By Hassa Hussain
As Nigeria marks this year’s June 12 Democracy Day, the Chairman of Toungo Local Government Council and Adamawa State Chairman of the Association of Local Governments of Nigeria, ALGON, Hon. Suleiman Ahmed Gangkuba, has commended Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri for unveiling a 10-year Strategic Development Plan aimed at repositioning the state for sustainable growth.
In a statement, Hon. Gangkuba described the development roadmap as a bold step towards consolidating the gains of democracy, saying it aligns with the vision of the founding fathers and heroes of Nigeria’s democratic struggle.
He explained that the strategic plan, which focuses on security, governance, economy, human capital development, environment and WASH, is designed to promote inclusive growth, improve social wellbeing and strengthen development planning across Adamawa State.
According to him, the initiative builds on the achievements of the Medium-Term Development Plan 2021–2025, and represents a deliberate effort by the Fintiri administration to move Adamawa from the margins to the forefront of national development.
Hon. Gangkuba noted that through investments in agriculture, healthcare, education, infrastructure, social development and good governance, the administration has continued to deliver the dividends of democracy to citizens, especially at the grassroots.
He described the 10-year roadmap as more than a policy document, but a people-centred development agenda that reflects accountability, institutional strengthening and commitment to improving the lives of residents.
The ALGON Chairman said Governor Fintiri’s leadership direction mirrors the ideals of June 12, which include accountable governance, respect for institutions and development that reaches every citizen irrespective of location.
Hon. Gangkuba also applauded the collaboration among the Executive, Legislature and Judiciary in Adamawa State, while commending the Secretary to the State Government, Barrister Awal Tukur, the State Planning Commission led by Dr. Mary Pendiga, and development partners including Oxfam Netherlands for their contributions to the success of the plan.
He appreciated political leaders, women, youths, civil servants, civil society groups, security agencies, the media and development partners for their resilience and commitment to the progress of the state.
On Democracy Day, Hon. Gangkuba called on the 21 local government areas of Adamawa State to adopt the strategic pillars of the development plan and translate them into practical projects that will impact market women, workers, students, youths and children.
He reaffirmed ALGON Adamawa’s support for policies that promote development at the local level, while expressing optimism that effective legislation would strengthen local government financial autonomy and improve service delivery.
