Image caption: The Soun, Gomne state governor, Alhaji Inuwa Yahaya and Emir Gombe, Dr Abubakar Shehu Abubakar
MEMORABLE: Major highlights of Soun’s visit to Gombe – ‘We’ll reciprocate your goodwill,’ Gov enthuses (PHOTOS)
Femi OGUNLANA
Advertisement
Oba Ghandi Afolabi Olaoye Orumogege III the Soun of Ogbomosoland, has rounded off his memorable visit to Gombe state in the northeastern part of Nigeria.
It’s a visit highly anticipated but beyond expectation, Oba Olaoye has described it so.
It was initially to meet with the Ogbomoso indigenes residing in Gombe state and in all northeastern region of the country for confabulations on how they could drive development in their homeland but it unfolded in a most exceeding form, encompassing laying of foundation for future collaborations between Gombe state and the city of Ogbomoso and Oyo state at large.
“This visit has rekindled the historic bond between Gombe and Ogbomoso in Oyo state. Be assured that we will reciprocate this goodwill in due course,” Gombe state governor, Alhaji Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya stated during a courtesy visit to his office by the Soun, underscoring how valuable the visit was considered by the state.
Governor Inuwa Yahaya had spoken against the backdrop of the general impression of high level insecurity prevailing in the northeastern region, which he noted Soun overlooked to come.
A recap of the visit and what was said
The arrival on Monday February 3 expectedly took place in an ambience of conviviality, a cultural atmosphere pervaded the arena as the paramount ruler of Ogbomoso was received by the respected Oba Yoruba of Gombe, Alhaji Jima Alao Yusuf, and others.
“My arrival in Gombe on Monday was met with an overwhelming warmth and hospitality that made me feel right at home. From the moment I stepped off the plane, the joy and excitement that filled the atmosphere were a powerful reminder that our heritage and leadership extend far beyond Ogbomosoland,” Soun recalls while reminiscing over the ceremony.”
The next day, Tuesday, he participated in a town hall meeting hosted by Ogbomoso sons and daughters in the state and beyond. The occasion held at the Federal College of Education (Technical), Gombe, was apposite for the presentation of the Oba’s exciting and ambitious 25 year-development plan for Ogbomoso, which he did and was received with great enthusiasm. At the end, his hosts expressed great admiration and willingness to support the initiative.
The Oba flashing back to the event writes in a post, “At yesterday’s Town Hall meeting, I had the privilege of presenting the 25-Year Vision for Ogbomosoland—an ambitious roadmap to transform our homeland into a model city, one that will make future generations proud. This vision is not the task of one person alone; it requires the collective effort of all sons and daughters of Ogbomosoland.
“I encouraged those present to come home, invest, and contribute to the transformation of Ogbomoso, as our city is fast becoming a prime destination with boundless opportunities. The call to action is clear: our progress depends on our unity, commitment, and strategic investments.
“I extend my deepest gratitude to the Gombe State Government for their warm hospitality and to the Executive Chairman of Gombe Town and its wonderful people for fostering an atmosphere of peace and unity.
“To all Ogbomoso sons and daughters in the diaspora, your resilience and impact continue to inspire. As we thrive across different parts of the world, let us also unite to uplift our homeland. By strengthening our collaboration and deepening our investments, we will drive Ogbomoso towards its full potential.
“A special appreciation goes to the Oba Yoruba of Gombe, representatives from various Yoruba communities, as well as our Igbo, Edo, and other Nigerian brothers and sisters who honored this gathering. Your presence underscores the power of unity and shared progress.
“I am not just encouraged—I am deeply excited about the future of Ogbomosoland. Together, we will shape it.
“Let’s build. Let’s invest. Let’s take Ogbomoso to the world!”
Also, the Oba made a historic visit to the Northeastern University, Gombe, where he met with the Vice Chancellor, Professor Yusuph Amuda Yahaya, and other management members during which he toured the university to assess the facilities and gain valuable experiences.
“My visit to Northeastern University, Gombe, was both insightful and inspiring. I toured various departments, including Allied Health Sciences, Science and Computing, Communication, Management and Social Sciences, and Law, followed by a brief but meaningful discussion with the university’s management, led by Vice-Chancellor Professor Yusuph Amuda Yahaya.
“I was deeply impressed by the vision of the university’s founders and the significant investment in creating a world-class learning environment. Excellence was evident in every aspect of the campus.
“In my remarks, I emphasized that the success of any institution depends on leadership, urging the Vice-Chancellor to lead with purpose and integrity. I also encouraged the staff to remain dedicated, knowing their commitment shapes not only students’ futures but also the progress of the society. When vision-driven leadership meets passionate teamwork, excellence is inevitable.”
