Governor Inuwa Yahaya Signs N617.95bn 2026 Budget into Law, Says Gombe Will Continue to Lead with Action

...Gombe Takes the Lead, Appropriates N12bn for Northern Security Fund

Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya, CON, has signed the 2026 Appropriation Bill of Gombe State into law, giving the force of law for the implementation of the N617.95 billion “Budget of Consolidation.”

The signing ceremony, which took place at the Council Chamber of the Government House, Gombe, followed the formal presentation of the Appropriation Bill as passed by members of the Gombe State House of Assembly, led by the Speaker, Hon. Abubakar Mohammed Luggerewo.

The 2026 budget makes provision for N189 billion as recurrent expenditure, accounting for 21.6 per cent, while N428.5 billion, representing 69.4 per cent, is devoted to capital projects, further reinforcing the administration’s focus on infrastructure, service delivery and long-term growth.

Governor Inuwa Yahaya had initially presented a N535.69 billion budget proposal to the House. After a legislative review, the Assembly approved an upward adjustment of over N82 billion, bringing the total budget size to N617.95 billion.

A key feature of the budget is the allocation of N12 billion for regional security fund, translating to a N1 billion monthly contribution, in line with resolutions of the Northern States Governors’ Forum. The move places Gombe State at the forefront of collective efforts by northern states to confront insecurity through practical and sustained funding.

Speaking at the signing ceremony, Governor Inuwa Yahaya reiterated his administration’s commitment to the safety of lives and property, the completion of ongoing legacy projects, and the delivery of people-focused development across both urban and rural communities.

He explained that the 2026 budget prioritises critical sectors such as health, education, social investment, environmental protection, mineral resources development, and includes a special allocation for the Gombe State Commission for Persons with Disabilities (GSCPWD).

“This administration remains fully committed to responding to the needs and aspirations of our people with a budget that is realistic, responsible and centred on the citizen,” the Governor said.

Reflecting on his administration’s record, Governor Inuwa Yahaya noted that no sector of the state’s economy has been neglected since he assumed office.

“In the history of Gombe State, no government has touched the lives of the people across so many sectors like this one. From health and education to infrastructure and social support, the impact is visible,” he stated.

He thanked the House of Assembly for what he described as a thoughtful and people-oriented review of the budget, assuring that the government would maintain the fiscal discipline it is known for.

According to him, budget implementation under his leadership has consistently exceeded 70 per cent.

The Governor also commended the lawmakers for their unity and seriousness during the budget process, describing their full attendance at the presentation of the estimates as a strong sign of mutual respect and cooperation between the executive and legislative arms of government.

Governor Inuwa Yahaya expressed gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the Federal Government for their continued support to Gombe State through various development programmes, while appealing for even more interventions in the year ahead.

“We started with work. We are still working. And by the grace of God, we will end with more work,” he said.

Earlier, Speaker Abubakar Luggerewo, said the lawmakers were at the Government House to formally present the 2026 Appropriation Bill for the Governor’s assent.

He disclosed that the House received the budget proposal on 13 November 2025, subjected it to detailed scrutiny, and held an extended session of the Appropriation Committee in Calabar, Cross River State, to enrich the document with additional inputs, leading to modest upward adjustments.

The Speaker praised Governor Inuwa Yahaya for the numerous development projects across the state, particularly in the health, education and other key sectors.

He recalled that a recent health summit organized by the state government drew experts from across the world, most of whom acknowledged Gombe State’s steady progress in healthcare delivery.

Hon. Luggerewo said the Assembly’s adjustments to the budget were made in good faith and in the best interest of the people.

He also appreciated the Governor for ensuring healthy working relationship among the arms of government and for providing the legislature with vehicles and other logistics that have improved their efficiency.

Suspected Terrorists Attack Gebbe Community in Kebbi, Residents Feared Dead and Injured

Gebbe community in Shanga Local Government Area, Kebbi State, came under a sudden and deadly attack by suspected terrorists, leaving multiple residents dead and many injured. Eyewitnesses reported indiscriminate gunfire, forcing villagers to flee to surrounding areas. The police confirmed the incident and deployed reinforcements to prevent further casualties. Residents have called on government and security agencies for urgent intervention, describing the assault as unprecedented for the area.

