By Senator Ibrahim Gaidam
Today marks a remarkable milestone in our collective journey as a people, as we celebrate the 34th anniversary of the creation of Yobe State. This occasion is not only a moment of joy and thanksgiving but also a time for sober reflection on our history, our struggles, and the sacrifices that brought us this far.
As one who has been privileged to serve this state in various capacities — as Governor, as Senator, and now as Honourable Minister of Police Affairs — I feel a deep sense of gratitude to Almighty Allah for preserving us and guiding our progress through the years.
On this day, we remember with profound respect and affection our late leaders, heroes, and patriots who gave their all for the realization and growth of Yobe State. Many of them are no longer with us, but their legacies remain alive in our hearts and in the foundations of this great state. Their vision, sacrifices, and struggles built the stepping stones upon which we continue to advance. I pray that Almighty Allah grants them eternal rest and admits them into Jannatul Firdaus.
We also salute those who laboured tirelessly during the early days of statehood — our elders, traditional rulers, opinion leaders, public servants, and ordinary men and women — whose unity, courage, and resilience transformed the dream of Yobe into reality. Without their determination, the Yobe story would have remained untold.
History will forever remain kind to General Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida (Rtd.), the then President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, whose bold and visionary decision on August 27, 1991, gave birth to Yobe State. For this, we owe him enduring gratitude, for he gave our people a home, an identity, and the opportunity to shape their own destiny.
As we mark this 34th anniversary, I call on all sons and daughters of Yobe — at home and in the diaspora — to hold fast to the values of peaceful coexistence, tolerance, and unity. Our diversity should be our strength, not a source of division. Only in unity can we consolidate the progress we have made and overcome the challenges that confront us.
Over the years, Yobe has faced trials, especially in the areas of security, development, and social stability. Yet, the resilience of our people has remained unbroken. Together, we have withstood storms, and together we shall build a brighter tomorrow. Let us continue to invest in education, agriculture, healthcare, infrastructure, and human capital, for these are the pillars upon which our future must stand.
To the younger generation, I say: the responsibility of taking Yobe to greater heights lies with you. The dreams of our founding fathers must be carried forward with renewed zeal, innovation, and commitment to service. May you be the torchbearers of peace, unity, and development.
On this historic occasion, I reaffirm my personal commitment and that of the Ministry of Police Affairs to supporting policies that will strengthen peace and security in our state and across the nation. Security is the bedrock of progress, and only in an atmosphere of peace can development truly thrive.
As we celebrate Yobe @34, let us lift our voices in gratitude to Almighty Allah for His blessings, and in prayer for the continued growth and prosperity of our dear state. May He bless Yobe, protect our people, and crown our efforts with success.
Happy 34th Anniversary to the good people of Yobe State.
Senator Ibrahim Gaidam, CON is the
Honourable Minister of Police Affairs
