Governor Mai Mala Buni of Yobe State presented a detailed summary of his administration’s achievements during the 2024 End-of-Year Press Briefing held in Damaturu.
Addressing government officials, press members, and stakeholders, he highlighted progress made in various sectors, including healthcare, education, agriculture, infrastructure, and security.
Economic Empowerment and Humanitarian Support
The governor announced significant humanitarian interventions. “Through the Multi-Purpose Cash Assistance programme, we supported 52,997 households and over 200,000 individuals with N3.9 billion in cash assistance, alongside food and non-food items for over 450,000 households,” he said.
Efforts in wealth creation included distributing modern sewing machines, disability tricycles, and farming equipment, alongside financial grants to thousands of small businesses and unemployed youths.
Healthcare Milestones
Governor Buni praised the state’s healthcare improvements, including winning $500,000 in a North-East primary healthcare leadership challenge. Key achievements include recruiting 311 healthcare workers, completing various hospital upgrades, and expanding the state’s contributory healthcare scheme, which now serves over 275,000 enrollees.
“We also ensured the 100% payment of hazard allowances and implemented adjusted salary scales for healthcare workers,” he added, emphasizing the administration’s commitment to healthcare delivery.
Agricultural Investments
In agriculture, the state launched its largest empowerment programme, investing N15.3 billion in farm inputs for over 5,000 farmers. Additionally, N1.7 billion was allocated to procure grains for the state’s strategic reserve.
Infrastructure and Water Supply
Highlighting infrastructure, the governor noted extensive road construction and rehabilitation projects, including hundreds of kilometers of new roads across Yobe State. On water supply, he said, “We converted 170 motorized boreholes to solar systems and undertook drilling and rehabilitation projects to ensure steady water access for our people.”
Education Enhancements
Governor Buni celebrated major strides in education, such as renovating schools, training over 2,500 teachers, and expanding junior secondary schools. He also highlighted tuition subsidies, feeding programmes, and infrastructure upgrades at tertiary institutions.
Environmental and Security Efforts
To combat environmental challenges, the government distributed solar cooking stoves, raised seedlings for reforestation, and implemented erosion control projects. On security, Governor Buni commended the Nigerian army, police, and local vigilante groups for their efforts, pledging continued support to ensure safety.
Commitment to Progress
The governor assured citizens of continued development efforts in 2025, saying, “We will not relent in making life more meaningful for our people and moving Yobe State forward, Insha Allah.”
The briefing concluded with the governor’s appreciation of the public and media for their contributions to the state’s progress.
