By Abdul Kareem
As Vice President Kashim Shettima prepares for an official working tour to Yobe State on Saturday, July 20th, he is poised to witness a state that has undergone significant progress and development under the leadership of Governor Mai Mala Buni.
Certainly, 1000 words can never fully capture the multitude of achievements accomplished in Yobe State over the past five years under the leadership of His Excellency Mai Mala Buni. Due to time constraints and the demands of the moment, one will briefly touch on the impressive milestones in this condensed account.
The great philosopher, Pluto, has said that “True governance is not about power, but about the ability to inspire positive change, uplift communities, and foster a better future for all.”
Over the past five years, Governor Buni has implemented a series of transformative initiatives across various sectors, propelling Yobe State towards a new era of growth and prosperity.
In this excerpt of a five-year journey, I will delve into the significant changes that have taken place in Yobe State under Governor Buni’s leadership. I will showcase key achievements and provide a vivid portrayal of the vibrant state that President Tinubu’s envoy will experience upon arrival in Damaturu, the state capital.
Governance and Infrastructure:
Since taking office in 2019, Governor Buni has demonstrated a strong commitment to good governance and infrastructure development. The state has witnessed a notable improvement in security, with many previously inaccessible communities now experiencing a return to normalcy. Governor Buni has overseen the reconstruction, resettlement, and rehabilitation of communities, showcasing a dedication to restoring peace and stability in the region.
Buni’s focus on infrastructure development is evident in the extensive road construction projects undertaken across the state. From rehabilitating existing roads to constructing new intercommunity roads, Governor Buni has prioritized enhancing connectivity and accessibility within Yobe State. Notable projects include the completion of the dual carriage Damaturu-Kalallawa way and the ongoing work on various township roads, highlighting the administration’s commitment to improving transportation networks for residents.
Education and Healthcare:
Education and healthcare have been key areas of focus for Governor Buni’s administration, with significant investments made to revitalize these sectors. Following the challenges faced by the education sector during the insurgency, Governor Buni declared a state of emergency on education, leading to the establishment of new schools, teacher training programs, and the integration of Tsangaya schools into the formal education system. The Governor’s efforts have resulted in increased school enrollment and a conducive learning environment for students at all levels.
In the healthcare sector, Governor Buni has implemented a comprehensive primary healthcare system, ensuring access to quality healthcare services at the ward, local government, and zonal levels. Through establishing primary healthcare centers and providing ambulances in remote areas, the state has made significant strides in healthcare delivery.
Yobe is today reputed for offering free dialysis for patients with kidney diseases with the Teaching hospital attending to about 50 patients in a week. While persons involved in accident within the state continued to receive free treatment so does all paediatric patients too.
The Governor’s commitment to universal health coverage is evident in initiatives such as the Yobe State Contributory Healthcare Management Agency, which has enrolled over 300,000 individuals in the healthcare scheme.
Agriculture and Economic Development:
Governor Buni has placed a strong emphasis on agricultural transformation and economic empowerment, recognizing agriculture as the mainstay of the state’s economy. Initiatives such as the Agricultural Summit and the Sector Strategic Plan seek to modernize farming practices, boost crop production, and enhance food security in Yobe State. The procurement and distribution of fertilizers, tractors, and other agricultural machinery have supported farmers in increasing their yields and incomes.
In line with efforts to promote industrialization and commerce, Governor Buni has revitalized key industries in the state, such as the Sahel Aluminum Company and Yobe Flour and Feed Mills Company. The construction of modern markets, truck transit parks, and shopping malls reflects the administration’s commitment to creating a conducive environment for business growth and economic development.
Partnerships with international organizations and the private sector have enabled the state to access funding for projects aimed at enhancing agricultural productivity and livestock development.
The State Vice President Shettima is set to Visit:
As VP prepares to visit Yobe State tomorrow, he will be greeted by a state that has undergone a remarkable transformation under the leadership of Governor Buni.
The Vice President’s expected arrival at the Yobe State’s new international cargo airport, the first of its kind in northern Nigeria, reinforces the assertion that Yobe State has evolved from a rural region to a modern community rapidly advancing on the path to modernity.
The rapid progress made in governance, infrastructure, education, healthcare, agriculture, and economic development underscores Yobe State’s commitment to growth and prosperity. President Tinubu can expect to witness firsthand the tangible results of Governor Buni’s vision and leadership, as well as the resilience and determination of the people of Yobe State.
Governor Buni’s tenure has been marked by a series of achievements that have positioned Yobe State as a model of development and progress in Nigeria. As Vice President Shettima embarks on his official working tour to the state, he will have the opportunity to witness the fruits of Governor Buni and his team’s labor and the bright future that lies ahead for Yobe State and its residents.
“In the past five years, Governor Mai Mala Buni has not only achieved modest milestones but has also exemplified the wisdom of Confucius, the renowned Chinese Politician, Philosopher, and Teacher. He has shown that in the realm of governance, excellence is not just a goal but a perpetual journey towards establishing a society where justice, prosperity, and harmony flourish. Additionally, he has demonstrated the truth in Socrates’ words that governance is not a privilege to be wielded but a solemn responsibility to be fulfilled with humility, transparency, and a dedication to serving the common welfare.”
The Humanitarian Times 