World Bank Hails Gombe as Benchmark for Impactful Governance

World Bank Hails Gombe as Benchmark for Impactful Governance

By Jamila Muhammad, Gombe

The World Bank has praised Gombe State for its exceptional performance in executing development projects, describing the state as a shining example of results-orientated governance in Nigeria.

This commendation came during an official visit to Gombe by the World Bank Country Director for Nigeria, Mr Matthew Verghis, who applauded the administration of Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya for demonstrating strong leadership and commitment in driving development initiatives.

Verghis noted that Gombe stands out among states benefiting from World Bank-supported programmes, with projects not only progressing steadily but also delivering impressive outcomes.

According to him, the state’s success is largely driven by the active involvement of its leadership, particularly the governor, whose hands-on approach has strengthened project delivery and accountability.

He explained that the World Bank has recently adopted reforms that place greater responsibility on state governments in implementing projects. This approach, he said, has enhanced transparency, improved performance, and ensured sustainability.

Under the current system, he added, access to funding is tied to a state’s readiness and ability to meet set performance benchmarks.

Despite limited resources, Verghis observed that Gombe has consistently delivered strong results, proving that effective leadership and commitment can overcome financial constraints.

He further highlighted the World Bank’s evolving development strategy in Nigeria, which now emphasises results-based financing and increased collaboration with the private sector to expand the impact of interventions.

The Country Director also commended Gombe’s efforts in early childhood development, particularly in areas such as maternal health, child survival, nutrition, and education, describing them as critical to long-term growth.

In his response, Governor Inuwa Yahaya expressed gratitude to the World Bank for its continued partnership, noting that the collaboration has significantly boosted development across key sectors in the state.

He revealed that Gombe is currently implementing several World Bank-backed projects, with additional interventions expected in the near future.

The governor pointed out that although Gombe receives relatively low federal allocations, strategic partnerships have enabled the state to deliver meaningful projects that directly improve the lives of its residents.

He also highlighted ongoing efforts to expand healthcare access, stating that all 114 wards in the state now have at least one functional primary healthcare center, and many areas are already benefiting from additional facilities.

Reaffirming his administration’s focus on human capital development, Yahaya stressed the importance of investing in healthcare and nutrition, particularly for children, in line with global development priorities.

He assured the World Bank of the state’s steadfast dedication to transparency, accountability, and sustainability in all projects.

According to the governor, every intervention undertaken by his administration is designed to enhance the well-being of citizens and ensure lasting development outcomes.

The visit further reinforced the strong partnership between Gombe State and the World Bank, with both sides expressing readiness to deepen collaboration for sustained growth.