Yola, the Adamawa state capital, has been hitherto a medium sized city with traditional architecture and infratructures put in place since 1976 when the town was made the capital of the defunct Gongola state. The last time the town had a major facelift and to some extent, expansion was around 1997 when Jonah Jang was holding sway. This is until Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri happened on the scene and decided to take the capital into the 21st century. His administration spearheaded a significant infrastructural transformation in Adamawa State since 2019, leading to substantial socio-economic advancements.
Infrastructure Development Highlights
1. Urban Renewal Projects
Yola and Jimeta Flyovers: The construction of the state’s first flyovers and underpasses has alleviated traffic congestion, enhanced urban aesthetics, and improved road safety. These structures have also contributed to flood mitigation through integrated drainage systems.
Jimeta Ultra-Modern Shopping Complex: A ₦19.7 billion project aimed at boosting economic activities and attracting investors. The construction of the complex is expected to create jobs across various sectors of the economy and upon completion. The Jimeta Shopping Complex was looking more like a refugee camp before it was pulled down to make way for an Ultra Modern Mall, complete with amenities and facilities.
2. Road and Bridge Construction
Hundreds of kilometers of roads and bridges have been constructed or rehabilitated, enhancing connectivity between rural and urban areas. This development facilitates easier access to markets, healthcare, and educational institutions. Being an agrarian state, the importance of these interconnecting roads cannot be over emphasised. There were many communities that were inaccessible before now, which are open-up for commerce with the construction/ rehabilitation of roads linking these communities to the outside world. This also eases the evacuation of agric products to urban areas.
3.Yola Specialists Hospital
Acquisition of Advanced Diagnostic Equipment
In April 2025, the state government procured and installed a modern Computed Tomography (CT) scan machine at Yola Specialist Hospital. This initiative aims to improve diagnostic capabilities, reducing the need for patients to travel long distances for such services.
2. Establishment of a State-of-the-Art Laboratory Complex
A new laboratory complex has been constructed within Yola Specialist Hospital, enhancing its capacity to conduct advanced medical tests and improving overall healthcare delivery.
3. Water and Sanitation Improvements
The Jimeta and Yola water treatment plants have been upgraded, along with the provision of new boreholes in rural areas, to improve access to clean and safe drinking water for residents. The administration is redoubling its efforts in ensuring water is available to citizens for drinking and hygiene.
Economic Impact
1. Investment and Economic Value
The quantum of money that has been invested in infrastructure since 2019 is humongous, so is the result. The economic impact of these investments is estimated at trillions, with benefits projected to extend until 2039. This is a result of a deliberate planning by the government and not just a knee-jerk reaction to infrastructural deficit.
2. Job Creation and Local Economy Boost
Infrastructure projects have generated employment opportunities in construction, retail, and services. The modernization of markets, including twelve cattle markets, has improved the business environment for traders and consumers alike. This, in turn, expands revenue basket for the state.
3. Property Value Appreciation
Areas surrounding new infrastructural developments, such as flyovers and underpasses, have experienced significant increases in property values, attracting real estate investments. Therefore, individuals with properties around these areas are also going to benefit from the appreciation in the value of properties around the modernised infrastructures.
Socio-Economic Advancements
1. Enhanced Access to Services
Improved infrastructure has facilitated better access to essential services, including healthcare and education, thereby elevating the standard of living for residents.
2. Tourism and Urban Appeal
The infrastructural facelift, particularly in Yola and Jimeta, has enhanced the cities’ appeal, making them more attractive to tourists and investors. With the anticipated completion of the rehabilitation of the Yola International Hotel and the completion of the Jimeta Stadium, the interests of people seeking for recreation or entertaiment will be ably catered for. Not forgetting the youth, of course, who may be the primary beneficiaries of the Stadium completion.
3. Environmental and Health Benefits
The integration of modern drainage systems in infrastructural projects has mitigated flooding issues, leading to improved public health outcomes. Governor Fintiri’s infrastructural initiatives have not only modernized Adamawa State’s physical landscape but have also catalyzed economic growth, improved living standards, and positioned the state as a model for sustainable development in Nigeria.
The modernisation revolution has now shifted into full speed and still has two more years to go. It is very clear that nowhere will be left untouched by the end of the administration.
