…Council ratifies major investments in roads, healthcare, energy, commerce, sports
From Sani Gazas Chinade, Damaturu
The Yobe State Executive Council (EXCO), under the leadership of Governor Mai Mala Buni, who was represented by his deputy, Hon. Idi Barde Gubana (Wazirin Fune), has ratified approvals totaling ₦59.8 billion for critical development projects across the state.
The meeting, held on Monday at the Council Chamber, Government House, Damaturu, deliberated on key issues affecting the state, including infrastructure, healthcare delivery, energy, commerce, sports development, and security.
In his remarks, the Deputy Governor, standing in for the Governor, commended the administration’s sustained efforts in boosting food security and advancing infrastructural development. He also urged citizens to continue supporting government initiatives and to pray for peace and more impactful programmes.
A breakdown of the approvals shows that ₦34.1 billion was committed to road construction, including the 59-kilometre Kaliyari–Bayamari road across Tarmuwa and Bursari local government areas, and the 53-kilometre Bayamari–Gaidam road linking Bursari and Gaidam.
In the commerce sector, ₦8.58 billion was approved for the construction of Jajimaji Modern Market, as well as external works at Machina and Buni-Yadi modern markets.
The council also ratified ₦5.35 billion for transport and energy projects, covering procurement of power generators, installation of underground armoured cables at Government House, and deployment of 2,200 solar-powered streetlights across 11 local government headquarters. The projects further include construction of a 33KV line from Bukarti to Kanamma and installation of transformer substations and distribution networks in Kanamma.
Healthcare delivery received ₦5.54 billion for the construction of a new office complex for the Ministry of Health and Human Services and Hospital Management Board headquarters, renovation of general hospitals in Damagum and Nangere, and installation of dental equipment at the Yobe State Specialist Hospital, Damaturu. Additional generators will also be provided to key hospitals across the state.
In the sports sector, ₦3.35 billion was approved for additional works on the ongoing reconstruction and upgrade of the 27 August Stadium in Damaturu.
The council reiterated its commitment to policies and programmes aimed at improving the living conditions of the people and sustaining development across Yobe State.