By The World Bank has commended Gombe State for its outstanding performance in implementing development projects, describing it as a model of results-driven governance in Nigeria.
The commendation was given by the World Bank Country Director for Nigeria, Matthew Verghis, during an official visit to the state.
Verghis praised the leadership of Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya, noting that his active involvement has contributed significantly to the success of World Bank-supported programmes.
“We have observed that projects are performing even better in Gombe compared to many other states. One key factor behind high performance is the active engagement of the governor,” he said.
He explained that recent reforms by the World Bank have shifted more responsibility for project implementation to state governments, improving accountability, performance, and sustainability.
According to him, states now access funding based on their readiness and ability to meet specific performance criteria, adding that Gombe has demonstrated that even less-resourced states can achieve strong results through commitment and effective leadership.
Verghis also outlined the Bank’s evolving development strategy in Nigeria, which focuses on results-based financing and leveraging private sector investment to enhance impact.
He further acknowledged the state’s progress in early childhood development, particularly in maternal health, child survival, nutrition, and education, describing the sector as a key priority requiring coordinated efforts.
Responding, Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya expressed appreciation to the World Bank for its continued support, describing the partnership as vital to the state’s development.
He noted that Gombe State currently benefits from several World Bank interventions across critical sectors, with additional projects in the pipeline.
“Gombe is among the least-resourced states in terms of federal allocation, but with the support of partners like the World Bank, we have been able to deliver impactful projects that directly improve the lives of our people,” he said.
The governor highlighted efforts to expand healthcare services across all 114 wards in the state, ensuring at least one functional primary healthcare centre per ward, with many areas now having two or more.
He reiterated his administration’s commitment to human capital development, particularly in healthcare and nutrition, aligning with the World Bank’s focus on early childhood development.
Yahaya assured the delegation of continued cooperation, transparency, and commitment to achieving sustainable development outcomes in the state.
