Gombe State has continually elevated its position in economic evaluations, both domestically and internationally,
culminating in the recent acknowledgment from PCL with an AAA (Excellent Performance Rating). This recognition
solidifies Gombe’s status as the premier state among the 36 states of the federation, crediting its achievements
to transformative economic and fiscal strategies, alongside substantial investments in health, education,
infrastructure, environment, and human capital enrichment.
Despite enduring years of insurgency in the Northeast subregion, Gombe State emerges as a standout regionally,
outpacing all other states in the Northeast, as per the report. Governor Inuwa Yahaya inherited a state burdened
with over 110 billion Naira in debt and resorting to borrowing to fulfill salary obligations in 2019. Nonetheless,
under his stewardship, the state has transitioned towards reduced reliance on federal government allocations while
attaining consistent economic advancement.
Preceding Governor Inuwa Yahaya’s tenure, Gombe grappled with meeting its financial commitments, resorting to
monthly borrowings to sustain operations. However, his administration ushered in a period of sustained economic
expansion and prosperity, characterized by the implementation of robust economic policies.
The state’s accomplishments encompass being rated as the foremost state in business facilitation by the Presidential
Enabling Business Environment Council (PEBEC) for two successive years (2021 and 2022). Furthermore,
a Tracka NG 2023 report unveiled Gombe’s diminishing dependence on federal allocations and its burgeoning appeal
to investors.
As articulated by Gambo Magaji, the Commissioner for Finance and Economic Development in Gombe State, these triumphs
are the outcomes of deliberate economic policies meticulously executed by the Inuwa Yahaya administration over time.
Dr. Abdulkadir Saleh, a political economist, offers insights into Gombe State’s ratings, recognizing the significance of the state’s achievements in the realm of economic advancement and governance.
Uba Misilli, the Director General of Press Affairs in Gombe State, attributes the state’s economic prosperity to
purposeful policies implemented by the government, poised to yield even more favorable results for residents.
With several government initiatives awaiting implementation, Gombe State officials anticipate further economic
prosperity and enhanced living standards for its inhabitants in the foreseeable future.
-26 September 2024
