Gombe Gov Swears In 23 Commissioners, Issues Tough Anti-Corruption Warning

Speaking during the inauguration ceremony held at the International Conference Centre in Gombe on Saturday, the governor emphasized that the administration has entered its final year in office, leaving little time for the new appointees to adjust before delivering on their responsibilities. He explained that the commissioners were selected based on competence while ensuring equitable representation across the state’s Local Government Areas and Local Council Development Areas.

Governor Yahaya stressed that the newly inaugurated officials must immediately commence the implementation of government policies and programmes, noting that they have a duty to serve the people faithfully and contribute to the successful completion of his administration’s development agenda.

Addressing the political climate ahead of future elections, the governor maintained that his administration would remain focused on governance rather than engaging in political confrontations with opposition parties. He stated that the government’s achievements and completed projects across the state would serve as the strongest basis for seeking continued public support.

The governor also commended the Gombe State House of Assembly for its prompt screening and confirmation of the commissioner nominees, describing the strong partnership between the executive and legislature as a key factor behind the successes recorded by his administration over the past seven years.

He further praised the state’s Permanent Secretaries for maintaining stability in governance following the dissolution of the State Executive Council in April 2026, noting that government operations and public service delivery continued seamlessly throughout the transition period.

Yahaya charged the newly appointed Special Advisers to provide strategic policy guidance and innovative ideas capable of strengthening government programmes, while urging the Permanent Secretaries to uphold professionalism, administrative excellence and prudent financial management. He emphasized that close cooperation between political office holders and career civil servants remains vital to achieving the administration’s objectives.

The governor issued a stern warning against corruption, abuse of office and all forms of misconduct, reminding the appointees that public office is a sacred trust that must be exercised solely in the interest of the people.

He also appealed to traditional rulers, community leaders, civil society organisations and other stakeholders to support the new officials in advancing the state’s development agenda.

Reflecting on the achievements of his administration, Yahaya highlighted the execution of numerous infrastructure, public service and socio-economic development projects across all 240 wards of Gombe State over the past seven years. He expressed confidence that the administration’s performance would remain its strongest campaign message in the lead-up to future elections.

Following the inauguration, the governor assigned portfolios to the 23 commissioners, covering key ministries including Agriculture and Food Security, Budget and Economic Planning, Education, Finance and Economic Development, Health, Justice, Works and Infrastructure, Water Resources, Youth and Sports Development, Women Affairs and Social Development, Housing and Urban Development, Information, Internal Security, Environment, Trade and Industry, among others, as part of efforts to strengthen governance and accelerate development across the state.