Joseph Orji says he is “overwhelmed” by the state’s urban renewal and development; commends Governor Inuwa Yahaya for promoting regional unity
The first Military Administrator of Gombe State, Group Captain Joseph Orji (rtd.), has commissioned six VIP residences at the Government House, describing himself as “overwhelmed” by the scale of urban renewal and development in the state.
The commissioning took place during activities marking Gombe State’s 30th anniversary. The residences, constructed by Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya, are named after the six states of the North-East.
Orji was accorded the honour in recognition of his historic role as the state’s first Military Administrator. Gombe was created on October 1, 1996, by the administration of the late General Sani Abacha.
Expressing delight at what he saw, Orji said he was proud of the state’s transformation.
“I’m overwhelmed by the spirit of urban renewal and what I have seen. I should say that I have been positively confused. I’m so proud, and I’m so happy to be here with you,” he said.
The six residences are fully completed and equipped with modern facilities, including lifts, to provide comfort, convenience and security for visiting governors and other high-profile guests.
Orji described Gombe as a “jewel in the Savannah” and a strategic meeting and transit point for the North-East. He said the new facilities reflected the state’s tradition of hospitality and Governor Inuwa Yahaya’s commitment to strengthening ties among states in the region.
“Gombe is a jewel in the Savannah, and you are providing that leadership and shelter to others,” he said, commending the governor for promoting regional cooperation and unity.
Governor Inuwa Yahaya said the residences were built to provide comfortable and secure accommodation for visiting governors and other distinguished guests at the Government House.
He also acknowledged the vision of Gombe’s founding fathers and pioneer administrators, saying successive governments have a responsibility to work towards fulfilling their aspirations for the state.
The Commissioner for Housing and Urban Development, Muhammad Sa’idu Fawu, said construction began in November 2023 and was completed in February 2025. He confirmed that the residences were fully completed and equipped with modern amenities.
After the ceremony, Governor Inuwa conducted Orji and other dignitaries on a tour of the facilities.
Representatives of the governments of Bauchi, Yobe, Taraba and Plateau states attended the event, alongside other dignitaries from the North-East and beyond.
Published by Alphapressmedia
