Gombe State Governor Inuwa Yahaya has stated that while Boko Haram has been significantly weakened over the past six years, it has not been fully defeated. He made this announcement during the 13th meeting of the Northern States Governors’ Forum in Maiduguri on Saturday.
“Although Boko Haram’s influence has diminished, attacks on our communities continue. We are also facing new challenges like banditry and communal clashes,” he remarked.
Governor Yahaya highlighted that the ongoing insecurity has rendered many citizens displaced and unable to return home. He lamented the lack of progress on key regional infrastructure projects, such as the Mambilla hydropower scheme, railway connections, and broadband expansion. Health and education remain pressing issues in the area.
Reflecting on the North East Governors’ Forum, which started in Gombe in March 2020, he noted it was formed out of necessity due to challenges that surpass the capabilities of any single state. “Insecurity, banditry, cross-border crime, poor infrastructure, and humanitarian crises know no boundaries,” he emphasised.
Despite these challenges, the Governor recognised advancements in infrastructure, power generation, economic growth, and security. He pointed to the Kolmani exploration project as a significant opportunity but stressed the need for it to create actual jobs and revenue. He also called for the legitimate mining of the region’s natural resources to benefit the local population rather than fuel crime.
Regarding human capital, he urged his fellow governors to confront the stark realities: “Too many children remain out of school, and our health indicators are among the worst in Nigeria. We must be honest about the challenges we face.”
The meeting held historical significance as it could be the last before the 2027 general elections. Five founding governors from Adamawa, Bauchi, Borno, Gombe, and Yobe will finish their two-term tenures in the coming months, making this gathering a crucial moment for reflection and leadership transition.
