Kamal Hammajo, Gombe, August 25, 2025
Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya, has signed into law the bill establishing 13 Local Council Development Areas (LCDAs) in Gombe State, a move he described as “a historic moment in the democratic evolution of our State.”
The signing ceremony, held at the Government House Banquet Hall in Gombe, followed the unanimous passage of the bill by the Gombe State House of Assembly. The new LCDAs will complement the state’s existing 11 Local Government Areas (LGAs), making governance closer and more accessible to the people.
Rt. Hon. Abubakar Muhammad Luggerewo & Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya Before presenting the bill to the governor for assent, the Speaker of the Gombe State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Abubakar Muhammad Luggerewo, expressed appreciation to the people of the State for their support during the public hearing. He also commended Governor Yahaya for his vision and leadership in initiating the bill.
“This achievement would not have been possible without the overwhelming support of our people and the foresight of His Excellency, who proposed this bill. The House acted with patriotism and unity to ensure its smooth passage,” the Speaker said.
The newly created LCDAs and their headquarters are:
Akko North - Amada
Akko West - Pindiga
Balanga South - Bambam
Billiri West - Taal
Dukku North - Malala
Funakaye South - Tongo
Gombe South - Bolari
Kaltungo East - Wange
Kwami West - Bojude
Nafada South - Birin-Fulani
Pero-Chonge - Filiya
Yamaltu East - Dadinkowa
Yamaltu West - Zambuk
Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya Governor Yahaya said the creation of the LCDAs was backed by provisions of the Nigerian Constitution, which empower State assemblies to legislate for peace, order, and good governance, while mandating governors to execute such laws.
He emphasized that Gombe, with only 11 LGAs, is disadvantaged compared to many States with smaller landmass and populations but more LGAs. This imbalance, he noted, has deprived grassroots communities of adequate access to government services and contributed to insecurity.
“The creation of the LCDAs will revolutionize governance in our State by making it more accessible and responsive to the needs of the people,” the governor stated. “They will serve as catalysts for development, deepen participatory democracy, and ensure rapid service delivery.”
Governor Yahaya directed all LGAs and the newly created LCDAs to immediately prioritize four critical sectors: Security, Basic Education, Primary Healthcare, and Agriculture. He charged local administrators to make “remarkable differences in six months.”
To ensure smooth operations, Interim Management Committees will be established, while a Transition Technical Committee headed by the Deputy Governor will oversee the take-off process. The committee will include top State Officials, ALGON representatives, and NULGE leadership.
While acknowledging concerns about the cost of establishing new councils, the Governor insisted the long-term benefits outweigh the initial financial implications. “Like the creation of Gombe State in 1996, these LCDAs will usher in a new period of growth and prosperity for our people,” he added.
Earlier, Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Ibrahim Abubakar Njodi, in his welcome address, described the development as a milestone that would “enhance service delivery, bring government closer to the people, and provide platforms for greater community participation.”
He commended the governor for his vision and leadership, while urging the new LCDAs to embrace proactive governance, prudent resource management, and open communication with communities.
The event was attended by top government officials, traditional rulers, community leaders, and representatives of civil society.
Comments
Post a Comment