Gombe Governor Proposes Creation of 13 New Local Council Development Areas

Gombe State Governor, Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya, has taken what he described as a historic step towards strengthening grassroots governance with the submission of a bill to the State House of Assembly seeking the establishment of 13 new Local Council Development Areas (LCDAs).

In a statement issued on Tuesday by the Director-General of Press Affairs at the Gombe Government House, Ismaila Misilli, the governor said the move reflects his deep commitment to bringing governance closer to the people, improving service delivery, and promoting inclusive and participatory democracy across the state.

The proposed LCDAs, which will serve as administrative sub-divisions of existing Local Government Areas, are expected to address pressing needs in security, education, healthcare, infrastructure, and social services, particularly in rural and underserved communities. They will also work closely with traditional institutions and community leaders to maintain peace, promote development, and tackle emerging security challenges in line with the provisions of the Gombe State Chieftaincy Law (as amended).

According to the bill, the new LCDAs will be Akko North with headquarters in Amada, Akko West with headquarters in Pindiga, Balanga South with headquarters in Bambam, Billiri West with headquarters in Tal, Dukku North with headquarters in Malala, Funakaye South with headquarters in Tongo, Gombe South with headquarters in Bolari, Kaltungo East with headquarters in Wange, Kwami West with headquarters in Bojude, Nafada West with headquarters in Birin Fulani, Pero-Chonge with headquarters in Filiya, Yamaltu East with headquarters in Hinna, and Yamaltu West with headquarters in Zambuk.

To ensure smooth implementation, the bill makes provisions for the establishment of Interim Management Committees to oversee operations in each LCDA until substantive local elections are conducted. The reform will be rolled out in phases, with clear operational frameworks, staffing structures, and budgetary allocations to guarantee efficiency from the onset.

Governor Yahaya called on the Gombe State House of Assembly to give the bill expeditious and favourable consideration. He also urged citizens to embrace and support the initiative, describing it as a visionary reform that strengthens Gombe State’s position as a leader in inclusive governance and grassroots-driven development in Nigeria.