The Department of Public Administration, Gombe State University, on Tuesday hosted its maiden International Conference on “Governance, Insecurity and National Development in Nigeria: Issues and Challenges,” bringing together top scholars, policymakers and students in a robust discourse on Nigeria’s development trajectory.
Held at the Haruna Kadir Rashid Hall, the conference set off on a high note as the keynote speaker and Secretary to the State Government, Professor Ibrahim Abubakar Njodi, delivered a forceful assessment of governance reforms under Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya from 2019 to 2025.
Professor Njodi declared that Gombe has “demonstrated that transformative governance, institutional innovation and inclusive development are achievable at the subnational level,” stressing that the Yahaya administration’s model stands out as a blueprint for states seeking sustainable growth.
According to him, “Through visionary leadership, comprehensive planning, digital transformation and a relentless focus on people-centered outcomes, Gombe State has set new benchmarks in governance, security and sustainable development.”
He noted that the state’s progress is rooted in strong political will and long-term planning. “The experience of Gombe underscores the importance of political will and long-term vision in driving reform. By embedding reforms in law, policy and dedicated institutions, the state has ensured continuity beyond political cycles.”
Highlighting technological reforms, the SSG said the state’s embrace of digital governance has improved transparency and accountability. “Our adoption of digital transformation has enhanced citizen engagement and strengthened trust between government and the governed,” he stated.
Professor Njodi added that the state’s security strategy, anchored on community policing, traditional institutions and youth empowerment, has reinforced social cohesion. “Gombe’s inclusive approach to security has built resilience and trust across communities,” he said.
He also emphasized the role of monitoring and evaluation in deepening governance reforms. “Institutionalising monitoring and evaluation ensures our governance process remains evidence-based, adaptive and responsive,” he noted.
On inclusivity, he stressed that the mainstreaming of gender, disability and vulnerable group concerns has shaped the state’s development agenda. “Sustainable development must be equitable. Gombe has pursued that principle deliberately,” he said.
Delivering opening remarks on behalf of the Vice Chancellor, Professor Sani Ahmed Yauta, the Deputy Vice Chancellor (Administration), Professor Danladi Umar, described the conference theme as timely and compelling. “At a time when Nigeria faces economic and security pressures, this conversation is not only necessary but urgent,” he said.
He applauded the selection of speakers, noting that their diverse backgrounds enriched the discourse. “The choice of lead speakers reflects a cosmopolitan spread in knowledge. Professor Njodi, in particular, embodies depth and experience,” he added.
Earlier, the Head of Department, Professor Mathew Funsho Bello, said the event marks a major milestone in the department’s intellectual engagement with Nigeria’s developmental challenges. “This conference reflects our commitment to interrogating issues that define the nation’s social and economic realities,” he said.
A major highlight was the presentation of an Award of Excellence to Professor Njodi in recognition of his contribution as keynote speaker and his support toward the success of the inaugural conference.
JD/IO
Office of the Secretary to Government Gombe State.
