From Abdulrazaq Mungadi, Gombe
The Speaker of the House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abbas, has commissioned a series of constituency projects initiated by the Minority Whip of the House and member representing Billiri/Balanga federal constituency, Ali Isa JC in Talasse and Cham communities, Balanga Local Government Area (LGA) of Gombe State.
The initiative, which is part of Ali JC’s development agenda for the constituency, distributed agricultural implements, healthcare delivery tools and other assets, including mini tractors, vehicles, motorcycles and tricycle, as well as ambulances, food items, and other assorted irrigation kits, and agricultural inputs to over 4,000 beneficiaries in both communities.
Speaking during the flag-off of the distribution in Cham, Speaker Abbas commended the lawmaker who he described as a fixer and a model legislator for developmental strides. He said, “A fixer doesn’t merely patch problems, he provides sustainable solutions. These projects underscore a deep commitment to grassroots transformation”.
Commenting on other projects which include the 7 kilometre Bangu to Talasse Road, 4 kilometre Kulo to Kwasi Road, and a 5 kilometre Cham Township road network and the Adamu Usman Degri Community Townhall commissioned in Talase and Cham, Abbas stated that the initiative will significantly contribute to fostering community development, supporting health services and empowering residents to enhance their quality of life.
“This interventions serve as a reminder of our shared commitment to progress, underscoring the crucial role the legislators play in promoting socioeconomic development of our communities. The projects commissioned today highlights the significance of constituency project,” the Speaker remarked.
Meanwhile, in his address, Ali JC revealed that under the initiative, educational and health infrastructure received attention, highlighting the construction of over 30 schools, 40 solar-powered boreholes, clinics, and the provision of solar streetlights in more than 60 villages.
He added that places of worship, including a mosque and church were constructed in the Government Girls Secondary School, Tiksir, Cham.
Ali JC further revealed that major roadworks are ongoing in Billiri and Balanga LGAs to improve access to agricultural and economic activities. According to him, the efforts are designed to alleviate poverty, stimulate job creation, and ensure sustainable development.
The Minority Whip added that the beneficiary selection transcended political, ethnic, and religious lines. As he assured members of the People Democratic Party (PDP), All Progressives Congress (APC) and other political parties are on the beneficiaries list.
He also announced a new phase of empowerment targeting 2,000 additional constituents, and disclosed that over 100 federal job placements had been secured under his representation.
Speaking on behalf of the traditional rulers in the areas, the Bala Waja, Mai Tangle, and Mai Kaltungo, expressed gratitude for the initiatives and called for road expansions linking the constituency to Adamawa State through Talasse to Guyuk road.