The Gombe State government has inaugurated its Human Capital Development Council, marking a significant step toward advancing the state’s socio-economic progress.
The inauguration ceremony was led by Deputy Governor Manassah Daniel Jatau, who also assumes the role of Chairman for the newly established council.
In his address, Deputy Governor Jatau emphasised the critical importance of human capital development in driving sustainable growth and improving the quality of life for residents. “The role of human capital development is fundamental to our progress,” Jatau stated. “It encompasses the development of skills, education, and opportunities that empower our people and fuel our state’s advancement.”
Jatau called upon the newly appointed members of the council to view their roles as a serious commitment to serving the state. “This appointment is not just an honour but a clarion call to dedicate yourselves to the service of Gombe State,” he said.
He urged the council members to work collaboratively and proactively to implement effective strategies that will enhance the state’s human resources.
The deputy governor enumerated the terms of reference to members of the council to include, develop and oversee the implementation of state specific HCD strategy and ensure alignment with National HCD goals and strategies,; to engage with key stakeholders including government agencies, private sectors, civil society, and development partners to mobilize HCD investment across the key thematic areas of education, health and labour force; and to monitor progress towards achieving HCD targets and outcomes across the thematic areas .
Others include , to evaluate the impact of HCD intervention and provide suitable recommendations for learning and best practices sharing; to provide regular reports to the state executive council on progress and challenges; to identify and mobilize resources to support HCD initiatives; to provide guidance and direction to the working group; to present the HCD strategy and work plan to the state executive for approval ; and to promote awareness and understanding of HCD initiatives among stakeholders and the public.
Presenting an overview of the programme, the State Focal Person on Human Capital Development and also the Special Adviser to the Governor on Development Partners Coordination Dr. Ishaku Babayo explained that the establishment of the Human Capital Development Council
seeks to address three thematic areas, including health and nutrition, education and labour force which shall be tackled in collaboration with the national and subnational governments and donor agencies.
