In a significant move to accelerate development, the Yobe State Government has officially established three new Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs). Governor Mai Mala Buni approved the creation of these bodies to directly improve infrastructure, healthcare, and power supply across all 17 Local Government Areas of the state.
Three Strategic Agencies for State Development
The Director General of Press and Media Affairs to the Governor, Mamman Mohammed, announced the new MDAs on Thursday, December 25, 2025, in Damaturu. He revealed that the newly formed agencies are the Yobe State Rural Electrification Commission (YREC), the Yobe State Agency for Drugs and Rehabilitation (YADR), and the Yobe State Urban Development Agency (YUDA).
This strategic expansion brings the total number of MDAs in Yobe State to 23, all focused on delivering essential public services, including to communities along the border with the Niger Republic.
Focus on Power, Health, and Urban Planning
Each new agency has a clear and critical mandate. The Yobe State Rural Electrification Commission (YREC) is tasked with expanding electricity access to rural and underserved areas. Its mission involves connecting these communities to the national grid and deploying renewable energy solutions. This initiative is expected to stimulate socio-economic activities, improve security, and enhance the overall quality of life for residents.
To address a growing public health concern, the Yobe State Agency for Drugs and Rehabilitation (YADR) will lead the fight against drug abuse and substance dependency. It will implement coordinated programs focused on prevention, treatment, rehabilitation, and the reintegration of affected individuals into society. Mamman Mohammed emphasized that this health agency will also strengthen public health systems, support youth development, and promote social stability.
Meanwhile, the Yobe State Urban Development Agency (YUDA) will provide a structured framework for the state's urban growth. Its responsibilities include overseeing orderly infrastructure development, environmental management, and sustainable urban planning in line with modern standards and best practices.
Massive Scholarship Increase for Over 28,000 Students
In a related development supporting education, the Yobe State Government has commenced the disbursement of scholarships and bursaries for the 2025/2026 academic session. The beneficiaries are 28,346 eligible students from the state.
In a remarkable show of support, Governor Buni approved a 100 per cent increase in the scholarship payments for this year. This increment is a direct response to the prevailing economic realities and the rising cost of education in Nigeria.
Dr. Kagu Abubakar, the Executive Secretary of the Yobe State Scholarship Board (YOSB), disclosed the new rates on Friday in Damaturu while representing the Governor. He described the administration's intervention as one of the most significant of its kind by any state government since 2001.
The revised scholarship and bursary awards are as follows:
- Postgraduate students will now receive ₦110,000, up from ₦55,000 per session.
- Undergraduate students are awarded ₦46,000.
- Students pursuing HND, NCE, and National Diploma programmes will get ₦34,000, doubled from the previous ₦17,000.
- Those in other Diploma and Certificate programmes will receive ₦26,000, increased from ₦13,000.
This comprehensive initiative by the Buni administration targets infrastructural development and human capital growth, aiming to create a more prosperous and secure future for all citizens of Yobe State.
