By Citizenship Daily
The Gombe State Governor, Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya, CON, has been conferred with an Award of Excellence by the Network of Civil Society Organizations, (GONET), in recognition of his visionary leadership, inclusive governance and outstanding contributions to the socio-economic and infrastructural development of the state.
Ismaila Uba Misilli, the Director General in charge of media and publicity to the Gombe State governor made this known in a statement on Thursday.
Speaking at the award presentation, GONET Chairman, Ibrahim Yusuf, lauded Governor Inuwa Yahaya’s commitment to inclusive governance, particularly in budget formulation and key economic policies.
“We are delighted to inform you that you have been identified as our Best Performing Governor/Leader, and one of the
distinguished personalities whose contributions to the development of Gombe State and Nigeria at
large have been outstanding”.
He noted the administration’s massive investment in infrastructure, healthcare, education, water, and human capital development as key drivers of progress of Gombe State.
“As the Executive Governor of Gombe State, you have demonstrated a profound understanding of our people, and your policies have prioritized fairness, equity, and the well- being of all citizens.
“Under your leadership, Gombe State has seen remarkable strides in inclusive
governance, where the welfare of every individual, regardless of their background, is given utmost priority.
“Furthermore, your administration has maintained a sense of continuity in programmes and projects
that have propelled the state toward significant development, while also ensuring that long-term goals are pursued with consistency”.
Ibrahim Yusuf emphasized the vital role of civil society organizations (CSOs) in shaping policies, advocating for good governance, and amplifying citizens’ voices.
He disclosed plans by GONET to expand engagement with state and non-state actors, as well as donour agencies, to accelerate the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
While accepting the award, Governor Inuwa Yahaya, expressed gratitude to GONET for recognizing his administration’s achievements and for its constructive engagement with the state government.
Represented by the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Professor Ibrahim Abubakar Njodi, the Governor dedicated the award to the people of Gombe, acknowledging their support, resilience, and shared commitment to the state’s development.
He assured the people that his government remains focused on delivering on its campaign promises through people-centered projects aimed at fostering sustainable economic growth.
In a keynote lecture titled: Enhancing Collaboration Among Government Tiers, Civil Societies, and Citizens for Sustainable Development, Speaker of the Gombe State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Abubakar Mohammed Luggerewo, stressed the need for stronger partnerships between government and CSOs.
He noted that meaningful development can only be achieved when both state and non-state actors work together in policy formulation and implementation.
Speaker Luggerewo urged governments at all levels to view CSOs as partners rather than adversaries, underscoring their critical role in governance, policy-making, and project execution.
Earlier in his address, GONET Board Chairman, Mr. Ado Solomon, commended Governor Inuwa Yahaya for consistently involving citizens and civil society groups in governance, particularly in the budgetary process.
He reiterated GONET’s commitment to working closely with the state government for the collective good of the people.
A key highlight of the event was the swearing-in of newly elected officials of the Gombe Network of Civil Society (GONET), who pledged to deepen collaboration with stakeholders in advancing the state’s development agenda.
