Democracy & Governance
Silence Where It Matters: Bauchi’s Misplaced Priorities and Forgotten People -By Yasir Shehu Adam
A governor’s speech should reflect actual priorities. When basic human development sectors are absent from key policy messages, citizens have every right to question direction.
The people of Bauchi are watching — not just listening. They see the lack of textbooks in schools, the shortages in clinics, and the idle youth with degrees but no jobs. These are not mere complaints — they are the everyday realities of life in Bauchi State.
New Year speeches are meant to comfort, inspire, and set clear priorities for the year ahead. They are moments when governors tell citizens what will be done to improve their lives. But in the recent New Year message from the Bauchi State Governor, something vital was missing — clear attention to education, healthcare, and youth development.
These are not minor sectors. They are the pillars of human development and peace. Yet, in a speech filled with general words, there was no strong plan, no strategy, and no reassurance for the millions of Bauchi people who depend on those basics every day.
Education Still in Pain
Walk into many public schools in Bauchi — like Saleh Manga Primary School in Bauchi Town, where pupils sit on broken benches because there aren’t enough chairs. Go to Government Day Secondary School, Maraban Liman katagum, where leaking roofs replace proper classrooms, and students study in discomfort through both rain and harmattan dust.
Education, which can pull young people out of poverty, was not given the attention it deserves. A New Year speech that ignores the future of children shows a government that has forgotten its own families.
Healthcare: A Struggle for Survival
In rural areas like Tashan Babiye primary Health Centre, simple medicines often run out. Pregnant women make long journeys to Abubakar Tafawa Balewa Teaching Hospital, only to find overcrowded wards and few nurses on duty. Even the famous Yelwan Makaranta primary healthcare Hospital lacks modern equipment for basic childbirth services.
Healthcare is not a luxury — it is a right. Yet in the New Year message, there was no clear direction or strong commitment to fix these problems. For many families, this silence is a loud disappointment.
Youth: Idle, Overlooked, and Unemployed
Bauchi has one of the largest youth populations in the North, yet unemployment remains high. Many young graduates from Bauchi State University, Gadau wander the streets without jobs. Skilled youth in places like Zaki LGA and Warji LGA lack access to skills training, business loans, or meaningful opportunities to start small enterprises.
Youth development programs deserve serious attention. Yet the New Year address offered no solid plan, no specific intervention, no youth focus at all. When youth are ignored, frustration grows — and social problems begin to take seed.
Tax Reforms Without Protective Response
At the same time, Nigeria’s new tax reforms are placing indirect pressure on citizens. In a region where most traders are in markets such as Tashan Biri and Madaras, and where many farmers sell produce informally, tax reforms without protective state support can deepen hardship.
It is understandable that the federal government seeks revenue. But when the state leadership does nothing to cushion the impact — especially on the poor and youth — silence becomes a policy of neglect.
Leadership Is Not Just Words
A governor’s speech should reflect actual priorities. When basic human development sectors are absent from key policy messages, citizens have every right to question direction.
The people of Bauchi are watching — not just listening. They see the lack of textbooks in schools, the shortages in clinics, and the idle youth with degrees but no jobs. These are not mere complaints — they are the everyday realities of life in Bauchi State.
As the 2027 elections approach, Bauchi citizens must think carefully. Party loyalty should no longer guide votes. Instead, voters should ask:
What has this candidate actually done in previous roles?
– How many youths benefited from real support — scholarships, jobs,
skills training?
– What meaningful improvements were made to schools and hospitals?
Leadership is measured by action, not empty words.
A Call to Bauchi People
Every citizen must now demand leaders who show:
✔ Clear plans for education reform.
✔ Real investment in healthcare services.
✔ Strong policies for youth development.
✔ Programs that empower people to work, not just survive.
Bauchi needs leaders who act on priorities, not overlook them.
The future of Bauchi — and the hope of its people — depends on citizens who vote not for party, but for credibility, capability, and compassion.
Yasir Shehu Adam (Dan Liman) Journalist and writer from Bauchi.
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