From Abdulrazaq Mungadi, Gombe
Gombe State Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya has donated N5 Million to the state Blacksmith (Makera) Association. The donation is in response to a recent fire incident at the Makera Shades in Gombe Main Market.
The fire incident which reportedly occurred in January is said to have caused extensive damage to the market and resulted in loss of valuable properties. Presenting the intervention and support fund to leaders and members of the association at the Government House on Thursday, the Secretary to the State Government (SSG) Prof. Ibrahim Abubakar Njodi stated that the intervention is aimed at ameliorating the losses recorded and not a compensation.
He added that the donation was made after visiting the market to assess the damage and commiserate with the affected traders. While empathizing with the affected persons, the SSG also attributed the seeming delay in the government’s intervention to processes and procedures which he noted began with the assessment by the State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) to identify the level of damages and individuals affected.
He further appreciated the association and other victims for being patient, assuring that the state governor, Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya had always prioritized the welfare and development of the people, adding that the governor will continue to support entrepreneurs who have been contributing to the state’s economy.
Meanwhile, the SSG enjoined them to use the government support to rebuild and improve their businesses for the benefit of all members.
On his part, the Executive Secretary of SEMA, Abdullahi Haruna disclosed that the governor’s approval and release of the fund followed the agency’s prudent assessment to ensure genuinely affected persons are recommended.
Reacting to the development, the chairman of the association, Chindo Alhaji Baba appreciated the governor and his team for identifying with their needs whenever presented citing the gully erosion control work that has been a major threat to their businesses and the provision of an electric transformer to the area.
He said his members were not in any way doubtful while waiting for the government’s intervention because they had every reason to believe Governor Yahaya to fulfill promises made to the people.