Crackdown on Site Extortion: GOSUPDA Orders Residents to Pay Only at Office

By Auwal Ahmad, Gombe

The Gombe State Urban Planning and Development Authority (GOSUPDA) has issued a stern warning to residents against making any form of payment at construction sites, directing that all official fees must be paid strictly at the agency’s office.

Executive Chairman of GOSUPDA, Bappayo Samanja, gave the directive while addressing journalists about the agency’s ongoing activities, stressing that both residents and staff found engaging in illegal on-site transactions would face legal consequences.

He revealed that the authority had recently apprehended individuals posing as GOSUPDA officials, who had been extorting money from unsuspecting developers at building sites.

“We have arrested impersonators moving around construction areas to collect money unlawfully. Let it be clear that no payments should be made outside our office,” he said.

Samanja also warned against acts that undermine public infrastructure, including the destruction of streetlights, culverts, and other government installations, whether intentional or accidental. He emphasised that violators would be sanctioned in line with existing laws.

The chairman further cautioned residents against erecting structures on waterways or interfering with public property, noting that such actions could disrupt urban planning efforts and pose environmental risks.

Highlighting ongoing reforms, Samanja disclosed that the agency was set to commence a comprehensive house numbering and street naming exercise across the Gombe metropolis. According to him, the initiative is designed to improve navigation, strengthen security, and enhance emergency response efficiency.

He called on residents to cooperate fully with the government to ensure the smooth implementation of the project.

In addition, Samanja urged eligible residents, particularly those aged 18 and above, to take advantage of the remaining window for Permanent Voter Card (PVC) registration by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

“With just a few days left before the registration closes, we encourage all eligible citizens to either register or update their details without delay,” he added.

The GOSUPDA boss reiterated the agency’s commitment to enforcing urban planning regulations while promoting orderly development across the state.

Gov. Inuwa Sets Up Power Regulator, Tasks Team on Reliable Electricity Supply in Gombe

By Jamila Muhammad

The Governor of Gombe State, Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya, has approved the appointment of a chairman and commissioners for the newly created Gombe State Electricity Regulatory Commission in a move aimed at strengthening electricity governance and attracting investment into the sector.

The appointments, which take effect from 21 January 2026, were earlier submitted to the Gombe State House of Assembly and confirmed in line with the law establishing the commission.

The Secretary to the State Government, Ibrahim Abubakar Njodi, said the development reflects the administration’s push to build a transparent and investor-friendly electricity market.

“The constitution of the leadership team for GOSERC is in furtherance of the governor’s commitment to building a robust, transparent and investor-friendly electricity market in Gombe State,” Mr Njodi said.

He added that the step aligns with emerging opportunities created by the decentralisation of Nigeria’s power sector.

According to the government, Dr Usman Abba Arabi was appointed chairman of the commission, while Engr. Sule Usman will oversee technical regulation. Abubakar Sa’ad is to handle economic regulation; Engr Ahmed Ibrahim Pindiga will supervise rural electrification; Lydia Ali will manage finance and administration, while Talatu Abubakar takes charge of legal and licensing.

Mr Yahaya said the choice of the appointees was based on their experience and professional competence, expressing confidence in their ability to reposition the state’s power sector.

“With the calibre of professionals appointed, the commission will provide the regulatory backbone required to improve service delivery, enforce standards, protect consumers and stimulate investment in power infrastructure,” the governor said.

He added that the commission is expected to play a central role in expanding electricity access, particularly in underserved communities, and supporting industrial growth in the state.

The creation of GOSERC comes amid ongoing reforms in Nigeria’s electricity sector, which allow states to take a more active role in power generation, distribution and regulation.

Officials say the new commission will be critical in driving Gombe’s ambition to achieve a more reliable and sustainable electricity supply while boosting economic activities across the state.

Northern Governors Celebrate Dangote at 69, Applaud His Impact on Africa’s Economy

By Jamila Muhammed

Governors from Northern Nigeria have joined voices to celebrate Africa’s foremost industrialist, Aliko Dangote, on his 69th birthday, praising his remarkable contributions to business, economic growth and humanitarian development across the continent.

The tribute was led by the Chairman of the Northern States Governors’ Forum and Governor of Gombe State, Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya, who described Dangote as a symbol of African excellence and visionary leadership.

In a goodwill message issued on behalf of the 19 Northern governors, Yahaya said Dangote’s rise from a modest entrepreneur to a globally recognised industrial giant reflected determination, innovation, and an unwavering belief in Africa’s potential.

He noted that the Dangote Group, a business magnate, has transformed the industrial landscape by building world-class enterprises that continue to boost economic growth, expand local capacity, and create employment opportunities for thousands of Nigerians.

The forum particularly commended Dangote’s strategic investments in key sectors, such as cement production, petrochemicals, and oil refining, noting that these ventures have strengthened Africa’s industrial base and reduced reliance on imports.

Yahaya emphasised the importance of the Dangote Refinery and the expansion of cement factories across the continent, characterising them as transformative initiatives that have enhanced Africa’s economic competitiveness.

According to him, Dangote’s confidence in Nigeria’s economy and his long-term investment approach serve as a model for private sector leadership and national development.

Beyond business, the governors also recognised his philanthropic footprint through the Aliko Dangote Foundation, which has supported millions of people through interventions in healthcare, education, poverty alleviation and humanitarian services.

The northern governors expressed deep appreciation for Dangote’s role in promoting youth empowerment, infrastructure development and Africa’s push for self-reliance in critical industries.

They prayed for continued strength, wisdom and good health for the business leader, urging him to sustain his contributions to Nigeria, Africa, and humanity at large.