Monica Yahaya declares governorship ambition
A 33-year-old governorship aspirant on the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party, Monica Yahaya, has declared her intention to contest the 2027 governorship election in Gombe State.
She promised to focus on inclusive leadership, women empowerment, youth development, and grassroots growth if elected.
Yahaya made the declaration shortly after obtaining her nomination form at the PDP secretariat in Gombe on Tuesday.
Community service inspired political ambition
The aspirant said her work in community development motivated her decision to join the race.
According to her, years of engagement with rural women exposed her to challenges facing many communities across the state.
“I work closely with rural women, and that inspired my interest in leadership,” she said.
She explained that her goal is to create opportunities for women and young people in governance.
Aspirant promises stronger women representation
Yahaya stated that women deserve greater representation in leadership positions.
She argued that women have consistently shown strength and commitment in society.
“I see a leadership gap that needs to be closed,” she said.
She added that women can deliver positive results when given the chance to lead.
“If opportunity is given, Gombe people will see the difference,” she noted.
Youth empowerment remains key priority
The PDP aspirant also highlighted youth empowerment as one of her major priorities.
She stressed the importance of creating opportunities that keep young people productive and engaged.
According to her, empowering youths can help reduce social problems and unemployment.
“If youths stay busy, they will become more productive,” she said.
Support for women in politics grows
Yahaya expressed confidence over the growing support for female participation in politics across the state.
She noted that many women and men now support the idea of women holding leadership positions.
“People are asking for change, and the support has been encouraging,” she stated.
She added that women no longer want to remain silent in political matters.
PDP aspirant confident party will recover
Commenting on challenges facing the PDP nationally, Yahaya said she remains optimistic about the party’s future.
She expressed confidence that internal issues within the party would be resolved before the 2027 elections.
“We believe everything will soon be settled,” she said.
Women groups back ambition
The governorship hopeful disclosed that women groups, including the Gombe Women’s Agenda, are supporting her ambition.
She also revealed that female aspirants received waivers on nomination forms within the party.
According to her, women only need to pay for the expression of interest form.
Water supply among major concerns
Yahaya identified poor water supply as one of the major problems affecting residents of Gombe State.
She promised to improve access to clean water if elected governor.
“We know water remains a serious challenge in Gombe,” she said.
She explained that even wealthy residents sometimes struggle to access clean water.
Aspirant promises people-focused government
The PDP aspirant criticised the current level of women inclusion in governance within the state.
She promised to build a government that prioritises women, youths, and social welfare programmes.
“I will carry women along and ensure our girls and youths are protected,” she said.
Yahaya also claimed that her years in civil society work prepared her for leadership responsibilities.
She noted that her experience working directly with rural communities gave her a better understanding of the people’s needs.
