From Healthcare to Highways: 2024 Yobe’s year of progress under Governor Buni
In a detailed end-of-year press briefing, Governor Mai Mala Buni had on Thursday, December 19, outlined the substantial progress made by Yobe State in 2024, emphasizing transformative achievements across various sectors despite significant economic challenges.
Governor Buni described 2024 as a “very eventful year,” attributing the state’s advancements to effective management of resources.
”Through prudent management, we have turned around the fortunes of our people, making significant investments in healthcare, education, agriculture, and infrastructure,” he stated.
Governor Buni was represented at the annual press briefing by his deputy, Idi Barde Gubana, who was flanked by top cabinet members including the SSG, Baba Malam Wali, and the commissioner for Information, Abdullah Bego.
Under the Healthcare sector, the governor highlighted notable achievements of the government which earned it top accolades in North-East especially the primary healthcare leadership challenge, which brought the state $500,000.
The governor highlighted the recruitment of 311 healthcare professionals, including doctors and nurses, and the continuation of a free dialysis program for kidney patients. “Our commitment to health is unwavering,” Buni affirmed. Renovations at the State Specialist Hospital in Damaturu and new facilities at other hospitals underscore this dedication.
In agriculture, the state government launched its largest-ever empowerment initiative, investing N15.3 billion to support 5,340 farmers with necessary implements and inputs. Additionally, N1.7 billion was allocated for the procurement of assorted grains for the state’s strategic reserves. “This is a historic milestone for us,” the governor noted, emphasizing the administration’s focus on food security and farmer support.
The state’s social welfare initiatives have reached over 52,000 households with direct cash assistance and provided food and non-food support to nearly a million individuals. “We are committed to supporting our people at the grassroots,” Buni emphasized. Other empowerment efforts included training programs for youths, distribution of modern sewing machines, and financial grants to entrepreneurs.
Infrastructure developments were also a focal point, with extensive road construction and electrification projects underway. Governor Buni said major road projects including the ongoing construction of key highways and township roads, have been enhancing connectivity across the state. Additionally, the administration advanced rural electrification by installing solar street lights and upgrading power facilities in various towns.
“From roads to rural electrification, our goal is to enhance connectivity and service delivery,” he said.
Governor Buni had also taken time to outline his administration’s initiatives aimed at economic enhancement and environmental sustainability, emphasizing ongoing infrastructure projects and proactive strategies against climate change.
“Our administration is focused on boosting the state’s economy through trade and commerce,” he stated.
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This includes the development of new markets in Yunusari and Ngalda, and substantial progress in the construction of the Potiskum and Geidam Modern Markets, which are 75% and 70% complete, respectively. Additionally, the Potiskum Truck and Transit Park is at an impressive 85% completion, and the Damaturu Mega Shopping Mall at 45%. These projects are designed to stimulate economic growth and provide new opportunities for local businesses.
Further driving economic development, Buni announced the establishment of modern sesame seed processing factories in Machina and Nguru, with additional facilities in Potiskum and Damaturu nearing completion at 80%.
“These projects are essential for creating jobs and enhancing local agriculture,” he remarked, highlighting their potential to boost the agricultural sector and generate employment.
On the environmental front, Governor Buni addressed climate change as a critical issue. Recognizing it as a “threat multiplier,” he detailed initiatives aimed at environmental protection and management. The administration has provided solar-powered cooking stoves and hybrid solar charcoal stoves to reduce reliance on traditional fuels. Additionally, efforts to raise and distribute seedlings are part of a broader strategy to increase vegetation cover.
“We maintain quarterly refuse evacuation in key towns to keep our environment clean,” Buni added, emphasizing the administration’s commitment to maintaining a clean and sustainable environment.
To combat erosion and improve disaster preparedness, the state has undertaken erosion control measures, including the construction of a retain wall and stone pitching at Hayin Gada in Potiskum. Furthermore, six early warning weather stations have been established in various towns to enhance disaster readiness. “We are committed to safeguarding our communities against environmental challenges,” he affirmed.
On the security front, Buni praised the efforts of the Nigerian Army, police, civil defense, and local vigilante groups, acknowledging their crucial role in maintaining safety. “I urge them to continue their invaluable work in keeping our communities safe,” he emphasized, reiterating his administration’s commitment to bolstering security measures across the state.
Concluding his address, Governor Buni assured the people of Yobe State of his continued dedication to improving their quality of life. “In 2025 and beyond, we will not relent in our efforts to make life more meaningful for our people. We will do whatever it takes to continue to move Yobe State forward, Insha Allah,” he stated.
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