From Abdulrazaq Mungadi, Gombe
The Gombe State Government has commenced the construction of a befitting secretariat for the State Council of Emirs and Chiefs, a project aimed at strengthening the traditional institution’s role in governance and community development.
Director General of the Gombe State Joint Development Agency (GSJDA), Mr. Mahmood Yusuf, disclosed this in an interview with newsmen, noting that the new complex will feature a modern conference hall, offices for all the Emirs and Chiefs in the state, a press center, and other facilities tailored to support the operations of the council.
According to him, the initiative reflects the administration’s recognition of the critical role traditional rulers play in peacebuilding, cultural preservation, and grassroots mobilization. “The project is not just about infrastructure; it is about giving the traditional institution the dignity and functional space it deserves,” Yusuf stated.
Beyond the new secretariat, the DG highlighted the agency’s completed and ongoing projects across the state, including the renovation and remodeling of palaces of Emirs, Chiefs, and District heads, as well as the installation of over 5,000 solar-powered street lights in 10 out of the 11 Local Government Areas (LGAs). He further disclosed that plans are underway to establish a mini solar-powered electricity grid in Balanga LGA to boost energy access and complement efforts of the state government in that regard.
On the agency’s operational model, Yusuf explained that the GSJDA adopts a community-driven, joint funding approach, executed in partnership with LGAs. Projects are selected based on community requests and priorities, ensuring local ownership and sustainability. Funding responsibilities are shared between the state government and LGAs, with contribution ratios adjusted according to each council’s financial strength.
“The GSJDA complements state development efforts through community-level projects such as markets, roads, shops, and street lighting. Our guiding principle is to ensure equitable development that touches the lives of people at the grassroots,” he said.
The DG noted that all activities of the agency are aligned with the Gombe State Development Plan, which emphasizes inclusivity, sustainability, and improved living conditions for citizens. He added that the GSJDA is overseen by a governing council chaired by the state governor, with all 11 LGA chairmen as members and the DG serving as secretary.
Yusuf assured that the secretariat for the council of emirs and chiefs will be delivered on schedule, stressing that the project represents a milestone in strengthening synergy between traditional institutions and modern governance in Gombe state.
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