Gombe unveils 4th phase of GO-CARES to transform 570,000 lives 

To alleviate poverty and promote inclusive growth, Gombe state government  Tuesday officially launched the 4th phase of its COVID-19 Action Recovery and Economic Stimulus (GO-CARES) program, targeting over 573,000 vulnerable citizens.

The chairman of the State Coordinating Technical Committee (SCTC) and Commissioner for Budget and Economic Planning, Mr. Salihu Baba Alkali, stated this while speaking during the flag-off held at Amada village in Akko local government.

He stated that the program’s mission is to support the state’s poor, vulnerable groups, young entrepreneurs, and rural farmers.

“Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya, under whose directive the program was designed, continues to prioritise poverty reduction and economic empowerment in his administration,” he said.

The chairman said out of the 573,429 beneficiaries, 152,429 individuals will receive direct assistance, such as agricultural inputs, cash grants and business support.

He added that 421,000 others will benefit from community-focused infrastructure projects, including the construction of classrooms, healthcare centres, water facilities, and the rehabilitation of rural roads and dams.

Highlighting the initiative’s impact, the commissioner pointed out the benefits for Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) and the boost to agricultural productivity.

“This phase will not only empower individuals but also enhance economic activities across the state,” he said.

Mr. Baba Alkali said the present administration aims to significantly reduce poverty, improve IT penetration, and foster long-term economic growth through GO-CARES. The program’s 4th phase is expected to be transformative for Gombe’s underserved communities, providing critical resources to help residents thrive.