By Ben Ngwakwe, Gombe
Governor Muhammadu Yahaya of Gombe State on Monday declared that effective local government administration remains the foundation for tackling insecurity, deepening democracy and accelerating rural development, as he swore in newly elected chairpersons of the state’s 11 Local Government Areas and 13 Local Council Development Areas.
Addressing the newly inaugurated council chairpersons at the Government House, Gombe, Yahaya urged them to justify the confidence reposed in them by prioritising service delivery, transparency and grassroots security.
The governor said the successful conduct of the June 27 local government elections, which he described as peaceful, transparent and credible, reaffirmed the people’s confidence in the ruling All Progressives Congress ahead of the 2027 general elections.
He charged the council leaders to make governance at the grassroots the party’s strongest campaign tool.
“As we gradually approach the 2027 General Elections, let your performance become the strongest campaign for our party. Let the people see, feel and experience the dividends of democracy in every ward, every district and every community.”
Yahaya stressed that local governments have become increasingly important in addressing Nigeria’s security challenges because of their closeness to the people.
“Local Governments have become even more critical in fostering community engagement, gathering grassroots intelligence and strengthening local peace-building mechanisms.”
The governor defended his administration’s creation of 13 Local Council Development Areas, insisting the reform was designed to bring government closer to the people rather than merely expand bureaucracy.
According to him, the state has completed the construction of modern headquarters for the LCDAs, harmonised personnel and concluded all administrative processes required for their smooth take-off.
“The LCDA reform is here to stay. It remains one of the most transformative governance initiatives undertaken in the history of our State.”
Yahaya also highlighted what he described as a remarkable financial turnaround of local governments under his administration.
He recalled that when his administration assumed office in 2019, many councils struggled to pay salaries, accumulated gratuities and had virtually abandoned service delivery.
“Through prudent financial management, fiscal discipline, transparency and responsible leadership, we reversed that unfortunate trend. Today, our Local Governments are financially stable and more resilient.”
The governor further praised the Joint Projects Development Agency, describing it as a successful model of collaboration between the state and local governments in delivering infrastructure, healthcare, education, water supply and agricultural projects.
“Our experience has shown that when State and Local Governments work together with sincerity of purpose, the ultimate beneficiaries are the people.”
Calling on the new chairpersons to govern with integrity and accountability, Yahaya warned against placing personal interests above public service.
“Today, you are assuming responsibility for the hopes and aspirations of millions of citizens who have entrusted you with their mandate. Let your decisions always reflect the collective interest of the people rather than personal considerations.”
He noted that despite significant progress, many rural communities still grapple with insecurity, poor infrastructure, unemployment and limited economic opportunities, insisting that stronger local governments remain the solution.
The governor commended the Local Government Secretaries for managing council affairs during the transition period and lauded the Gombe State Independent Electoral Commission, security agencies, political parties, election officials, observers, the media and residents of the state for ensuring peaceful elections.
He also appealed for continued public support, prayers and collaboration with government, saying sustainable development requires the active participation of traditional rulers, religious leaders, youth and women groups, civil society organisations and other stakeholders.
Yahaya congratulated all the newly sworn-in chairpersons and prayed for wisdom and courage as they begin their tenure.
Chairman of Gombe Local Government Area, Abdullahi Bappa, lauded the governor for his support towards the realisation of their ambitions, adding “We want to appreciate you, we will never let you down, your excellency. We will extend our hands to residents of the state.”