Pix: Dr. Jamilu Jafaru receiving the award on behalf of Gombe governor

Gombe State has been honoured with the prestigious 2026 Nigeria’s Most Secure State Excellence Award, a recognition that underscores the state’s remarkable achievements in maintaining peace, stability, and public safety under the leadership of Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya.

The award was presented at the 2026 People’s Security Monitor Annual Security Summit and Award Ceremony held in Abuja, where security experts, policymakers, military leaders, and stakeholders gathered to celebrate outstanding contributions to national security and public safety across Nigeria.

Representing Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya at the event, the Director-General of the Federal Government Liaison Office, Dr. Jamilu Jafaru, described the award as a testament to the governor’s unwavering commitment to protecting lives and property. He noted that Gombe State has become a model of peace and security in the North-East region through proactive governance, strategic security investments, and effective collaboration with security agencies.

Dr. Jafaru said Governor Yahaya’s administration has consistently prioritised security as a cornerstone of development, resulting in a peaceful environment that has attracted investors, enhanced economic activities, and strengthened public confidence. According to him, the governor’s dedication to sustaining peace has distinguished Gombe as one of the safest states in the country despite prevailing security challenges in parts of the region.

Speaking further, he commended the governor for fostering strong partnerships with the military, police, intelligence agencies, traditional institutions, and community leaders, stressing that the collective approach has significantly contributed to preventing crime and maintaining social harmony across the state. He added that Gombe’s security architecture has continued to deliver positive results through intelligence-driven operations and community engagement initiatives.

Dr. Jafaru also highlighted the administration’s investments in logistics support for security agencies, youth empowerment programmes, and conflict-prevention mechanisms, which he said have helped address the root causes of insecurity. He reaffirmed the state’s commitment to sustaining the gains already achieved while remaining vigilant against emerging security threats.

Receiving the award on behalf of Governor Yahaya, Dr. Jafaru expressed appreciation to the organisers for recognising the efforts of the Gombe State Government. He dedicated the honour to the people of Gombe and all security personnel serving in the state, pledging that the administration would continue to pursue policies and programmes that promote peace, security, and sustainable development for the benefit of all citizens.