Yobe Agency for PPP and Investment Promotion - Yapppip

Over the months of April and May, YAPPPIP recorded significant milestones in its drive to promote investments, strengthen PPPs, and unlock economic opportunities across our dear State.

From facilitating strategic partnerships and investment engagements to hosting capacity building workshop, conducting project assessments across various agricultural and commercial facilities, and advancing key development initiatives, Yapppip continued to translate opportunities into concrete actions and lasting partnerships.

As the Agency builds on this momentum, we remains committed to attracting responsible investments, strengthening public assets, and delivering projects that create value, jobs, and long term prosperity for the good people of Yobe State and beyond.

From Recovery to Prosperity: Seven Years of Governor Mai Mala Buni's Development Journey in Yobe

By Dr. Mohammed Goje

In governance, history often judges leaders not merely by the projects they execute but by their ability to provide direction in moments of uncertainty, inspire confidence in difficult times, and build institutions that outlive their tenure. As Yobe State marks the seventh anniversary of the administration of His Excellency, Hon. (Dr.) Mai Mala Buni, CON, COMN, it is appropriate to reflect not only on what has been built, but on what has been transformed.

When Governor Mai Mala Buni assumed office in 2019, he embraced the responsibility of consolidating the developmental foundations already laid in Yobe State while charting a bold pathway toward greater prosperity, stability, and inclusive growth. At a time when the state was transitioning from recovery to renewal, the administration adopted a governance approach anchored on continuity, consolidation, and transformational leadership. The objective was clear: to preserve the hard-earned gains of peace and stability, strengthen institutions, expand economic opportunities, modernize infrastructure, and position Yobe State as a model of resilience and sustainable development in Northern Nigeria.

Seven years later, the story of Yobe State is increasingly becoming a story of resilience, strategic governance, and transformational leadership.

The most enduring achievement of the Buni administration is perhaps not a road, a school, or a hospital. It is the restoration of hope. Across communities that once symbolized displacement and uncertainty, there is renewed confidence in government and greater optimism about the future. Markets are active, schools are functioning, investments are growing, and citizens are increasingly participating in productive economic activities. This transformation did not happen by accident; it was the product of deliberate policies that placed security, stability, and social cohesion at the centre of governance.

The administration understood from the outset that development cannot flourish without peace. Consequently, significant investments were made in supporting security agencies, strengthening community resilience, promoting peacebuilding initiatives, and facilitating the recovery of communities affected by conflict. The result has been a more secure and stable environment that now serves as the foundation for economic growth and social development.

Beyond security, Governor Buni's administration has demonstrated a fundamental understanding of the relationship between infrastructure and economic transformation. Roads are not simply transportation assets; they are instruments of economic integration. Schools are not merely buildings; they are investments in future productivity. Hospitals are not just health facilities; they are foundations of human capital development.

This governance philosophy is evident in the administration's extensive investments in transportation infrastructure, healthcare, education, housing, agriculture, water supply, energy, and commerce. From township roads that connect rural communities to markets, to specialist hospitals that improve healthcare access, to mega schools that expand educational opportunities, the underlying objective has remained consistent: creating an enabling environment where citizens can thrive and contribute to the state's development.

Particularly noteworthy is the administration's emphasis on human capital development. The future competitiveness of any society depends on the quality of its people. Recognizing this reality, the government has invested heavily in education, professional training, healthcare delivery, and scholarship programmes. More than 48,000 students currently benefit from government scholarship support, while major investments in educational institutions and healthcare facilities are helping to build the skilled workforce required for the future economy.

Equally significant is the administration's commitment to economic inclusion. In many developing societies, unemployment and poverty remain major threats to stability and growth. Governor Buni's response has been to combine infrastructure development with economic empowerment. Through targeted interventions in agriculture, entrepreneurship, vocational skills development, industrial revitalization, and wealth creation programmes, thousands of citizens—particularly young people and women, have been provided with opportunities to improve their livelihoods and participate meaningfully in economic activities.

