strategic leadership in human capital development, urban renewal, and economic growth.
• Joshua Danmalam, Information Officer SGS’ office.