Tinubu Sparks Outrage Wearing ₦400 Million Patek Philippe Watch at Lagos Eyo Festival Amid Economic Hardship

President Bola Tinubu stirred controversy after attending the Lagos Eyo Festival wearing a rose-gold Patek Philippe Nautilus wristwatch worth over ₦400 million ($271,000). The display of luxury has drawn public criticism, given Nigeria’s worsening economic situation, rising inflation, fuel subsidy removals, and widespread insecurity. The incident highlights growing concerns about the optics of presidential opulence during national hardship, as social media debates intensify over the appropriateness of such extravagance.

Families of Abducted Kwara Construction Workers Beg Gov AbdulRazaq as Kidnappers Demand ₦500Million, Insist on Government Negotiation

Families of construction workers abducted by suspected terrorists in Kwara State have appealed to Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq for urgent intervention as the kidnappers demand a ₦500 million ransom and insist on negotiating only with the state government. The workers were seized in broad daylight while working on the Sabaja/Owa-Onire Road project. Relatives described the abduction as devastating, warning that wives, children and elderly parents are facing hunger, trauma and uncertainty. They called on the government and security agencies to intensify rescue efforts, establish direct communication with families, provide welfare and counselling support, and strengthen security along construction corridors and rural roads to prevent further attacks.

EXCLUSIVE VIDEO: Over 30 Women, Children Displaced by Bandits Forced to Share Single Room at Unofficial Zamfara IDP Camp

More than 30 women and children displaced by bandit attacks are crammed into a single room at an unofficial IDP camp in Gusau, Zamfara State. Videos shared by lawyer Mubashir Umar reveal horrific living conditions, with victims recounting abductions, killings, rape, hunger and prolonged captivity despite ransom payments. Umar blamed the worsening humanitarian crisis on the Zamfara State government’s failure to establish official IDP camps across the state’s 14 local government areas, leaving displaced persons to seek shelter in schools, unfinished buildings, markets and private homes amid escalating insecurity in Nigeria’s North-West.

Kwara Governor Abdulrahman Denies Government Role in Attack on Women Protesters, Orders Arrest of Hoodlums

Kwara State Governor Abdulrazaq Abdulrahman has denied any involvement of his administration in the weekend attack on women protesting near the under-construction Government House gate. The governor condemned the violence, reaffirmed the right to peaceful protest, and ordered security agencies to apprehend those responsible. The protesters, who were demanding urgent action on worsening insecurity and the kidnapping of family members in Oke-Ode, were reportedly assaulted by hoodlums while police personnel allegedly failed to intervene. Abdulrahman emphasized ongoing security efforts, including the deployment of armed forest guards to tackle kidnappers and terrorists.

When Will President Tinubu Arrest Abubakar Gumi? Bayo Oluwasanmi Accuses Cleric of Acting as Terrorists’ Liaison Officer in Nigeria

In a strongly worded opinion, Bayo Oluwasanmi questions why President Bola Tinubu has not ordered the arrest of Islamic cleric Abubakar Gumi, whom he accuses of openly supporting and defending Boko Haram and Fulani terrorist groups. The article alleges that Gumi acts as a liaison between terrorists and the Nigerian government, facilitating negotiations, ransom dealings, and intelligence sharing, while peaceful activists face harassment and detention. Oluwasanmi argues that the government’s failure to act has compromised national security and emboldened terrorism, demanding accountability and decisive action from the Tinubu administration.

Sheikh Gumi Slams Nigerians Backing U.S. Sokoto Airstrikes, Calls Supporters ‘Stupid’, Says Trump’s Hands Are ‘Bloodstained’

Islamic cleric Sheikh Ahmed Gumi has criticised Nigerians who support the recent U.S. airstrikes on alleged terrorist camps in Sokoto State, describing them as “stupid” and misguided. Gumi faulted the Nigerian government for permitting foreign military involvement, warned of threats to national sovereignty, and accused former U.S. President Donald Trump of having “bloodstained hands.” He urged Nigeria to demand the withdrawal of U.S. forces, cautioning that American intervention could worsen insecurity and deepen religious divisions.

Gunmen Kidnap Six Passengers, Including Driver, In Daring Attack Along Nsukka–Adani Road In Enugu State

Gunmen have abducted six passengers, including the driver of an Enugu State Transport Company (ENTRACO) bus, during an early-morning attack along the Nsukka–Adani Road in Uzo-Uwani Local Government Area of Enugu State. The incident occurred on December 26, 2025, when the assailants intercepted the bus near the Adani community, a route notorious for criminal activity. While three passengers escaped, the remaining victims were forced into the bush by the attackers. Residents have renewed calls for stronger and consistent security presence on the road amid rising kidnapping cases in the state.

