Global philanthropist and Chair of the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, Bill Gates, has praised Gombe State for its groundbreaking health sector reforms, describing the state’s approach as both “inspiring and results-driven.”
In a personal letter addressed to the State Government through the Executive Secretary of the Gombe State Contributory Healthcare Management Agency and the Chief Executive of Human Capital Managers Nigeria Limited, Gates lauded the state’s innovative leadership and commitment to improving health outcomes.
“I was impressed by Gombe’s problem-solving mindset and commitment to achieving results,” Gates wrote after a high-level meeting in Abuja.
He highlighted Gombe’s strong emphasis on stakeholder engagement and strategic governance, noting that such efforts have laid the foundation for the state’s measurable progress.
One initiative singled out for praise was the Human Resource for Health (HRH) biometric attendance platform, a locally developed digital solution designed to enhance accountability, improve staff attendance, and enable data-driven decision-making. Gates described the innovation as “a compelling example of a state-led initiative to optimise resources by leveraging real-time data.”
The philanthropist also applauded the Gombe team’s detailed demonstration during the Abuja meeting and pledged to follow the state’s progress closely.
“Your leadership and innovation are remarkable,” he stated.
According to the Gombe State Government, the recognition by Gates reaffirms its commitment to advancing Universal Health Coverage (UHC) through sustainable systems and innovative solutions.
Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya has consistently stressed his administration’s resolve to prioritise transparency, efficiency, and equitable access to quality healthcare. Through GoHealth and other relevant agencies, the state said it remains committed to strengthening collaborations with local and international partners to expand healthcare access and promote inclusive development.
