Gombe State Governor, Muhammadu Yahaya, on Monday signed into law the bill establishing 13 new Local Council Development Areas, in what he described as a “historic moment” in the democratic evolution of the state.
The bill, passed unanimously by the Gombe State House of Assembly, brings the number of grassroots administrative units in the state to 24, complementing the existing 11 local government areas.
“This marks a historic moment in the democratic evolution of Gombe State,” Governor Yahaya declared at the signing ceremony held at Government House, Gombe. “The creation of the LCDAs will revolutionize governance by making it more accessible and responsive to the needs of the people.”
The new LCDAs and their headquarters are: Akko North (Amada), Akko West (Pindiga), Balanga South (Bambam), Billiri West (Taal), Dukku North (Malala), Funakaye South (Tongo), Gombe South (Bolari), Kaltungo East (Wange), Kwami West (Bojude), Nafada South (Birin-Fulani), Pero-Chonge (Filiya), Yamaltu East (Dadinkowa), and Yamaltu West (Zambuk).
The governor explained that the new administrative units derive their legitimacy from Section 4(7) of the Nigerian Constitution, which empowers state assemblies to make laws for peace, order, and good governance.
“Constitutionally, Gombe State has only 11 local government areas, the second lowest in the country, even though our landmass surpasses 15 other states.
“Similarly, our population exceeds that of several states that have more LGAs. This structural imbalance has deprived many of our grassroots population of access to government services.”
Yahaya argued that the imbalance had also “exacerbated insecurity through the proliferation of ungoverned spaces,” adding that the creation of new LCDAs was a decisive corrective measure.
He directed both the new LCDAs and the existing LGAs to immediately prioritize four sectors he described as the foundation of meaningful grassroots development: security, basic education, primary healthcare, and agriculture.
“These four pillars are the bedrock upon which we shall build a prosperous, secure, and self-reliant Gombe State,” the governor stated. “I urge local administrations to work hard and deliver a positive and remarkable difference in six months.”
While acknowledging concerns about the costs of establishing new councils, Yahaya stressed that the long-term benefits far outweigh the expenses.
“If Gombe State had not been created, and we had remained under Bauchi State, we would not be anywhere near our current level of progress,” he said. “Like the creation of Gombe State in 1996, the LCDAs will usher in a new era of development.”
He added that the state government studied the Lagos LCDA model and adapted lessons from it: “Our LCDA framework incorporates these lessons while addressing our unique political, social, and economic realities.”
To ensure a smooth take-off, the governor announced the constitution of a high-powered Transition Technical Committee chaired by the Deputy Governor, with members drawn from the state executive, ALGON, local government service, and civil society.
“The general mandate of this committee is to ensure seamless transition from the parent local governments while maintaining continuity of essential service delivery,” he said, adding that he would sign an Executive Order in the coming days to give the committee legal backing.
Interim Management Committees will also be put in place, alongside a phased implementation strategy.
Yahaya commended traditional rulers, community leaders, and political stakeholders for their support.
“Your guidance will be invaluable in ensuring the smooth implementation of the LCDAs,” he said. He also thanked the public for what he described as “an outpouring of support and goodwill,” which reflects the harmony between government and the people.
The governor continued saying, “The creation of these 13 LCDAs marks the beginning of a new era—one that is characterized by more inclusive development, stronger grassroots governance, and greater opportunities for all our people.”
