By; LARABA USMAN, Gombe The Gombe State Government is taking strong steps to support traditional leadership and improve the lives of people in
By; LARABA USMAN, Gombe
The Gombe State Government is taking strong steps to support traditional leadership and improve the lives of people in communities across the state.
Through the Gombe State Joint Development Agency (GSJDA), the government has embarked on renovation of palaces for Emirs, Chiefs, and District Heads, started building a modern secretariat for traditional rulers, and delivered solar power and infrastructure projects to many areas.
These palaces are not only homes to traditional rulers, but also important cultural and leadership centers where decisions are made and community issues are resolved.
By giving these places a new look, the government is showing respect for heritage while also making them more comfortable and functional.
Following the palace renovations, the state government has now begun the construction of a befitting secretariat for the State Council of Emirs and Chiefs. This new building will serve as the official headquarters for all traditional rulers in Gombe State.
It will include a large conference hall, private offices for each Emir and Chief, a media center, and other modern facilities.
According to the Director General of GSJDA, Dr. Mahmood Yusuf, the secretariat is a long-overdue project that reflects the value of traditional institutions in promoting peace, unity, and development at the grassroots level.
“This is not just about infrastructure,our traditional leaders play a vital role in maintaining peace, preserving culture, and serving as a bridge between the government and the people. They deserve a proper place to work from,” he said.
Traditional rulers in Gombe have long helped to resolve local disputes, keep communities together, and support the government in rural development. The new secretariat will help improve communication and collaboration between them and government agencies.
In addition to supporting traditional institutions, the GSJDA is also carrying out several other important projects.
One of the most impactful is the installation of over 5,000 solar-powered street lights across 10 out of the 11 local government areas of the state.
These lights have improved security, helped traders stay open at night, and made it easier for people to move around after dark.
The agency has also completed the construction of market stalls, grain market, Briges ,construction of Local Government Council secreteriat in some places and policd station among
These efforts support small businesses and provide better spaces for local trade. All projects are selected based on requests from the communities themselves, ensuring that the real needs of the people are met.
Looking ahead, the GSJDA is working on a plan to install a mini solar-powered electricity grid in Balanga Local Government Area. This will help bring electricity to communities that do not have regular access, boosting healthcare, education, and small businesses in the area.
Dr. Yusuf said all of these projects are in line with the Gombe State Development Plan, which focuses on fairness, long-term growth, and improving the lives of people across all 11 local government areas.
The agency is overseen by a council chaired by the state governor and includes all LGA chairmen, ensuring that development is balanced and community-driven.
“We don’t just build projects and leave,we involve the people from the beginning so that they take ownership. When people are involved, they care more, and the projects last longer,” he added.
These improvements make the whole area look and feel better, combining tradition with modern progress.
The palaces look more organised and inviting. Locals would feel proud of their community, and visitors would see a place that respects its history while embracing progress. Overall, it conveys a strong sense of positive change, where culture and development go hand in hand.
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