By Yunusa Isa, Gombe
The newly appointed Gombe State Commissioner for Lands and Physical Planning, Ibrahim Shehu Turaki, has formally assumed office, pledging to build a modern, transparent, and technology-driven land administration from the ground up.
Turaki described the creation of the ministry as a landmark decision by Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya designed to drive economic growth and urban development.
“The establishment of this ministry is a bold statement of intent to strengthen land administration, improve physical planning and unlock the enormous economic potential of our land resources,” Turaki declared.
“We therefore have no time to waste. We shall hit the ground running by building a responsive, transparent and digitally driven ministry that meets the expectations of government and the people of Gombe State”, he added.
Stressing that land is one of the state’s most valuable assets, the Commissioner promised to simplify administrative processes, improve public access, and run an open-door policy centered on teamwork and professionalism.
He issued a stern warning against indiscipline and sharp practices, emphasizing that accountability will guide every action.
“We cannot tolerate corruption or any form of sabotage in the execution of the mandate entrusted to us by His Excellency, Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya,” Turaki warned.
“Every officer and staff member must understand that public service is a sacred responsibility. There will be zero tolerance for sharp practices, abuse of office, compromise of standards or any conduct that undermines public trust and the developmental vision of this administration”.
He added, “We have the rare privilege of building this institution from the ground up. Future generations will judge us by the foundation we lay today. Our performance will not be measured by promises but by results.”
Turaki was welcomed at the ministry’s headquarters by the Director of Administration and Finance Muhammad Musa, the Director General of the Gombe Geographic Information Systems (GOGIS) Abubakar Elnafaty, and the State Surveyor General Zakari Isa Kwami.
Responding on behalf of the workforce, the Director of Administration and Finance, Muhammad Musa, congratulated the Commissioner and assured him of the total commitment and cooperation of the staff.
Similarly, GOGIS Director General Abubakar Elnafaty and Surveyor General Zakari Isa Kwami expressed readiness to collaborate closely with the ministry to advance digital land administration, geospatial management, and ongoing reforms across Gombe State.