By:Abdullahi Inuwa
These words perfectly capture the vision and drive behind Governor Mai Mala Buni’s transformative investments across Yobe State. Since assuming office in 2019, the Yobe State Governor has consistently demonstrated that his leadership philosophy goes beyond the present — it is deeply anchored in shaping a prosperous and self-reliant future for generations to come.
Governor Buni’s approach to governance blends foresight, inclusivity, and sustainability. His administration has laid solid foundations across key sectors — education, health, agriculture, infrastructure, youth empowerment, and industrialization — all geared towards repositioning Yobe as a beacon of resilience, innovation, and opportunity in Nigeria’s Northeast.
Governor Buni’s flagship sector remains education, the cornerstone of Yobe’s future. Upon assumption of office, he declared a state of emergency in education — a bold decision that signaled a commitment to overhaul the sector from its roots. Under his watch, hundreds of dilapidated classrooms have been reconstructed, new model schools have been established, and teacher training has been prioritized to ensure quality learning outcomes.
The establishment of Yobe State University Teaching Hospital and continued investments in Yobe State University, Damaturu, have elevated higher education and healthcare training opportunities in the state. Buni’s administration also revitalized the Yobe State Polytechnic, Geidam, and College of Agriculture, Gujba, expanding access to technical and vocational education.
Perhaps one of the most commendable achievements is the Mega Schools Project, which provides modern learning facilities, laboratories, libraries, and ICT centers. These schools serve as centers of excellence, equipping students with 21st-century skills while bridging the gap between urban and rural education standards.
Governor Buni understands that a healthy population is the bedrock of progress. His administration has revitalized primary healthcare centers (PHCs) across all 178 political wards, ensuring residents have access to affordable and quality medical care.
The construction and equipping of the State Specialist Hospital, Potiskum, and the Maternity and Child Health Complex in Damaturu, reflect his vision for improved maternal and child health. Additionally, the recruitment of hundreds of healthcare workers and the supply of modern medical equipment underscore his administration’s focus on strengthening human capital and reducing mortality rates.
Recognizing agriculture as Yobe’s economic backbone, Governor Buni has repositioned the sector through mechanization, distribution of fertilizers, and access to improved seedlings. Under his Agricultural Transformation Programme, farmers now benefit from subsidized inputs, training, and irrigation projects that enhance productivity and food security.
To diversify the economy, the administration launched the Yobe Empowerment Support Scheme, providing youth and women with start-up grants, vocational tools, and entrepreneurship training. This initiative has not only reduced unemployment but has also created a new generation of self-reliant citizens contributing to the state’s economic growth.
Infrastructure development under Governor Buni’s leadership has reshaped the face of Yobe State. The Damaturu township roads, Potiskum dual carriageway, and link roads across rural communities have improved mobility and stimulated commerce. His administration has also prioritized the construction of housing units under the Mass Housing Programme, providing decent shelter for citizens and boosting the local construction industry.
In addition, the ongoing expansion of the Yobe International Cargo Airport, coupled with the rehabilitation of rural roads and electrification projects, demonstrates the governor’s ambition to connect Yobe to national and global economic networks.
Emerging from years of insurgency, Yobe State has made significant strides in peacebuilding and community reconstruction under Governor Buni’s inclusive leadership. His collaboration with security agencies and humanitarian partners has facilitated the safe resettlement of internally displaced persons (IDPs), rehabilitation of destroyed communities, and restoration of livelihoods.
Understanding that the future belongs to knowledge-driven economies, Governor Buni has embraced digital innovation. His administration has launched ICT training centers, e-learning programs, and digital skills initiatives targeting youths across the state. The goal is clear — to prepare Yobe’s young population for opportunities in technology, entrepreneurship, and global markets.
Conclusion: A Legacy of Visionary Leadership
Governor Mai Mala Buni’s developmental roadmap for Yobe State is not just about building infrastructure; it’s about building people — educated, healthy, empowered citizens who can sustain progress and innovation. His administration’s deliberate investments across multiple sectors reflect a deep understanding that true governance is measured not by immediate applause, but by lasting impact.
As Yobe State continues to rise from the shadows of the past, Buni’s vision stands as a testament to what purposeful leadership can achieve — transforming challenges into opportunities and laying the foundation for a prosperous, resilient future.
Indeed, in the words of Elizabeth Warren, “A good education is a foundation for a better future.” Governor Mai Mala Buni is proving that with the right investments, the future of Yobe State is not just hopeful — it is assured.
Abdullahi Inuwa
Social Commentator
ainuwa303@gmail.com
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