By Ben Ngwakwe, Gombe
The Department of Public Administration at Gombe State University (GSU) has hosted its maiden International Conference, a development described as a major milestone in the institution’s academic and research growth.
The opening ceremony, held on Tuesday at Haruna Rashidi Hall, drew academics, policymakers, security experts and public-sector practitioners from across the country.
Head of Department, Professor Matthew Funsho Bello, described the event as historic for both the department and the university. He noted that the conference theme, “Governance, Insecurity and National Development in Nigeria: Issues and Challenges,” was timely given the complexities of the nation’s socio-economic and security challenges.
“This gathering of distinguished scholars, public-sector experts, policymakers and practitioners from across the country marks a major milestone in our collective quest to address the vexing issues affecting our national life,” Professor Bello said.
According to him, the theme reflects “the urgent need for academia, security agencies and public-sector experts to engage in constructive dialogue on how addressing insecurity and governance can drive sustainable development in Nigeria.”
Professor Bello extended appreciation to key dignitaries, including the Royal Father of the Day, Alhaji (Dr.) Abubakar Shehu Abubakar, Emir of Gombe and Chairman of the Gombe State Council of Emirs and Chiefs; the Keynote Speaker, Professor Ibrahim Abubakar Njodi, Secretary to the State Government; and the 1st Lead Paper Presenter, AIG Enyinaya Adiogu, Assistant Inspector General of Police, Gombe State.
He also acknowledged the 2nd Lead Presenter, Professor Sulaiman Abubakar Olanrewaju, Director-General of the National Institute for Legislative and Democratic Studies (NILDS), Abuja, as well as the Special Guest of Honour, Alhaji Abubakar Hassan, Director-General and Permanent Secretary of the Gombe State Bureau for Public Service Reform.
Other dignitaries recognised included the Accountant-General of Gombe State, Dr. Aminu Umar Yuguda; the Head of Civil Service, Alhaji Ahmed Kashimu Abdullahi; and the Chief Host, Vice Chancellor of GSU, Professor Sani Ahmed Yauta.
Bello commended participants for honouring the invitation, noting that their presence reflected “commitment to academic excellence, professional growth and the expansion of research frontiers in governance and national development.”
He also praised the University Management and the Conference Organising Committee for their support, which he said made the event possible.
“As the host of this conference, we are confident that the deliberations and interactions over the next few days will inspire new insights, foster collaborations and generate practical solutions to some of the pressing challenges confronting our country,” he added.
He welcomed all attendees and expressed hope that the conference would be enriching, intellectually stimulating and memorable.
