By Yusuf Muhammad Inuwa

Radio Nigeria Jewel FM Gombe is set for a major upgrade as the station prepares to receive a brand-new transmitter and modern broadcasting equipment to enhance its operations and service delivery.

The Acting Zonal Director, North East of the Federal Radio Corporation of Nigeria (FRCN), Mallam Dahiru Garba Muhammad, disclosed this during an inspection visit to the station in Gombe. The visit was to assess the ongoing installation of solar panels at the premises.

Mallam Dahiru explained that the new transmitter and additional equipment are part of the transformation agenda being driven by the Director General of FRCN, aimed at strengthening the capacity of stations nationwide.

He assured that all Radio Nigeria FM stations across the North East subregion will benefit from the initiative, in line with the corporation’s commitment to promoting quality broadcasting, wider coverage, and improved audience engagement.

The Zonal Director also lauded the North East Development Commission (NEDC) for its partnership and support to FRCN stations in the region through the provision of solar power systems. He noted that the intervention will not only reduce operational costs but also enhance efficiency and sustainability of broadcast services.

With the new facilities, Jewel FM Gombe is expected to deliver clearer signals, broader reach, and more reliable programming to its audience across Gombe State and beyond.

By Barrister Sani Ahmadu Haruna, ALGON Chairman, Gombe State

The establishment of the Ultra-Modern Abattoir and Grains Market in Gombe State is a monumental step toward unlocking the vast economic potential of our state.

Spearheaded by the visionary leadership of Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya, this transformative initiative underscores a firm commitment to diversifying the economy, fostering entrepreneurship, and uplifting the livelihoods of our people.

This dual-purpose facility an advanced abattoir and a dedicated grains market is poised to be a game-changer for Gombe State, delivering numerous benefits that promise to redefine our economic landscape.

A Modern Facility for Quality and Hygiene

The Ultra-Modern Abattoir stands as a testament to innovation in livestock processing, providing a state-of-the-art, hygienic environment for the production of high-quality meat products that meet international standards.

This facility not only bolsters food security but also enhances the ability of our livestock farmers to access lucrative markets with fair pricing for their produce.

Streamlined Grain Trade

The Grains Market, an equally critical component of this initiative, offers a dedicated platform for farmers and traders to engage in the seamless exchange of grains.

By minimizing inefficiencies in the supply chain, reducing post-harvest losses, and fostering better market linkages, the market is set to increase incomes for farmers while attracting grain traders from across the nation. This positions Gombe as a vital hub for grain commerce in Nigeria.

Economic Impact and Job Creation

The ripple effects of the Ultra-Modern Abattoir and Grains Market on our economy are far-reaching. The project will generate direct and indirect employment opportunities in livestock production, grain farming, processing, and marketing.

This will, in turn, boost household incomes, enhance purchasing power, and stimulate economic activity across various sectors.

Moreover, the state government stands to gain significant revenue through taxes and fees, creating a financial pipeline to reinvest in critical sectors like education, healthcare, and infrastructure development. This initiative also opens the door to private sector investment, further solidifying Gombe State’s reputation as a business-friendly destination.

A Visionary Leadership for Prosperity

As the ALGON Chairman for Gombe State, I wholeheartedly commend Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya for his dynamic leadership and forward-thinking approach to governance.

His unwavering commitment to improving the lives of our citizens through impactful initiatives like this is worthy of emulation.

The Ultra-Modern Abattoir and Grains Market exemplify how visionary policies can serve as catalysts for growth and prosperity. It lays a robust foundation for sustained economic development while addressing the pressing needs of our farmers, traders, and investors.

A Call to Action

The success of this initiative depends on collective efforts. I call on all stakeholders citizens, farmers, traders, and investors to rally behind this transformative project.

By working together, we can harness its potential to create a brighter, more prosperous future for Gombe State, one where opportunities abound, and dreams are realized.

In conclusion, the Ultra-Modern Abattoir and Grains Market are more than just infrastructure projects; they are symbols of hope, progress, and the promise of a better tomorrow. With Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya’s visionary leadership, I am confident that Gombe State is on the path to unprecedented economic growth and development.

Let us seize this moment to build a state where prosperity is within reach for all, and the future shines brightly for generations to come.

By Our Correspondent

The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC Ltd) has dismissed reports of an explosion at the Port Harcourt Refining Company (PHRC) in Rivers State, clarifying that the incident was merely a flare event that has been fully contained.

In a press release issued on Tuesday, March 19, 2025, the company assured the public that there was no danger to refinery workers, nearby communities, or the environment.

NNPC Ltd. described the reports of an explosion as false and urged both the media and the general public to disregard them.

“There is no danger or health hazard to staff, the surrounding communities, or the environment,” said Olufemi O. Soneye, NNPC Ltd.’s Chief Corporate Communications Officer.

Flare events are routine occurrences in oil refining operations and typically involve the controlled burning of excess gases to maintain safe pressure levels. While such incidents may produce visible flames or noise, they do not pose the kind of risks associated with actual explosions.

The clarification comes amid growing concerns over safety at Nigeria’s refineries, especially as the government pushes for the full rehabilitation of the Port Harcourt refinery to boost local fuel production.

NNPC Ltd. reassured Nigerians of its commitment to operational safety and transparency, emphasizing that the situation at PHRC remains under control.