THE Gombe State Chapter of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) has commended Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya, CON, for his unprecedented investment in the judiciary, describing it as a “historic turnaround” in the state’s judicial infrastructure.
The commendation followed an inspection visit by the NBA executive council to the ongoing multi-billion-naira Gombe State High Court Complex and the newly completed Sharia Court of Appeal in Gombe.
Speaking during the visit, the NBA Chairman, Alhassan Mu’azu, expressed delight over the quality and scale of the ongoing project of Gombe State High Court Complex, noting that upon completion, the facility will significantly enhance judicial efficiency and service delivery in the state.
“Since the creation of Gombe State, this level of development in the judiciary has never been witnessed. With Governor Inuwa Yahaya’s foresight and commitment, the judiciary is now getting the same attention as the executive, with a befitting and conducive environment to deliver justice effectively,” Mu’azu stated.
He described the governor’s intervention as a bold step toward correcting decades of neglect, saying that an improved working environment will boost morale, enhance productivity, and strengthen the rule of law.
“When judges operate from dilapidated or rented structures, efficiency suffers. But with these new modern complexes, justice will not only be served but also seen to be served in dignity and comfort,” he added.
Conducting the NBA delegation around the High Court construction site, the project consultant, Architect Imeh Umoh, explained the key components of the complex and assured that work is progressing according to schedule, with completion targeted for January 2027.
He disclosed that the Gombe State High Court Complex consists of three floors housing 12 courtrooms, a ceremonial courtroom, judges’ chambers, offices, a law library, holding cells, and other ancillary facilities including a car park, water supply system, and power generators.
At the newly completed Sharia Court of Appeal, the NBA officials were received by the Chief Registrar, Barrister Ibrahim Usman Jibrin, who expressed gratitude to Governor Inuwa Yahaya for reviving and completing the project after it was abandoned for over 13 years.
The registrar, however, appealed for the appointment of additional Khadis to decongest pending cases and improve the speed of justice delivery.
The NBA Chairman explained that the visit also aimed at strengthening the cordial relationship between the Bar and the Bench, emphasizing that adequate office accommodation and a serene working atmosphere are vital for the effective dispensation of justice.
“We were highly impressed by what we saw; the massive structures, the quality of work, and the governor’s commitment to judicial independence.
When completed, Gombe will rank among the states with the most modern and functional judicial complexes in Nigeria,” Mu’azu remarked.
He commended the Inuwa-led administration for ensuring that all arms of government operate in a conducive and well-structured environment, describing it as a reflection of good governance and visionary leadership.
