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Gombe Govt. prioritises economic growth, job creation in 2026 budget
Gombe Govt. prioritises economic growth, job creation in 2026 budget
Gov. Inuwa Yahaya of Gombe State, says his administration will prioritise economic growth, job creation and social welfare in 2026 budget.
Yahaya, who was represented by his deputy, Manassah Jatau, stated this on Thursday in Gombe, during the inauguration of a one-day citizens’ engagement on the 2026 budget.
He said the state government would increase investments in critical sectors and focus on consolidating ongoing reforms in 2026.
The governor said that his administration had made remarkable progress in areas such as fiscal responsibility, budget discipline, and public financial management reforms over the years.
According to Yahaya, the state is being ranked among the top states in Nigeria in transparency and ease of doing business in view of his administration’s progress.
“As we prepare the 2026 budget, our focus will remain on consolidating ongoing reforms and deepening investments in critical sectors that drive economic growth, job creation and social welfare.
“We are also committed to aligning our budget priorities with the State Development Plan and Nigeria’s National Fevelopment framework, as well as global commitments like the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs),” he said.
On the citizens’ engagements, Yahaya said the forum was a demonstration of his administration’s firm belief that good governance must be participatory, inclusive, relevant and responsive to the desire and priorities of the people.
“As a government that values transparency and accountability, we recognise that an effective budget is not merely a financial document.
“It is the roadmap for delivering the aspirations of our people and a reflection of our collective priorities as a state,” he said.
Yahaya assured that his administration remained resolute in promoting fiscal prudence, expanding the revenue base, adding that, “every naira spent delivers maximum value to the people of Gombe State.”
Yahaya urged citizens to contribute meaningfully to the design of the 2026 fiscal plan, stressing that their inputs would help shape decisions on how scarce public resources would be utilised.
Mr Salihu Baba-Alkali, Commissioner for Budget and Economic Planning, reiterated government’s commitment to foster transparency, inclusiveness and accountability in budgeting process.
Also, Muhammad Magaji, Commissioner for Finance and Economic Development, said the engagement had given voice to the people in the state’s development process.
Magaji said the engagement played a major role in strengthening partnership between government and the people.
“When we work together, we can create budget that not only meets the immediate needs of the population but also lays a foundation for a prosperous and resilient Gombe State in years to come,” he said.
Gombe Govt. prioritises economic growth, job creation in 2026 budget
IPCR Sees Lent, Ramadan Overlap as Call for National Healing
By: Michael Mike
As Christians begin Lent and Muslims commence Ramadan, the Institute for Peace and Conflict Resolution (IPCR) has urged Nigerians to use the rare overlap of the two sacred seasons to strengthen unity and reject divisive tendencies.
In a statement released on February 18, 2026, the institute described the simultaneous observance as more than a calendar coincidence, calling it a powerful symbol of shared values and collective responsibility in a nation grappling with insecurity and social strain.
IPCR said both seasons—marked by fasting, prayer and reflection—offer an opportunity for citizens to look beyond religious differences and recommit to peaceful coexistence. It stressed that the moral lessons of compassion, self-restraint and generosity embedded in Lent and Ramadan should translate into everyday interactions among Nigerians.
The institute warned against extremist narratives that distort religious teachings for narrow interests, noting that such interpretations undermine national stability. Instead, it encouraged faith leaders and communities to amplify messages that promote tolerance, dialogue and mutual respect.
According to the institute, true spirituality is measured not only by acts of worship but also by how individuals treat neighbours of different beliefs. It added that Nigeria’s diversity should be seen as a strength capable of fostering resilience rather than division.
“With both faiths engaged in solemn reflection at the same time, Nigerians are presented with a timely reminder that we share a common humanity and destiny,” the statement noted, urging citizens to work together toward a more peaceful and prosperous society.
The Director-General of IPCR, Dr. Joseph Ochogwu, who signed the statement, extended goodwill wishes to Christians and Muslims, expressing hope that the sacred period would inspire reconciliation, understanding and renewed commitment to national unity.
IPCR Sees Lent, Ramadan Overlap as Call for National Healing
Operative dies in accidental discharge in Niger
By: Zagazola Makama
An operative attached to a security unit in Niger State has died following an accidental discharge of a rifle at his duty post in Shiroro Local Government Area.
Sources said the incident occurred at about 10:00 p.m. on Feb. 16 when the operative, identified as Abubakar Iliya, 35, who was attached to a special hunters unit stationed at Galadiman-Kogo, reportedly fell from a sentry post.
During the fall, his cocked rifle disengaged and discharged, striking him in the abdomen and causing fatal injuries.
His remains were later evacuated by his unit for burial in accordance with customary rites.
Operative dies in accidental discharge in Niger
Boat mishap leaves passengers missing in Niger
By: Zagazola Makama
A canoe conveying seven passengers capsized while in transit between Jata and Kami Village in Shiroro Local Government Area of Niger State, leaving several persons missing.
Sources said the incident occurred at about 7:00 p.m. on Feb. 16 when the canoe, carrying six females and one male passenger, overturned during the journey.
The passengers were identified as Mustapher Yakubu; Sahura Yakubu and her child; Zarifa Yakubu; Mommy Yakubu; Lizatu Yakubu; Zaratu Yusuf; and Sumaiya Ibrahim, all from Jata/Bmagara via Kami Village.
Rescue teams, including police and local divers, were immediately mobilised to the scene. The boat driver and his conductor were rescued alive, while search efforts are ongoing to locate the remaining passengers.
Authorities said further updates would be provided as rescue operations continue.
Boat mishap leaves passengers missing in Niger
IPCR Sees Lent, Ramadan Overlap as Call for National Healing
Police neutralise two suspected kidnappers, recover rifle in Akwa Ibom
Tragedy in Plateau: Carbon monoxide exposure claims 37 lives at Wase mining site
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