It is impressive and unprecedented how Yobe State Government is steadily rebuilding the state from the rubbles of Boko Haram/ Islamic State of West African Province (ISWAP) terror and other related predicaments bedeviling the region.
Governor Mai Mala Buni is making concrete achievements since he came into office with a clear and strategic vision to address Yobe’s most urgent and long-standing challenges by prioritizing critical sectors ravaged by the conflicts such as education, healthcare, agriculture, infrastructure, and human capital development and electrification of rural communities.
It is pertinent to slice out of that expansive array a sizeable portion that could present a fascinating modicum to show that the commission is discharging its statutory mandate by demonstrating its profound commitment to rebuilding the state through strategic and impactful initiatives across 17 local government areas of Yobe State.
Buni often said, “Until you make your environment secure and friendly, education and healthcare accessible and affordable, and create sustainable sources of income, there is no magic wand for successful governance.” This philosophy became the foundation of a comprehensive recovery strategy for the state.
Fast forward to his two years of second term in office, Governor Buni tilts his attention to urban renewal, giving maximum concentration to the development of the state capital in addition to massive infrastructure upgrade taking place in all the 17 LGA’s.
This bold initiative is aimed at transforming Damaturu into a modern, livable, and economically vibrant city.
The interesting story of this initiative was signing a contract for the construction of flyover and underpass, the first of its kind in the state. These structures when completed would serve as functional solutions to the growing urban population and increased vehicular traffic.
They are designed to improve traffic flow, reduce congestion, enhance road safety, and prepare the capital for future expansion. More importantly, they symbolize Yobe’s rise from the ashes of conflict into a future of possibilities.
With the flyover project is the development of a city centre mall — a contemporary commercial hub that will attract investors, boost local trade, and create employment. The mall is designed to host retail shops, offices, entertainment spot, making it a one-stop centre for modern commerce.
We have connected over 400 communities to National Grid – Buni
The Buni administration has achieved a significant milestone by connecting over 400 communities across the three senatorial zones to the national grid.
This was disclosed by Governor Mai Mala Buni during the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Federal Government on rural electrification strategies. The MoU, signed in Abuja was aimed at advancing sustainable energy solutions for underserved and insurgency-affected communities.
Representing the Federal Government at the event were the Managing Director of the Rural Electrification Agency (REA), Abba Abubakar Aliyu, and the agency’s Secretary, Kashim Ibrahim.
Highlighting the achievements of his administration in rural electrification, Governor Buni stated, “We have extended 33kV and 11kV distribution lines to underserved and insurgency-affected communities.
“This includes the restoration of power in Gujba East and the historic first connection of Gulani Local Government Area to the national grid since its creation in 1991.”
The governor further revealed that a new feeder line has been constructed from the 330/132/33kV transmission facility to provide uninterrupted power supply to Yobe State University and its teaching hospital.
Additionally, over 100 transformers, ranging from 300kVA to 500kVA, have been installed across communities, health centers, schools, and densely populated urban areas.
Buni emphasized his administration’s commitment to rehabilitating and upgrading dysfunctional transformers and existing infrastructure to meet the growing demand caused by population growth and improved stability in the state.
Damaturu inner roads, by-passes witness increased activity amid urban renewal projects
Gradually, Buni administration is transforming Damaturu, the Yobe State capital, as the city is currently experiencing a notable increase in activity along its inner roads and by-passes as residents and motorists navigate alternative routes due to the ongoing construction of the iconic flyover project at the Damaturu old Roundabout.
The construction has necessitated the temporary closure of all roads leading to the Roundabout, redirecting traffic through inner roads and by-passes.
While this adjustment has caused temporary inconvenience, the authorities assure the public of the project’s long-term benefits, which are part of a broader urban renewal initiative to modernize and beautify Damaturu. As part of the urban renewal program, makeshift and roadside shops have been removed to create space for development, reflecting a commitment to enhancing the city’s infrastructure and visual appeal.
These efforts aim to elevate Damaturu’s status and improve the overall quality of life for its residents. Visitors to Damaturu will immediately notice the signs of transformation, with heavy machinery and construction crews actively reshaping the city’s landscape.
Also, significant projects include the massive construction of drainage systems along the Maiduguri-Gashua Road by-pass and the remodeling of the city’s four major Roundabouts.
This is a transformative period for Damaturu and residents have been urge to bear with the temporary inconvenience and support the urban renewal initiative, as it is for the greater good of our city.
With steady progress underway, Damaturu is poised to emerge as a modern, well-planned capital city, reflecting the vision and dedication of the state’s leadership.