Gunmen Ambush Police Patrol in Enugu, Kill Two Inspectors, Burn Vehicle and Steal AK-47 Rifles

Gunmen have ambushed a police patrol team in Enugu metropolis, killing two inspectors and setting their patrol vehicle ablaze in a late-night attack that has raised fresh security concerns in the state. The officers, attached to the Distress Response Squad of the Enugu State Police Command, were shot at close range during a routine patrol along Zik Avenue, Uwani area. The attackers also made away with three AK-47 rifles and ammunition. Police authorities have launched a manhunt, deploying tactical units across Enugu to track down the perpetrators and recover the stolen weapons.

Five Fulani Youths Shot in Plateau Community as MACBAN Condemns Attack, Demands Urgent Security Action

The Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN) has condemned the shooting of five Fulani youths by suspected militias in Jos South Local Government Area of Plateau State. The victims were reportedly attacked without provocation while returning from Bukuru Cattle Market on December 27, 2025, and sustained serious gunshot injuries. MACBAN described the incident as a senseless assault on innocent civilians and urged security agencies to swiftly investigate, arrest the perpetrators, and prevent further attacks. The association warned that recurring violence against Fulani travellers could escalate ethnic tensions and fuel reprisal attacks if decisive action is not taken.

DSS Arrests Gang Leader, Others Behind 2023 Abduction and Murder of Neurologist Prof. Ephraim in Cross River State

Operatives of the Department of State Services (DSS) have arrested key suspects linked to the 2023 abduction and murder of renowned neurologist, Professor Ekanem Philip Ephraim, in Cross River State. According to a report by security analyst Zagazola Makama, the prime suspect, Patrick Essien Etim, was arrested alongside accomplices while allegedly planning another kidnapping. The suspects reportedly confessed to abducting and killing the professor after collecting multiple ransom payments from her family. Professor Ephraim was kidnapped from her private clinic in Calabar by gunmen posing as patients, an incident that sparked widespread protests and an indefinite strike by the Nigeria Medical Association in the state. The DSS said the arrests mark a major breakthrough in efforts to dismantle kidnapping syndicates and restore public safety.

Sowore Condemns Attack on Women, Children Protesting Insecurity in Kwara, Blasts Governor Abdulrazaq, Police Over Violence at Government House

Former presidential candidate and human rights activist Omoyele Sowore has condemned the violent attack on women and children who were peacefully protesting worsening insecurity and mass kidnappings in parts of Kwara State. The protesters were assaulted by suspected hired thugs while demonstrating in front of the Kwara State Government House in Ilorin. Sowore expressed outrage that officers of the Nigeria Police Force allegedly stood by without intervening as the protesters were beaten and humiliated. He accused Governor Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq of intolerance and high-handedness, insisting that permitting or tolerating such actions against citizens exercising their constitutional right to protest is unacceptable in a democracy. Sowore also called for the immediate identification and punishment of police officers who failed in their duty, as well as the arrest and prosecution of those who carried out the attack.

Gunmen Attack Odo-Ere Community in Kogi, Kidnap Four Residents Amid Rising Insecurity

Terrorists stormed Odo-Ere community in Yagba West LGA, Kogi State, abducting at least four residents, including Engr. Shina Ajere, Mr. Kehinde Afolabi, Damilola Ogun, and a woman known as Iya Lara. Eyewitnesses said attackers moved house-to-house, firing sporadically. The total number of abducted victims remains uncertain, heightening fears of more missing residents. Community members have called on Kogi State authorities and security agencies to intensify efforts to rescue the victims. The incident adds to a series of recent attacks in rural Kogi communities, highlighting the worsening insecurity in the region.

BREAKING: On Wednesday, 24 Dec 2025, a violent clash erupted between two notorious armed group leaders in the Batsari axis: Namurjiya, younger brother of the late Sani Dangote and Lamo, deep inside forested areas bordering Katsina and Zamfara states.

The fighting reportedly stemmed from a killing carried out by Namurjiya two weeks ago. He allegedly murdered Abdulrahman, Lamo’s younger brother, at Shingi Tsohuwa in Ruma ward of Batsari LGA, Katsina State. Namurjiya had also been accused of repeatedly rustling cattle belonging to Fulani communities who had earlier accepted local peace agreements in Batsari and Jibia LGAs of Katsina State.

