Gombe LG Summit: Governor Inuwa Yahaya Champions Local Government Autonomy, Fiscal Responsibility
By Aliyu Bala Gerengi, Gombe
Gombe State has emerged as a national model for local government autonomy and fiscal discipline, as top anti-corruption agencies, governance experts, and federal officials commended Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya’s reforms at the Gombe State Local Government Summit.
With the theme "Local Government Autonomy, Fiscal Responsibility, and Sustainable Development," the summit brought together key stakeholders to discuss innovative strategies for strengthening local governance, ensuring financial accountability, and promoting sustainable development at the grassroots level.
Governor Inuwa Yahaya’s Bold Reforms in Local Governance
Addressing the summit, Governor Yahaya detailed the bold steps his administration has taken to restore the financial autonomy and operational efficiency of local governments, emphasizing that his government had prioritized governance at the grassroots long before national discussions on local government autonomy gained traction.
"When we assumed office in 2019, the local government system in Gombe was dysfunctional, financially insolvent, and struggling to meet even basic obligations. We had ₦21 billion in unpaid gratuities and tens of billions in other outstanding financial liabilities,” he recalled.
Through prudent financial management, transparency, and strict fiscal discipline, Governor Yahaya’s administration has transformed Gombe’s local governments into self-reliant entities capable of delivering effective governance.
“I am proud to say that today, we have cleared over ₦17.2 billion in outstanding gratuities, and all 11 LGAs are now financially stable, capable of initiating and executing community-driven development projects,” he declared.
Anti-Corruption Agencies Endorse Gombe’s Governance Model
The Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Ola Olukoyede, delivered a strong endorsement of Gombe’s financial integrity, stating that Governor Yahaya’s leadership made EFCC’s job easier.
“If most governors were like you, I would have less to do,” Olukoyede remarked, underscoring how transparent governance practices in Gombe stand in sharp contrast to financial mismanagement in other states.
Delivering a paper titled "Combating Corruption in Local Governance: Strengthening Accountability and Financial Integrity," the EFCC Chairman urged local government chairmen to uphold accountability, resist corruption, and ensure that public funds are used for the benefit of citizens.
Similarly, Dr. Aliyu, Chairman of the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC), praised Gombe’s inclusive governance model, noting that its decision to involve ICPC in local government reforms sets a precedent for other states.
He emphasized that leveraging technology to track public funds and monitor service delivery would further enhance transparency and block financial leakages.
Federal Government Commends Gombe’s Leadership in Decentralization
Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Senator George Akume, described Gombe’s commitment to local government autonomy as a model for the country.
“This summit is a clear demonstration of Governor Inuwa Yahaya’s dedication to strengthening grassroots governance. Decentralizing power and ensuring fiscal responsibility are critical for sustainable development, and Gombe State is showing the way,” Akume stated.
He highlighted the Tinubu administration’s efforts to promote local government autonomy nationwide, aligning with Gombe’s ongoing reforms to empower local administrations.
Building a Sustainable Future Through Grassroots Development
Governor Yahaya outlined his administration’s long-term vision for local governance, rooted in the Gombe State 10-Year Development Plan (DEVAGOM), which prioritizes:
- Financial independence for local governments
- Equitable distribution of resources across all LGAs
- Strategic infrastructure development tailored to each community’s needs
- Capacity building for local government officials
"Our policies and programs are designed to empower local governments, encourage self-sufficiency, and foster sustainable economic growth. This is how we ensure that every community benefits from government interventions," the Governor said.
He also reaffirmed his commitment to working closely with traditional institutions, civil society organizations, and development partners to strengthen local governance.
Conclusion: Gombe as a Model for National Replication
The Gombe State Local Government Summit has positioned the state as a trailblazer in local government reforms, with stakeholders recognizing Governor Inuwa Yahaya’s leadership as a blueprint for achieving true grassroots development in Nigeria.
With anti-corruption agencies, the Federal Government, and governance experts endorsing Gombe’s model, the state’s approach to fiscal responsibility, autonomy, and development may serve as a template for other states seeking to strengthen their local government systems.
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