The Gombe State Executive Council has approved a ₦21.2 billion contract for the construction of the Northern Bypass Road, as part of strategic efforts to ease urban traffic congestion and stimulate economic growth across the state.
The announcement was made by the Commissioner for Information, Culture, and Ethical Orientation, Mijinyawa Ardo Tilde, during a press briefing following the 48th SEC meeting, chaired by Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya at the Government House, Gombe.
According to the Commissioner for Works, Housing and Transport, Engr. Usman Maijama’a Kallamu, the first phase of the 8.5-kilometre road project will begin at Dukku Road near the grain silos, pass through the newly established Agro-Livestock Development Zone, and end at Kurba Road.
“The project is expected to ease congestion in the state capital, enhance road safety, and boost commercial activities by improving access to key economic corridors,” Kallamu said.
He further disclosed that plans are underway for the construction of a Southern Bypass to link Liji with Kalshingi and connect to the Gombe–Yola Road, further strengthening internal connectivity within the state.
“These roads are strategic to reducing travel time, preventing accidents, and promoting socio-economic integration,” he added.
In a related development, the Council also approved the procurement of 10,000 metric tons (200,000 bags) of NPK 20:10:10 fertiliser valued at ₦8.8 billion ahead of the 2025 wet season farming.
Commissioner for Agriculture, Animal Husbandry and Cooperatives, Dr. Barnabas Musa Malle, said the move reflects the administration’s commitment to food security and agricultural growth.
“This is the largest fertiliser procurement ever by the state, and it highlights the Governor’s proactive measures to support farmers and enhance crop production,” Malle said.
He added that Governor Inuwa Yahaya will officially flag off the distribution and subsidised sale of the fertiliser on June 26 to ensure timely access for farmers.
Meanwhile, the Council received an update on the ongoing revitalisation of Primary Healthcare Centres (PHCs) across all 114 political wards in the state.
Commissioner for Health, Dr. Habu Dahiru, revealed that 82 PHCs are currently undergoing upgrades valued at over ₦3 billion. The upgrades include expansion of wards and labour rooms, installation of solar lighting systems and motorised boreholes, and construction of perimeter fencing, gatehouses, and staff quarters.
“These upgrades are geared toward ensuring that every ward has at least two functional health facilities, thereby improving access to quality healthcare services at the grassroots,” Dahiru stated.
The projects, as learnt by WorldClass247News, form part of governor Inuwa Yahaya’s broader agenda to modernise infrastructure, enhance food production, and strengthen the state’s healthcare delivery system.