Agriculture, which remains the primary source of livelihood for the majority of Yobe's population, has received unprecedented policy attention. The development of the state's first Agricultural Policy, support for irrigation farming, fertilizer subsidy programmes, mechanization initiatives, and investments in livestock development reflect a strategic shift from subsistence agriculture towards a more productive and commercially viable agricultural economy.

Another defining feature of the administration has been its focus on institutional strengthening. Across the world, sustainable development is rarely achieved through personalities alone; it is achieved through strong institutions. Over the past seven years, Yobe State has witnessed significant reforms aimed at improving public service delivery, strengthening governance systems, enhancing accountability, modernizing government infrastructure, and promoting evidence-based planning. These reforms may not always attract headlines, but they are among the most important investments any government can make.

Perhaps one of the most remarkable aspects of the Buni administration is its commitment to balanced development. Progress has not been concentrated in a single city or region. Investments have been deliberately spread across communities, local governments, and sectors, ensuring that development reaches citizens irrespective of geography. This inclusive approach has strengthened social cohesion and reinforced the principle that government exists to serve all citizens.

As we reflect on seven years of governance, it is important to acknowledge that development is a journey rather than a destination. Challenges remain, as they do in every society. However, what distinguishes successful governments is their ability to confront challenges with vision, determination, and strategic focus.

The experience of Yobe State over the last seven years demonstrates that transformational governance is possible when leadership is guided by clear priorities, prudent resource management, institutional discipline, and a genuine commitment to public service. It demonstrates that even in the face of adversity, progress can be achieved when government remains focused on the long-term interests of its people.

The true legacy of any administration is not measured solely by physical infrastructure but by the opportunities it creates the institutions it strengthens, the confidence it inspires, and the future it secures for generations yet unborn.

As Yobe State celebrates seven years of continuity, consolidation, and transformational leadership, the administration of His Excellency, Governor Mai Mala Buni can take pride in having laid a strong continuity foundation for sustainable development, economic prosperity, and social progress. The task ahead is to consolidate these gains and continue building a state that future generations will be proud to inherit.

That, ultimately, is the Yobe story. A story of resilience. A story of recovery. A story of transformation. And above all, a story of leadership driven by service to the people under our amiable Governor, His Excellency Hon (Dr) Mai Mala Buni CON, COMN

Dr. Mohammed Goje, FRSPH
Is the Ag. Secretary to the State Government, Yobe State
Writes From Damaturu

Eid Mubarak from all of us at Yobe State Agency for Public Private Partnership and Investment Promotion (YAPPPIP)
May this special day bring joy, love, and peace to you and your family.

YAPPPIP Facilitates Signing of Deed of Lease Agreement of Yobe State Hotel

The Yobe State Government, represented by the Honourable Commisioner of Commerce, Industry, Tourism, and Solid Minerals, has signed a Deed of Lease Agreement with Yamaji Grand Impex Ltd for the revitalization and upgrade of Yobe State Hotel, in a process facilitated by Yobe State Agency for Public Private Partnership and Investment Promotion (YAPPPIP).

The Director General YAPPPIP, in his welcome remarks, described the agreement as the product of months of engagements, reviews, and mutual understanding aimed at ensuring a beneficial partnership for all parties and the good people of Yobe State.

The Honourable Commissioner for Commerce, Industry, Tourism, and Solid Minerals, Hon. Kaigama Umar Yunusari. commended His Excellency Hon. (Dr) Mai Mala Buni CON, COMN for establishing YAPPPIP, describing the agency as vital in today’s investment landscape, while calling investors to explore numerous opportunities available in the State.

Speaking on behalf of Yamaji Grand Impex Ltd, the chairman, Amb Babagana Ajimi appreciated the Yobe State Government for its commitment towards revitalizing public assets and commended YAPPPIP for its dedication throughout the process.

He further pledged the company’s commitment to fully abide by the terms of the agreement and expressed appreciation to His Excellency for creating an enabling environment for investment to thrive in the State.

The project is expected to create job opportunities, improve the State’s Internally Generated Revenue (IGR), and contribute significantly to the socio-economic development of the State.

