As Nigeria marked its 2025 Democracy Day on Wednesday, the Bauchi State Commissioner for Natural Development, Muhammad Maiwada Bello, has commended Governor Bala Abdulkadir Mohammed for what he described as “unprecedented strides in governance and development over the last six years.”
Speaking to journalists in Bauchi, the Commissioner said this year’s celebration offered an opportunity to reflect on the impact of leadership at the sub-national level, particularly in states like Bauchi, where “democracy is not just symbolic, but transformative.”
Six Years of Steady Progress
Governor Bala Mohammed assumed office in May 2019 and has since implemented wide-ranging reforms and development projects across critical sectors including infrastructure, healthcare, education, housing, and governance.
Bello highlighted that under Governor Bala’s stewardship, Bauchi has witnessed the construction and rehabilitation of uncountable roads connecting rural and urban communities, significantly improving transportation and economic activities.
He also noted major interventions in the water sector, including the expansion of the Gubi Dam pipeline system and the drilling of over 1,000 boreholes across rural areas, which have improved access to safe drinking water.
Healthcare and Education Receive Boost
The Commissioner said the administration has prioritized human capital development by upgrading health facilities across the state and expanding access to basic education.
“In six years, the state government has renovated hundreds of primary healthcare centers and public schools. It has also covered the cost of WAEC, NECO, and JAMB for over 14,000 students from indigent backgrounds,” Bello stated.
Tackling Ghost Workers and Growing Revenue
On governance reforms, the Commissioner said Governor Bala’s administration introduced financial accountability mechanisms that led to the removal of over 2,100 ghost workers from the state payroll, saving millions in public funds.
“Through improved revenue collection systems and tax reforms, the state’s internally generated revenue rose from ₦27 billion in 2019 to ₦42.7 billion by 2022,” he added.
Security and Social Development
According to him, the creation of the Ministry of Internal Security and Civil Protection was a strategic response to the growing need for local security interventions. He cited the rescue of kidnapped victims in Tafawa Balewa Local Government Area as evidence of improved coordination between the state and community vigilantes.
He also mentioned the pardon and reintegration of over 240 inmates into society with financial empowerment, saying the policy reflects Governor Bala’s compassionate and reform-minded approach to justice.
Affordable Housing and Rural Development
Bello disclosed that the administration constructed over 2,500 housing units in Dungal village and has embarked on another 1,500-unit housing project to address the shelter deficit in the state.
He also said several rural electrification and solar-powered water projects have improved the lives of people in remote areas.
Democracy at Work in Bauchi
“As we celebrate Democracy Day, we are proud to say Bauchi State stands as a shining example of democracy at work. The people have seen the dividends of good governance and effective leadership,” Bello remarked.
He reaffirmed the Ministry’s commitment to support the state’s natural development agenda through sustainable agricultural practices, water resource management, and rural infrastructure development.
Call for National Reflection
The Commissioner concluded by urging Nigerians to use the occasion to reflect on the progress made since the return to democratic rule and to support leaders who prioritize the welfare of the people.
“Democracy is not just about elections; it’s about service, accountability, and inclusive development. Governor Bala Mohammed embodies these ideals,” he said.