Gombe to spend N28.9bn on new state assembly, high court complexes

Gombe State Governor, Muhammadu Yahaya, has laid the foundation for the construction of ultra-modern complexes for the Gombe State House of Assembly and High Court.

These projects are part of the broader Three-Arms Zone initiative, which aims to accommodate the state’s executive, legislative, and judicial branches in one location.

The twin projects, with a combined cost of N28.9 billion, represent the largest investment in governance infrastructure since the state’s creation in 1996.

Speaking at the groundbreaking ceremony on Wednesday, Yahaya reiterated his administration’s commitment to creating an enabling environment for all arms of government. He described the initiative as transformative in addressing the state’s governance infrastructure deficit.

“Since its creation 28 years ago, Gombe State has never witnessed such a consolidated effort to provide a befitting working environment for civil and public servants,” the governor stated.

“By equipping them with world-class facilities, we reaffirm our belief in the sanctity of their functions and our commitment to strengthening governance structures that underpin democracy and societal progress.”

Yahaya emphasised the importance of legislative and judicial autonomy, highlighting how the new complexes would enhance the functionality of these arms of government.

“These edifices represent not only physical structures but also a foundation for a vibrant and progressive state where governance is responsive, institutions are strong, and every citizen has the opportunity to thrive,” he said.

Repurposing Old Facilities, Project Details

The governor also announced plans to convert the old House of Assembly and High Court buildings into a hospital and a girls’ college, respectively, to serve nearby communities.

“This is part of our broader vision to ensure that every project contributes to the overall development of Gombe State and leaves a lasting legacy for generations to come,” Yahaya said.

The State High Court Complex, costing N14.9 billion, will include 12 courtrooms, a ceremonial court, judges’ offices, an e-library, and a media centre. The House of Assembly Complex, awarded at N14.05 billion, will feature legislative chambers, offices for key officials, a library, conference halls, a clinic, and a media centre.

Project consultant, Oni Oluseyi of Artec Practice Limited, noted that the designs draw inspiration from Gombe’s cultural heritage to create iconic and timeless structures.

“This is a state-of-the-art development that balances modernity with tradition, symbolising progress while preserving cultural identity,” Oluseyi said.

Commitment to Quality

Representatives of the construction firms, Datum Construction Company and GMC, pledged to deliver the projects to the highest standards of quality, safety, and efficiency.

The Speaker of the Gombe State House of Assembly, Abubakar Luggerewo, commended the initiative, stating that the new complexes would enhance the relationship between the three arms of government.

“These projects will not only provide a conducive environment for our legislative and judicial functions but will also strengthen the synergy among the three arms of government,” Luggerewo said.

Chief Judge of the state, Justice Halima Sadiya Mohammed, represented by Justice Suleiman Yahaya Abubakar, praised the governor’s commitment to improving judicial infrastructure.

“This signifies a rare commitment to upholding the rule of law, ensuring justice, and protecting the rights of all citizens,” she said.

The Commissioner of Works, Housing, and Transport, Engr. Usman Kallamu described the groundbreaking ceremony as a milestone in strengthening democracy in Gombe State.

“These projects reflect Governor Yahaya’s dedication to progress and development, in line with his vision of transforming Gombe into a model of good governance,” Kallamu said.

In his concluding remarks, Yahaya reaffirmed his resolve to leave Gombe State better than he found it, citing achievements in education, healthcare, road infrastructure, agriculture, and security as evidence of his administration’s commitment.

“We are building not just structures but legacies,” he said.