Gombe State has received praise from the World Bank Country Director for Nigeria, Matthew Verghis, over its handling of development projects.
During an official visit to the state on March 18, 2026, Verghis said Gombe has become a strong example of how to implement World Bank-supported projects in Nigeria.
He praised Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya for showing a strong commitment to project delivery and sustainability.
“We have seen that projects perform better in Gombe than in many other states. One major reason is the governor’s active involvement,” he said.
Verghis said the World Bank recently introduced reforms that give state governments more responsibility for project implementation.
According to him, the new system has improved accountability, efficiency, and sustainability.
He explained that states now access funding based on their level of readiness and their ability to meet clear performance targets.
He said Gombe has shown that even states with limited resources can record strong results through commitment and leadership.
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Verghis also spoke about the World Bank’s current approach in Nigeria.
He said the Bank now focuses more on results-based financing and private sector investment to expand development impact.
He added that collaboration and innovation will remain important in making the best use of available resources.
The Country Director also praised Gombe’s progress in early childhood development. He pointed to improvements in maternal health, child survival, nutrition, and education.
He said these areas are important and require joint action across sectors.
Governor Inuwa Yahaya thanked the World Bank for its continued support.
He described the partnership as important to the state’s development efforts.
“Gombe is among the least-resourced states in federal allocation, but with support from partners like the World Bank, we have delivered projects that improve the lives of our people,” the governor said.
He said the state is benefiting from several World Bank-supported interventions across major sectors, with more projects expected.
The governor also said his administration remains focused on inclusion and sustainability.
He noted that health interventions now cover all 114 wards in the state. He added that each ward has at least one functional primary healthcare centre, while many now have two or more.
Governor Yahaya restated his administration’s focus on human capital development, especially in nutrition and healthcare.
He said the state will continue to promote ownership, sustainability, and full delivery of project goals.
“Every intervention we implement is aimed at improving the living conditions of our people,” he said.
The governor also promised continued cooperation, transparency, and support for the World Bank to help sustain development results in the state.