The memorable trip similarly saw His Majesty being received by a former governor of Gombe state. Senator Ibrahim Hassan Dankwambo, who hosted him at his residence. They were old friends who shared sweet memories.
“It was a pleasure to be hosted by my dear friend, His Excellency, Senator Ibrahim Hassan Dankwambo, former Governor of Gombe State. His hospitality was exceptional—a true reflection of his warmth, generosity, and statesmanship,” Soun recollected in another post.
“As we reminisced and shared stories, I was reminded of the power of friendship, leadership, and a shared vision. Moments like these reaffirm the lasting bonds we build—bonds anchored in mutual respect, service, and a commitment to the progress of our communities.
“Gombe holds special memories for me, and tonight, I have added yet another to the collection. Thank you, Senator Dankwambo, for your kindness and camaraderie. True friendships endure, and meaningful connections remain invaluable.”
Not unexpectedly, he also visited the Emir of Gombe, Dr Abubakar Shehu Abubakar III CFR, who is the Chairman of the Gombe State Council of Emirs and Chiefs.
The Emir enthusiastically described Oba Olaoye’s visit as a significant step towards bolstering the age-long relationship between the people of Gombe and Ogbomoso, which he noted was fomented through deep-rooted trade, economic ties and intermarriages.
“Social relationships flourish when people from different ethnic and religious backgrounds embrace one another as one. The presence of Your Majesty in Gombe today is a testament to our shared history and commitment to unity,” the Emir said.
On his run in at the Government House, His Majesty states, “This afternoon, I had the honor of visiting His Excellency, Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya, in the esteemed company of His Royal Highness, the Emir of Gombe, Alh. Dr. Abubakar Shehu Abubakar III, CFR.
“From the moment I arrived, I felt the warmth of Gombe’s hospitality—an experience marked by an impeccable reception, a deep sense of security, and an overwhelming spirit of unity. Gombe truly made me feel at home, and for that, I am deeply grateful.
“I extend my heartfelt appreciation to the Deputy Governor, the Speaker of the House, the Secretary to the State Government, the Chief of Staff, and all esteemed members of the cabinet for their warm reception. Your presence reflects the greatness of this state.
“A special acknowledgment goes to the Emir of Gombe, whose wisdom and generosity left a lasting impression. Though we only just met, it feels as if I have known him forever.
“I also recognize my chief host, the Oba of Yoruba in Gombe, as well as my dear sons and daughters of Ogbomoso who welcomed me so warmly. It is always a joy to be among my people.
“Before coming here, I had expectations, but Gombe has exceeded them all. It stands as one of Nigeria’s most peaceful states, with a clear emphasis on security and unity.
Advertisement
“One profound lesson I take away from the Emir of Gombe is his guiding philosophy:
“We do not see people for what they are; we see each other as one big family.”
‘This is a lesson for all of Nigeria—if we embrace one another beyond tribe, religion, and background, we can build a nation where everyone belongs, everyone is valued, and everyone thrives.
“Gombe is not just peaceful—it is safe, clean, and incredibly welcoming. I have come, I have seen, and I can boldly say: Gombe is a beacon of unity in Nigeria.
“And as they say, I will be back.”
Praising the government of Gombe for its commitment to promoting unity among diverse ethnic and religious groups, the Soun emphasized the model of governance in Gombe is one that Nigeria as a whole should adopt.
He made this comment at the Government House during which he also commended the level of development in the state and thus promising to personally invest in the state.
“I took a walk at night to see things for myself across major streets of Gombe metropolis, and what I saw was remarkable. Even in Ogbomoso, we do not have such beautiful streetlights. Gombe is clean, peaceful, and safe.
“We do not work at night in Ogbomoso because of darkness, but with what I have seen here, I am inspired. I assure you that I will move one of my companies to Gombe State to contribute to its thriving economy.
“I am leaving today, but I will certainly return in a significant way to give back to both my subjects and the people of Gombe.”
Governor Inuwa Yahaya responding, attributed the peaceful atmosphere in Gombe to the strong social fabric that binds its diverse communities together.
He explained that the state’s cosmopolitan nature has made it a melting pot of ethnic and religious groups over the years.
“Our strategic location in the Northeast has attracted people from various backgrounds, and our peaceful coexistence has significantly boosted our economy. The Yoruba community, in particular, has made invaluable contributions to our state’s economic growth.’
While acknowledging the courage of Oba Olaoye in making the visit in disregard of the misleading narratives about the northeast the governor remarked, “As a dogged leader, you defied discouraging impressions and fulfilled your promise of coming to Gombe. This visit has rekindled the historic bond between Gombe and Ogbomoso in Oyo State. Be assured that we will reciprocate this goodwill in due course.”