A Farewell Ceremony for Passing Out Corps Members by YAPPPIP

The farewell ceremony for the passing out corps members serving at Yobe State Agency for Public Private Partnership and Investment Promotion commenced with an opening prayer delivered by Bukar Kale Gana, Director of Finance and Administration. This was followed by a session of self-introduction by members of staff of YAPPPIP and representatives of the National Youth Service Corps Damaturu office.

In his welcome address, the Director General warmly welcomed everyone to the special occasion organized in honour of the outgoing corps members. Special recognition was accorded to Barr. Mustapha and Dr. Nafisa Bukar, representatives of the Borno State Investment Promotion Agency, for gracing the event with their presence.

The DG described the outgoing corps members as disciplined, dedicated, and hardworking youths. He noted that YAPPPIP has always regarded corps members not merely as service personnel, but as vibrant young individuals willing to learn and adapt to different working environments. He further highlighted the competitive nature of today’s economy, encouraging the corps members to remain focused, committed, and dedicated in overcoming future challenges.

The Director General also expressed profound appreciation to the agency and staff for making the corps members’ service year impactful and worthwhile. He sincerely thanked the corps members for their immense contributions to the growth and activities of the agency, while praying for wisdom, success, and greater achievements in their future endeavours. He concluded by stating that although the agency bids them farewell, their contributions will always be remembered and appreciated.

Speaking on behalf of the State Coordinator, Yakubu Ibrahim Muhammad commended YAPPPIP as one of the best Places of Primary Assignment (PPA) in Damaturu. He appreciated the Director General, management, and entire staff of the agency for their support and commitment towards the welfare and development of corps members. He also acknowledged the corps members for their dedication, punctuality, and active participation in PPA duties, CDS activities, and other NYSC engagements.

In a message of appreciation delivered on behalf of the corps members, Mercy Edoh expressed gratitude to the management and staff of YAPPPIP for the support, mentorship, and conducive working environment provided throughout their service year.

The vote of thanks and appreciation was delivered by Abdullahi Adamu Nikau, Director of Legal Services and Strategy, who commended the corps members for their outstanding conduct and valuable contributions to the agency.

The event concluded with the presentation of tokens to the passing out corps members as a mark of appreciation and recognition for their service to the agency.

The workshop recorded active participation, knowledge exchange, and strong engagement among attendees, reflecting a shared commitment to improving service delivery and advancing infrastructure development within the State.

In conclusion, the workshop achieved its core objective of enhancing the technical capacity of stakeholders in PPP implementation. It is expected that the insights and competencies gained will be effectively applied to drive efficient project delivery, strengthen public-private collaboration, and support long-term economic growth.

Conclusion of the 3-Day Capacity Building Workshop Organized by Africa Public-Private Partnership Network (AP3)

The three-day capacity building workshop organized in collaboration with the Africa Public-Private Partnership Advisory Ltd (AP3) successfully concluded after a series of intensive and insightful sessions focused on strengthening Public-Private Partnership (PPP) frameworks and institutional capacity.

Over the course of the programme, participants—including PPP Desk Officers, YAPPPIP staff, and representatives from various institutions—were exposed to practical knowledge on PPP structuring, risk allocation and sharing mechanisms, project financing, and strategies for revitalizing State-Owned Enterprises (SOEs). The sessions, facilitated by seasoned experts, provided both technical depth and real-world perspectives relevant to infrastructure development. Key highlights included discussions on the identification and revitalization of priority SOEs, evaluation of viable PPP models, and the importance of creating bankable and sustainable projects that can attract private sector investment.

The workshop recorded active participation, knowledge exchange, and strong engagement among attendees, reflecting a shared commitment to improving service delivery and advancing infrastructure development within the State.

In conclusion, the workshop achieved its core objective of enhancing the technical capacity of stakeholders in PPP implementation. It is expected that the insights and competencies gained will be effectively applied to drive efficient project delivery, strengthen public-private collaboration, and support long-term economic growth.