October 9, 2025, marks the 64th birthday of Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya, CON (Dan Majen Gombe), Governor of Gombe State and Chairman of the Northern States Governors’ Forum — a leader whose governance has redefined development and reform in Nigeria’s North-East.
Known for his commitment to public service, Yahaya has built a reputation as a principled leader driven by integrity, hard work, and compassion for his people. His approach to governance emphasises accountability and empathy, transforming challenges into opportunities for sustainable progress.
Yahaya’s career, spanning private enterprise and public service, reflects a lifelong dedication to fairness and transparency — qualities that have earned him respect across political and social divides.
Over the past six years, his administration has steered Gombe State through remarkable transformation. Under his leadership, the state now ranks highest in the Ease of Doing Business index in Northern Nigeria and is widely recognized as the most peaceful state in the North-East — a testament to his emphasis on stability and inclusive growth.
In education, reforms have dramatically improved outcomes. Secondary school pass rates have risen from 28 percent to 87 percent, while more than 350,000 out-of-school children have been reintegrated into the classroom. The establishment of new model schools equipped with modern learning facilities underscores his commitment to youth empowerment and human capital development.
In the health sector, the introduction of the GoHealth insurance scheme has made quality healthcare more affordable and accessible. Every ward in the state now has at least two functional primary healthcare centers, complemented by modern secondary health facilities in each senatorial district. Agencies such as GoPharma, GODMA, and the Hospital Management Board have enhanced transparency, ensuring that public health resources are efficiently managed.
Economically, Yahaya’s vision is anchored on industrialization and infrastructure. The Muhammadu Buhari Industrial Park stands as a flagship project driving investment, innovation, and job creation. Similarly, the ambitious Network 11-100 project has delivered hundreds of kilometers of roads across all local government areas, boosting connectivity, commerce, and community development.
Agricultural reforms under his watch have strengthened rural economies, increased productivity, and empowered youth and women through targeted intervention programs. His government’s consistent support for farmers has positioned Gombe as a model for agrarian growth in Northern Nigeria.
In social welfare, Yahaya’s administration has demonstrated compassion and responsibility. The prompt payment of pensions and the systematic clearance of inherited gratuity arrears have restored dignity to retirees and strengthened trust in government.
Colleagues and associates describe him as a mentor who promotes discipline, excellence, and innovation. His popular motto, “Ko Gezau” (meaning “no retreat”), reflects his courage and determination in pursuing the best outcomes for his state.
At 64, Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya stands as a model of visionary and accountable leadership. His achievements in infrastructure, education, health, and governance have redefined public trust and rekindled hope in Gombe State’s future.
As he celebrates another milestone, citizens and well-wishers across the country salute a leader whose reforms continue to shape Gombe into a beacon of progress, peace, and prosperity.
