Gombe State Governor Muhammadu Yahaya has cautioned newly inaugurated commissioners, special advisers and permanent secretaries against corruption and abuse of office, insisting that public resources must be managed solely in the interest of the people.
Speaking during the swearing-in of 23 commissioners at the Government House on Saturday, the governor said his administration would not tolerate any conduct capable of undermining its reputation as it enters its final year in office.
“The power, authorities and funds belonging to government must be used solely for the benefit of our people and not for the benefit of any single individual or group.
“This administration will not condone indiscipline, corruption or any act capable of tarnishing the hard-earned image of our government. You are not merely ambassadors of government; you are servants of the people of Gombe State,” he said.
Yahaya urged the appointees to deliver results immediately, stressing that they had little time to make an impact before the end of the administration.
“You have less than a year to make your mark. There is absolutely no time for learning or institutional orientation; you need to hit the ground running immediately,” he said.
Describing their appointments as a “sacred public trust,” the governor urged the officials to carry out their duties with integrity, discipline and the fear of God.
He also commended the Gombe State House of Assembly for swiftly confirming the commissioner nominees and praised permanent secretaries for ensuring uninterrupted governance after the State Executive Council was dissolved in April.
Yahaya said the commissioners were selected from different local government areas and professional backgrounds to strengthen governance and ensure government policies deliver tangible benefits to residents.
He charged the special advisers to provide innovative, evidence-based recommendations, while urging permanent secretaries to eliminate bureaucratic bottlenecks, enforce transparency and mentor civil servants.
With the 2027 elections approaching, the governor said governance must remain the administration’s top priority, arguing that its performance should speak louder than political campaigns.
“Your achievements in office must serve as our most potent campaign tools because this government talks through its work and verifiable performance,” he said.
Yahaya also criticised opposition parties, claiming they lacked alternative ideas and had resorted to personal attacks, while insisting his administration would continue to campaign on its record in office.
He called on traditional rulers, community leaders, civil society organisations and other stakeholders to support the new appointees in delivering effective governance across the state.