Gombe State Government Commits ₦35 Billion to Critical Infrastructure and Urban Renewal
The Gombe State Government has officially signed contract agreements for the execution of several major infrastructure projects
The Gombe State Government has officially signed contract agreements for the execution of several major infrastructure projects valued at over ₦35 billion. This development follows the approval by the State Executive Council (SEC), presided over by Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya, and aims to expand the state's road network, upgrade public facilities, and enhance urban connectivity. The projects, which cover strategic locations across the state, are a central component of the administration's "Network 11-100" initiative, designed to construct at least 100 kilometres of roads in each of the 11 local government areas.
Strategic Road Construction and Connectivity
A significant portion of the newly signed contracts is dedicated to road infrastructure, which the government views as a prerequisite for economic growth. The Commissioner for Works, Housing and Transport, Engr. Usman Maijama’a Kallamu, confirmed that ₦26.7 billion has been allocated for the construction and reconstruction of 20.1 kilometres of strategic roads. Key projects within this category include:
• ATC Gombe to GSU Express Road: A new link road designed to ease traffic flow between the Abubakar Tatari Ali Community and the Gombe State University axis.
• Layin Speaker Road: Reconstruction and extension of this route to Kasuwan Mata Road.
• Family Homes Estate Road: Construction of a 6.3-kilometre road network within the newly developed estate behind the NNPC Depot in Tunfure, extending into the northern suburbs of the district at a cost of ₦7.097 billion.
These projects are expected to improve access to markets, schools, and healthcare facilities while reducing travel time for residents and commercial transporters.
Upgrading Public Infrastructure and Aviation
Beyond road works, the Gombe State Government is investing in the modernisation of public utilities. The signed agreements include the renovation and upgrade of the Gombe International Airport, Lawanti, with a budgetary provision of ₦669.9 million. The upgrade will feature a new administrative block and modern sanitation facilities to align the airport with international aviation standards.
Additionally, the state has allocated ₦714.3 million for infrastructure at the Qatar Foundation site along the Southern Bypass. This investment ensures that the foundation's facilities are fully supported by essential services, including access roads, to maximise their benefit to the citizenry. In the Shehu Abubakar District, a new Gombe Geographic Information Systems (GOGIS) Area Office will be constructed for ₦202.6 million to decentralise land administration services.
Fiscal Alignment and Economic Impact
The signing of these contracts coincides with the recent enactment of the 2026 "Budget of Consolidation," where Governor Yahaya earmarked ₦428.5 billion representing nearly 70% of the total budget for capital expenditure. By committing substantial funds to infrastructure, the government aims to stimulate the local economy, create jobs for skilled and unskilled labourers, and attract private-sector investment into the state’s burgeoning industrial zones.
Commissioner Kallamu urged the various contracting firms to adhere strictly to the project specifications and timelines. He emphasised that the government maintains a zero-tolerance policy for substandard work, as these projects are intended to be "legacy assets" for the people of Gombe.
Conclusion: A Forward-Looking Development Agenda
The commencement of these ₦35 billion projects marks a critical phase in Gombe State’s urban renewal strategy. By addressing long-standing infrastructure deficits, the Inuwa Yahaya administration is positioning the state as a competitive sub-national entity ready for industrial expansion. For residents and investors alike, the successful delivery of these projects will likely translate into improved property values, lower logistics costs, and a higher quality of life, further consolidating Gombe’s status as a regional hub in the North-East.