Residents say the confrontation began after Isha (night) prayers and lasted for hours, with heavy gunfire spreading fear across nearby villages. Casualties included civilians, among them women and children. Lamo’s faction reportedly seized weapons and motorcycles, while Namurjiya fled amid conflicting reports some claim he was killed, others say he escaped wounded. Inter-factional clashes among armed groups remain frequent in the region, echoing past deadly feuds such as the Gwaska Danƙarami–Sani Dangote conflict.

With repeated breakdowns of local peace accords, rival armed leaders settling scores in forests, and civilians paying the heaviest price, what realistic options remain for ending the cycle of retaliation in northwest Nigeria — tougher military action, renewed dialogue, or a completely different security approach?

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‎Mr Eazi about to put $2 million into building a massive event centre in Ghana
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‎During his appearance at the Detty Rave concert, Mr Eazi reveals Ghana needs proper venues for events.
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‎"I want to tell Ghana Tourism...
‎We need proper venues for events in Ghana.
‎I’m ready to invest two million dollars to make it happen.
‎I plan to construct a 3,000-capacity.
‎I’ll put up the necessary infrastructure and security" - Mr Eazi to Ghana's Tourism Authorities
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‎If they say yes, Ghana may have the biggest venue for Detty December annually.
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#1official

Kaduna Village Head’s Wife and Two-Year-Old Daughter Rescued from Kidnappers, Two Others Still Missing

The wife of a village head in Amantu, Sanga LGA, Kaduna State, along with her two-year-old daughter, has been rescued following a kidnapping on Sunday evening. Security agencies and local communities collaborated in the successful operation, reuniting the victims with their family early Monday morning. Meanwhile, two other individuals abducted in Fadan Karshi, Gwantu Chiefdom, remain missing as authorities intensify search efforts. The incident highlights ongoing insecurity challenges in Kaduna State and the critical role of community involvement in rescue operations.

Kwara Women Protesting Insecurity Attacked by Thugs at Government House as Police Stand By

A peaceful protest by women in Oke-Ode, Ifelodun LGA, Kwara State, demanding action against kidnappings and insecurity, was violently disrupted by thugs allegedly linked to Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq’s administration. The assailants wielded canes and flogged protesters in front of the Government House while police reportedly failed to intervene. Victims, including elderly women, recounted ongoing kidnappings of family members and accused state authorities of inaction. This incident follows similar attacks on peaceful protesters in Ilorin earlier in 2025, highlighting growing public concern over security failures. @

Offa, Kwara: Suspected US Airstrike Hits Hotel, Couple and Child Injured, Residents Panic

Panic gripped Offa, Kwara State, after a suspected US airstrike struck Solidworth Hotel in Lamodi on December 26, 2025. A family source confirmed structural damage to the hotel and three other buildings, with at least five people, including a couple and their child, injured. Security operatives quickly secured the site. Residents reported loud explosions and undetonated explosives, intensifying fear. The incident follows US strikes on ISIS targets in northwest Nigeria, confirmed as a joint operation by US and Nigerian authorities.

Trump Says U.S. Delayed Nigeria Airstr+kes to Deliver ‘Christmas Present’ to ISIS U.S.

President Donald Trump has disclosed that American airstr+kes against suspected Islamic State (IS) militants in northwest Nigeria were intentionally delayed so they could be carried out around Christmas.

Trump announced late Thursday that the United States had launched a “powerful and d+adly str+ke” against IS fighters. In an interview with Politico, he said the decision on timing was his. “They were going to do it earlier,” Trump said. “And I said, ‘Nope, let’s give a Christmas present.’”

The Nigerian government confirmed it cooperated with the United States on the operation through intelligence sharing and strategic coordination. Government spokesperson Mohammed Idris said the strikes were launched shortly after midnight from the Gulf of Guinea and involved “16 GPS-guided precision” missiles and MQ-9 Reaper drones.

The airstr+kes, which targeted an alleged IS camp in Sokoto State, were felt by nearby communities. In Jabo village, residents said the explosions shook homes and lit up the sky. Sanusi Madabo, a 40-year-old farmer, said he initially thought a plane had cr@shed.

“The light b¥rned bright for hours,” Madabo said. “It was almost like daytime.” Trump said the militants targeted were “targeting and viciously k+lling, primarily, innocent Christians.”

However, residents and security analysts have noted that Nigeria’s prolonged security crisis affects both Christians and Muslims across the country. The full impact of the str+kes, including casualties and d+mage, has yet to be independently confirmed.