The Chairman of the Northern States Governors’ Forum and Governor of Gombe State, Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya, has described democracy as the most reliable pathway to sustainable development.
Governor Yahaya cited the remarkable transformation witnessed across Gombe State as evidence that visionary, accountable and people-centred leadership can deliver meaningful progress.
In a message marking the 2026 Democracy Day celebration, Governor Yahaya stated that the steady growth and development recorded in Gombe State validated the benefits of uninterrupted democratic governance and responsible leadership.
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According to him, significant achievements in infrastructure, healthcare, education, agriculture, environmental management and industrialisation had been made possible through deliberate policies, institutional stability and active citizen participation.
“Gombe State today stands as a compelling example of what can be achieved under democratic governance,” the Governor stated.
He highlighted several landmark projects executed by his administration, including the Network 11-100 Roads Initiative, urban renewal and environmental sustainability programmes, the revitalisation of schools and healthcare facilities, the Three Arms Zone, the Muhammadu Buhari Industrial Park, the Agro-Livestock Development Zone, and the DEVAGOM economic blueprint.
Governor Yahaya noted that the projects and policy interventions demonstrated how democracy could directly improve the lives of citizens through transparent leadership, inclusive governance and long-term economic planning.
“Democracy has created an enabling environment for growth, expanded access to public services and opened up new opportunities for our people,” he noted.
The Governor acknowledged that Nigeria’s democratic journey had not been without its challenges, but observed that the country’s 27 years of uninterrupted civilian rule remained a significant national achievement.
“Our ability as a nation to sustain democratic governance, manage political transitions peacefully and continue striving towards national development is worthy of recognition,” he revealed.
The NSGF Chairman congratulated President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, and all Nigerians on the occasion of Democracy Day.
He paid tribute to pro-democracy activists and institutions, particularly the judiciary, legislature, media and civil society organisations, for their sacrifices and steadfast commitment to sustaining democratic governance in Nigeria.
“As we commemorate Democracy Day 2026, I urge all citizens to remain united, peaceful and committed to the ideals of justice, accountability and good governance,” the Governor emphasised.
He also commended the media for promoting democratic values and holding public office holders accountable, while urging journalists and citizens alike to reject fake news, divisive rhetoric and misinformation capable of undermining national cohesion, especially as the country approaches the 2027 general elections.
“Despite the challenges confronting our nation, democracy remains the foundation for peace, participation, development and national progress,” he highlighted.
Governor Yahaya wished all Nigerians a peaceful, memorable and rewarding Democracy Day celebration.
