The Human Capital Opportunities for Prosperity and Equity Governance (HOPE-GOV) programme, a World Bank-supported initiative of the Federal Government of Nigeria, is aimed at strengthening financial and human resource management in the basic education and primary healthcare sectors.
The initiative, which is designed to deliver maximum results, also focuses on improving service delivery in three critical sectors across participating states.
As part of efforts to enhance implementation, HOPE-GOV has organised a one-day implementation support mission for North-East states, as well as Jigawa and Plateau states, at the International Conference Centre in Gombe.
The mission is intended to review progress made so far while providing technical support to benefiting states ahead of the upcoming results verification exercise.
The National Project Coordinator, Dr. Assad Hassan of the Federal Ministry of Budget and Economic Planning, explained this during the session.
Declaring the session open, Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya, represented by the Secretary to Government of Gombe State, Professor Ibrahim Abubakar Njodi, said the project is coming at a crucial time when subnational governments are expected to demonstrate efficiency, transparency, and accountability in managing public resources.
He noted that good governance remains essential for inclusive growth, poverty reduction, and improved livelihoods for citizens.
The Special Adviser to Governor Inuwa Yahaya on Development Partners Coordination, Dr. Ishiyaku Babayo, said Gombe State is fortunate to have focused leadership committed to leveraging opportunities that drive development across sectors.
He added that although the HOPE-GOV initiative is still at an early stage in the state, its full implementation will significantly improve primary healthcare services and basic education outcomes.
Also speaking, the Executive Chairman of SUBEB in Gombe State, Professor Esrom Joktan Toro, expressed confidence that the intervention will yield positive results, particularly in addressing the issue of out-of-school children and improving educational infrastructure.
Joshua Danmalam, Information Officer SGS office.
