Baule District, Tula Chiefdom of Gombe State: A respectful appeal for inclusive development

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The Baule District, one of the three constituent districts of the historic Tula Chiefdom in Kaltungo Local Government Area of Gombe State, occupies an important place in the history of Southern Gombe. The Tula Chiefdom served as the first headquarters of the former Tangale–Waja Native Authority during the colonial period before the administrative headquarters was later relocated. Today, that historical legacy continues through the communities that make up Kaltungo, Billiri, Balanga and Shongom Local Government Areas.

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The people of the Baule District acknowledge and appreciate the developmental strides of the Government of Gombe State under the leadership of Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya, particularly in the provision of roads and other public infrastructure across many parts of the State. This article is therefore written in the spirit of partnership and constructive engagement rather than criticism.

Blessed with fertile agricultural land, hardworking people, rich cultural heritage and enormous agricultural potential, the Baule District has remained a dependable contributor to food production, peaceful coexistence and democratic governance. Election after election, the people have demonstrated their commitment to the democratic process and to the continued peace and progress of Gombe State.

Despite these contributions, access to the Baule Districtremains a major development challenge. Community records, field observations and documentary evidence collected between 2024 and 2026 reveal that several strategic road corridors—including the Ture–Bule–Kaltin–Lafiya–Lungure, Dogon Ruwa–Nahuta–Kaltin, Baule Gari–Bundibunde–Sabon Gari–Dogon Ruwa, and Bule–Kaltin–Jalingo routes—continue to experience serious accessibility challenges, particularly during the rainy season. These roads are lifelines for farming communities, schoolchildren, healthcare workers, traders and traditional institutions.

The history of these roads also reflects the resilience of the Baule people. For decades, residents have organised community labour to clear road alignments, repair damaged sections, construct temporary crossings and improve access with their own limited resources. Documentary photographs and videos from 2024 and 2025 illustrate these remarkable self-help initiatives. While these efforts deserve recognition, permanent roads, bridges and drainage infrastructure require sustained public investment and engineering expertise beyond the capacity of local communities or the local government council.

The development needs of the Baule District extend beyond transportation. Evidence gathered during this study also highlights the need for continued investment in education, healthcare, potable water, rural electrification, tourism and other essential public services. Improving these sectors will enhance agricultural productivity, expand economic opportunities, improve access to markets and strengthen the quality of life across the District.

The study also examines the representation of qualified sons and daughters of the Baule District in strategic public appointments since the creation of Gombe State. Inclusive governance is strengthened when every community has a fair opportunity to contribute its experience, competence and leadership to public service. Continued commitment to merit, equity and balanced representation will further strengthen public confidence and social cohesion.

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Recognising current fiscal realities, the Baule Community respectfully proposes that, where immediate construction of every planned road may not be feasible, priority consideration be given to providing at least one all-season access route linking the District to the wider road network. Such an intervention would improve access to hospitals, schools, markets and government services while supporting agricultural development and emergency response.

This appeal is not intended to diminish the achievements recorded elsewhere in Gombe State, nor is it directed against any previous or present administration. Rather, it is a sincere invitation to the Federal Government of Nigeria, Gombe State Government, the North-East Development Commission, elected representatives, development partners and all stakeholders to work with the Baule Community in addressing longstanding infrastructure needs through constructive dialogue and evidence-based planning to renew the people’s hope.

The Baule District seeks neither privilege nor special treatment. It seeks what every community desire: safe roads, quality education, accessible healthcare, inclusive governance and a fair opportunity to contribute to the continued progress of Gombe State.

For when every community is connected, empowered and included, Gombe State grows stronger together.

*Yusuf Dauda Sukukum,

Matawallen Baule