The Gombe State Executive Council on Monday approved the installation of solar streetlights for 11 kilometres at about N1.06 billion.

Disclosing this to journalists shortly after the end of the 49th SEC meeting presided over by Governor Muhammadu Yahaya, the Commissioner for Trade, Industry and Tourism, Nasiru Aliyu, said the solar streetlights would improve night businesses and safety.

He said, “SEC approved solar streetlights. I want you to know that this is a continuation, and it has been in existence, and the council realised the importance of continuing with such projects because of how it improves security and extends business hours in Gombe State.”

Disclosing the amount, Aliyu added, “Approval was granted for N1.068,583,875.83. The company awarded is Messrs Sigma Electric Ltd. It’s for 11 kilometres.”

The council also approved 365 hectares of land for the newly established Faculty of Agriculture at Gombe State University, Malam Sidi Campus, to ensure a smooth take-off and promote academic excellence.

The Commissioner for Information, Culture and Ethical Orientation, Mijinyawa Ardo Tilde, disclosed that among the approvals granted was the completion of Phases I, II, and an additional Phase III of the Citizenship and Leadership Training Centre, located in Yamaltu Deba Local Government Area. This, he noted, is part of the government’s commitment to youth development and leadership capacity building.

Speaking on efforts to ensure the seamless take-off of the newly established Faculty of Agriculture, the Commissioner for Agriculture, Animal Husbandry and Cooperatives, Dr Barnabas Malle, recalled that the SEC had earlier approved the establishment of the faculty on May 26, 2025, in Malam Sidi, Kwami Local Government Area.

To meet accreditation requirements set by the National Universities Commission, Malle stated that the council has approved the provision of 365 hectares of land in Garin Tafida, Yamaltu Deba LGA, for demonstration farms and academic purposes.

“The land is expected to serve as a practical learning site for students and will further diversify the agricultural landscape of the state,” he said.

Commissioner for Higher Education, Muhammad Gadam, explained that efforts are underway to acquire additional land in Kurugu, Kwami LGA, to support further expansion and fulfil NUC stipulations.

The Higher Education Commissioner also disclosed that approval has been granted by the NUC for the commencement of admission, reiterating that the state government is working collaboratively with all stakeholders to ensure academic activities begin in the 2025/2026 academic session.

“His Excellency is committed to expanding access to quality education and ensuring that our youth are equipped with the right skills and experiences,” the commissioner emphasised.