By A. A. Mshelia
As the clock strikes the 10th day of the 10th month, 2025, Yobe State looks back on ten remarkable months of visible transformation under the leadership of Governor Mai Mala Buni, CON. In a period marked by national economic challenges, Yobe has become a reference point for consistency, planning, and impactful governance. From roads to schools, from empowerment to healthcare, the state’s pace of progress has been both deliberate and inspiring.
Below are ten defining achievements among several others that have shaped the Yobe story between January and October 2025 — ten months, ten triumphs.
1. $2.5 Million Community Revolving Fund Empowerment Scheme
In February 2025, Governor Buni launched the second phase of the Non-Interest Community Revolving Fund, valued at $2.5 million. The initiative empowered over 4,500 small-scale entrepreneurs and women cooperatives across Damaturu, Potiskum, Nguru, Geidam, and Gashua. The interest-free loans have enabled business expansion, job creation, and strengthened rural economies, positioning Yobe as one of Nigeria’s models in grassroots financial inclusion.
2. Food Security and Agricultural Expansion Drive
The administration distributed 35,000 bags of fertilizer, 5,000 water pumps, and 1,200 motorized sprayers to farmers across Fika, Jakusko, Gulani, and Tarmuwa. Three new grain storage silos were also established in Buni Yadi, Bade, and Fune, enhancing the state’s food preservation and supply chain capacity. This agricultural boost aligns with Buni’s Food Sufficiency Drive, ensuring Yobe remains resilient against national food inflation pressures.
3. Damaturu–Buni Gari Dual Carriageway and Urban Renewal
The Damaturu–Buni Gari dualization project, completed mid-year, has transformed access between the state capital and southern Yobe. It stands as one of the most strategic transport links in the region. Complementing it, the Damaturu Urban Renewal Project delivered new streetlights, drainage systems, pedestrian walkways, and road markings, giving the capital a modern city outlook and improving both safety and night-time commerce.
4. Potiskum–Fika–Ngalda Road Rehabilitation
The rehabilitation of the Potiskum–Fika–Ngalda Road, a critical commercial route, is nearing completion. The project enhances trade connectivity between southern and central Yobe and has already reduced travel time by over 40 percent. Local businesses along the route report increased movement of goods and services, reaffirming the Governor’s focus on economic-driven infrastructure.
5. Solar-Powered Borehole Conversions Across 170 Communities
In a major step toward sustainable water access, the government converted 170 motorized boreholes into solar-powered systems across Gujba, Yunusari, Karasuwa, and Nangere. Additionally, new boreholes were drilled in Bade, Jakusko, and Fune, giving over 250 rural communities consistent access to clean water. This project marks one of the largest renewable-energy-based rural water initiatives in Northern Nigeria.
6. Establishment of Mai Mala Buni College of Integrated Science, Damaturu
In April 2025, the Governor approved the establishment of the Mai Mala Buni College of Integrated Science in Damaturu, focusing on STEM education and research. The institution houses 25 classrooms, six modern laboratories, and an ICT hub, all powered by solar energy. It has quickly become a model for science-based learning and technological innovation in the Northeast.
7. Upgrade of Buni Yadi General Hospital to Specialist Medical Centre
Healthcare infrastructure reached a new milestone with the upgrade of the General Hospital, Buni Yadi, to a Specialist Medical Centre. The facility now features a fully equipped maternity wing, surgical unit, emergency ward, and modern diagnostic laboratory. In addition, mobile medical outreach teams now serve Machina, Yusufari, and Gulani, extending healthcare to underserved communities.
8. Youth and Vocational Development in Potiskum
To combat youth unemployment, the Governor commissioned the Yobe Vocational and Skills Acquisition Centre in Potiskum. The centre offers technical, digital, and entrepreneurial training in trades such as welding, tailoring, ICT, and solar technology. Within months, over 1,000 youths have benefited, marking a significant investment in human capital development.
9. Traditional Institution Reforms and Emirate Stability
In August 2025, Governor Buni appointed Ismaila Ahmed Gadaka as the new Emir of Gudi in Fika Emirate, ensuring continuity and strengthening traditional governance. The Governor’s inclusive approach has also deepened collaboration with traditional rulers across Bade, Damaturu, and Machina, fostering community peace and cooperation in security and development programs.
10. ALGON Vote of Confidence and Strengthened Local Governance
In September 2025, the Association of Local Governments of Nigeria (ALGON), Yobe Chapter, unanimously passed a vote of confidence on Governor Buni. The endorsement was a direct reflection of his inclusive governance model, consistent support for local councils, and transparent fiscal policies that have improved grassroots service delivery across all 17 LGAs.
From empowerment to education, roads to healthcare, and security to governance, Governor Mai Mala Buni has demonstrated uncommon focus and integrity in service. His deliberate, steady pace has built visible foundations for long-term prosperity.
On this 10:10:2025, Yobe celebrates progress condensed into ten transformative months — a period that stands as proof that purposeful leadership can change lives, rebuild hope, and set a state firmly on the path of greatness.
