By: Jide Akinseye
As subnational governments intensify efforts to strengthen food production and diversify local economies, Gombe State is positioning agriculture at the centre of its development agenda through strategic international partnerships. The state government says sustained collaboration with global development institutions will not only improve productivity and climate resilience but also create jobs, empower rural communities and stimulate inclusive economic growth.
Governor of Gombe State, Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya, has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to sustaining strategic partnerships aimed at accelerating agricultural development, improving livelihoods and expanding economic opportunities across the state.
The governor made the declaration while receiving a delegation from the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) of the British High Commission and officials of Propcom+ at the Government House in Gombe.
The delegation was in the state for an annual review of the Propcom+ partnership with the Gombe State Government and consultations on future areas of collaboration designed to strengthen agriculture, food security and rural development.
Leading the delegation, Food and Agriculture Adviser at the FCDO, Archie Stay, said the visit was intended to assess ongoing interventions under the Propcom+ programme and engage stakeholders on the next phase of the partnership.
Other members of the delegation included Senior Programme Manager at FCDO, Valentine Udida; Country Representative of Propcom+, Adiya Ode; and Strategy Director of Propcom+, Olumide Ojo.
Speaking during the meeting, Governor Yahaya expressed confidence that the partnership between Gombe State and Propcom+ would continue to deliver measurable impact, especially in the areas of agricultural productivity, climate adaptation, rural empowerment and economic inclusion.
According to him, agriculture remains one of the most critical pillars of the state’s economic transformation agenda, with the sector providing employment opportunities and serving as a catalyst for industrial growth and poverty reduction.
He stressed that collaboration with reputable international development institutions such as the FCDO is essential to achieving sustainable development goals and strengthening the resilience of local farmers and vulnerable communities.
The governor also commended the British development agency and Propcom+ for supporting reforms and intervention programmes targeted at improving the living conditions of farmers, women and rural dwellers across the state.
Particularly, he praised Propcom+ for its contribution to the development of Gombe State’s Agro-Industrial Policy, which has already received approval from the State Executive Council and is awaiting formal launch.
Governor Yahaya further assured the delegation that his administration would continue to implement policies capable of encouraging innovation, attracting private investment and guaranteeing long-term growth in the agricultural sector.
In his remarks, Archie Stay applauded the Gombe State Government for demonstrating what he described as strong political commitment toward programmes that promote food security, climate resilience and inclusive economic growth.
He noted that the state’s proactive approach to agricultural reforms and rural development has positioned it as a strategic partner under the Propcom+ initiative.
The meeting was attended by the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Finance and Economic Development, Jalo Ali, and the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Agriculture, Ahmed Guli.
