Gombe State Governor, Muhammadu Yahaya, has forwarded a bill to the State House of Assembly seeking the creation of 13 new Local Council Development Areas (LCDAs), describing the move as a “historic step” to deepen grassroots governance and development.
In a statement issued on Wednesday by the Director-General, Press Affairs, Government House, Ismaila Uba Misilli, the governor said the proposal was aimed at bringing governance closer to the people, improving service delivery, and promoting inclusive democracy across the state.
The statement explained that the new LCDAs, which will operate as administrative sub-divisions of existing local government areas, are designed to address urgent needs in security, education, healthcare, infrastructure, and social services, particularly in rural and underserved communities.
Governor Yahaya noted that they would also work closely with traditional institutions and community leaders to maintain peace, promote development, and tackle emerging security concerns, in line with the Gombe State Chieftaincy Law (as amended).
The proposed LCDAs are Akko North with headquarters in Amada, Akko West in Pindiga, Balanga South in Bambam, Billiri West in Tal, Dukku North in Malala, Funakaye South in Tongo, Gombe South in Bolari, Kaltungo East in Wange, Kwami West in Bojude, Nafada West in Birin Fulani, Pero-Chonge in Filiya, Yamaltu East in Hinna, and Yamaltu West in Zambuk.
To ensure smooth implementation, the bill provides for Interim Management Committees to oversee operations in each LCDA pending the conduct of substantive local elections. According to the statement, the reform will be rolled out in phases with clear operational frameworks, staffing structures, and budgetary allocations “to guarantee efficiency from the onset.”
Calling on lawmakers to give the proposal swift passage, Yahaya said it “reinforces Gombe State’s position as a leader in inclusive governance and grassroots-driven development in Nigeria.” He also urged residents to embrace the plan, saying, “I call on all citizens to support this visionary initiative because it is designed for the collective good and the advancement of every community in Gombe State.”
