The Yobe State Government has reaffirmed its commitment to improving the lives of its citizens through significant investments in the social sector. Governor Mai Mala Buni unveiled this commitment while presenting the 2025 budget, allocating N108,469,366,000 to capital and recurrent expenditures in education, healthcare, youth development, sports, and environmental sustainability.
Prioritizing Education
Governor Buni emphasized the administration’s focus on enhancing education across all levels. Projects earmarked for funding include:
- Rehabilitation and upgrading of key schools such as GSS Daura, GDSS Damaturu, GSS Jakusko, GSS Geidam, GSTC Nguru, and GGSS Gadaka.
- Construction of classrooms, offices, staff quarters, and perimeter fencing.
- Sustaining the school feeding program with improved nutritional quality, including eggs and meat.
- Provision of modern instructional materials, classroom furniture, and solar lighting systems for a conducive learning environment.
Buni also highlighted investments in boarding facilities with the construction of hostels and theater halls. Scholarship payments, tuition, and examination fees will be supported to ease the burden on families.
Advancing Healthcare Services
In healthcare, the 2025 budget aims to consolidate achievements and align with Sustainable Development Goals. Proposed projects include:
- Construction of a Maternity and Child Health Complex at the State Specialist Hospital (SSH) in Damaturu.
- Development of a Pediatric Ward at the SSH in Potiskum and a Special Baby Care Unit in Buni-Yadi.
- Upgrades at the Yobe State University Teaching Hospital, including the addition of:
- Three hemodialysis machines.
- A reverse osmosis system and a fluoroscopy machine.
- Fully automated blood chemistry analyzers.
Funds have also been allocated for vaccinations, procurement of drugs, and facility expansions in hospitals across the state.
Empowering Youths, Women, and the Underprivileged
To support women and youths, the budget includes:
- Construction of Women Development Centers in Nguru, Damagum, and Buni-Yadi.
- Establishment of a new Remand Home and Transit Camp in Damaturu and the renovation of the Gashua Remand Home.
- Procurement of empowerment materials for women in agriculture, youth skill acquisition, and mass wedding initiatives.
The blind workshops in Damaturu and Potiskum will also be rehabilitated and equipped with modern facilities to support inclusive development.
Environmental Sustainability
Addressing desertification and environmental degradation remains a key priority. The Ministry of Environment will spearhead:
- The establishment of 13 plantations and reclamation of 3,077 hectares of land.
- Raising 3,384,700 seedlings to combat desert encroachment and erosion.
Strengthening Sports and Infrastructure
Governor Buni announced plans for the remodeling of the 27th August Stadium and the construction of a conference hall at the Ministry of Women Affairs. These initiatives aim to foster community engagement and provide recreational opportunities.
A Vision for an Improved Yobe
Governor Buni’s administration is steadfast in its mission to uplift Yobe State by investing in critical social infrastructure. By prioritizing education, healthcare, youth empowerment, and environmental sustainability, the 2025 budget reflects a comprehensive approach to achieving long-term growth and improving the quality of life for Yobe’s residents.