The Governor of Gombe State, Inuwa Yahaya, has officially unveiled the Gombe State Monitoring and Evaluation (M&E) Policy, reinforcing his administration’s dedication to promoting transparency, accountability, and good governance.
The launch, held at the International Hotel in Gombe, was presided over by the Deputy Governor, Manassah Jatau, on behalf of the Governor, Tuesday.
The M&E Policy is designed to establish a robust framework to assess the effectiveness of government policies, programmes, and projects.
In his speech, the Deputy Governor emphasised that the policy is in line with Governor Yahaya’s vision of fostering economic growth and advancing human capital development in the state.
He described the policy as a strategic tool that will ensure evidence-based decision-making, streamline budget planning, and support efficient allocation of resources across the state.
“The Monitoring and Evaluation framework aligns with the Ten-Year (2021–2030) Development Agenda for Gombe State,” Jatau explained.
“It will ensure that the progress of various government initiatives is closely monitored, and that commitments are evaluated. This will guarantee that government strategies and programmes deliver tangible benefits to the people of Gombe.”
Jatau reiterated the administration’s commitment to promoting result-based planning and continuous learning.
He stressed that regular performance monitoring and reporting would be made to the State Executive Council and the State House of Assembly, which will help to maintain accountability at all levels of government.
“The M&E policy will not only improve communities across Gombe State but will also enhance service delivery, boosting the confidence of citizens in their future prospects,” Jatau remarked.
Also speaking at the event, Alhaji Salisu Baba Alkali, the Commissioner for Budget and Economic Planning, praised the launch of the policy as a major milestone in the state’s efforts to strengthen its monitoring systems. He explained that the new framework is focused on tracking outcomes and impacts, ensuring alignment with the broader development agenda of Gombe State.
Alkali acknowledged the contributions of development partners, particularly UNICEF, which played a significant role in shaping the policy.
“The Monitoring and Evaluation team, led by our consultant and supported by specialists from UNICEF, has worked tirelessly to design effective systems that align with our ten-year development plan,” he said.
Professor Nwokocha Ezebunwa from the University of Ibadan, who gave an in-depth overview of the policy during the event, highlighted its comprehensive and systematic approach to governance.
He urged the state government to remain committed to ensuring timely funding and regular assessments to keep up with evolving trends and emerging needs.
In their goodwill messages, key stakeholders, including UNICEF’s Chief of Planning, Monitoring, and Reporting, Wayne Barcale, and Mrs. Ayinde Yakubu, Director of National Monitoring and Evaluation at the Federal Ministry of Budget and Economic Planning, commended Gombe State for being the first in Nigeria to domesticate the M&E policy.
Jalo Ibrahim Ali, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Budget and Economic Planning, reflected on the long journey of domesticating the policy, while the Special Adviser of the Development Partner Coordination Office, Dr. Ishaku Babayo, thanked the attendees for their support and participation in the event.
The introduction of the Monitoring and Evaluation Policy is expected to significantly enhance governance and foster a culture of accountability in Gombe State.
By closely monitoring government activities and assessing their impacts, the state is poised to stay on track toward achieving its development goals, ensuring that the people of Gombe benefit from improved services and a more transparent government.
