By Adamu Abubakar Kumo

Gombe State Governor, Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya, is on a mission to transform the state’s urban centers into modern, well-planned havens.

This commitment is evident in Gombe’s aspiration to boast an impressive urban landscape, despite being one of Nigeria’s youngest states. Governor Yahaya’s dedication to infrastructural development, including well-constructed and maintained roads, solar-powered streetlights, and designated motor parks, is laying the groundwork for this vision.

This vision was echoed by Bappayo Samanja Maudo, the Executive Chairman of Gombe State Urban Planning Development Authority (GOSUPDA). “Governor Inuwa Yahaya is firmly committed to observing modern planning principles,” Maudo emphasized while outlining GOSUPDA’s achievements which he attributed to the zeal and commitment of the governor.

He said Governor Yahaya’s unwavering support for urban planning and controlled development has empowered GOSUPDA to tackle uncontrolled urban sprawl. “We go out on operations every Saturday,” explained Maudo, detailing their routine efforts to prevent encroachment on public rights-of-way, halt illegal structures, and ensure adherence to building codes.

GOSUPDA’s focus extends beyond aesthetics. “We have uncovered places where illegal activities and crimes are perpetrated. Drug trafficking, child trafficking, and prostitution are just some of the issues carried out. Structures harboring such activities are either repurposed for public use or demolished, prioritizing public safety and social order”, he revealed.

Financial self-sufficiency is another notable goal achieved by the authority. Since Maudo’s appointment, GOSUPDA has increased revenue collection by 50%, rising from ₦100 million to ₦150 million in just six months. “We even intend to generate more,” he declared, announcing ₦200 million at their new target in alignment with Governor Yahaya’s vision of a financially independent Gombe State.

GOSUPDA collects revenue through building permits, approvals for fuel stations, installation fees for communication lines and masts, and fines levied for regulation violations, including the reckless uprooting of streetlights.

Maudo attributes GOSUPDA’s success to the Governor’s “strong zeal, political will and commitment.” Governor Yahaya actively monitors physical development within the state capital and promptly orders for immediate action to address any mismanagement or violations observed.

Governor Yahaya’s aspirations for Gombe State extend far beyond immediate improvements. He envisions Gombe as a world-class city, offering its residents essential services and attracting investors to fuel economic growth and prosperity.