Visiting Gombe State? Read this Easy Guide to Gombe State, Nigeria
- Simon Zaku
- Dec 19, 2024
- 4 min read
Growing up in Taraba State, I often heard stories about Gombe State - the "Jewel in the Savannah."
Nestled in the northeastern region of Nigeria, Gombe holds a unique charm that blends natural beauty, rich history, and warm hospitality.
My first visit to Gombe was during one of my trips exploring neighboring states, and I was blown away by its peaceful atmosphere and breathtaking landscapes.
In this guide, I’ll take you through everything you need to know about Gombe State: its history, geography, culture, cost of living, popular places, and much more.
History of Gombe State
Gombe State was created on October 1, 1996, carved out of Bauchi State.
Named after the Gombe Emirate, it is one of Nigeria's younger states, yet its history dates back centuries.
The state is home to the Tangale and Fulani people, whose rich heritage continues to shape its culture and traditions.
Historically, Gombe played a role in the Sokoto Caliphate’s expansion in the 19th century.
The Gombe Emirate was founded in 1804 by Buba Yero, a Fulani warrior and follower of Usman Dan Fodio.
Geography and Location
Gombe is located in northeastern Nigeria and is bordered by:
Bauchi State (west)
Taraba State (south)
Adamawa State (southeast)
Borno State (northeast)
Yobe State (north)
The state covers an area of about 20,265 square kilometers. Its geographical features include:
Savannah Plains: Known for their lush greenery during the rainy season.
Gombe Hills: Offering scenic views and great for hiking.
Gongola River: A significant water body that supports agriculture and fishing.
Facts About Gombe State
Here are some key facts:
Capital: Gombe City
Nicknames: "Jewel in the Savannah"
Population: Over 3 million people
Languages: Hausa, Fulfulde, Tangale, Tera, Waja, and Kanuri
Major Ethnic Groups: Fulani, Tangale, Tera, Waja, and Kanuri
Religion: Predominantly Islam and Christianity, with traditional beliefs also practiced.
Life in Gombe State
Life in Gombe is a mix of rural simplicity and urban progress.
The people are known for their warmth and hospitality, and the state’s serene environment makes it a great place to live and visit.
Occupation: Agriculture dominates the economy, with residents growing crops like maize, millet, sorghum, and groundnuts. Livestock rearing is also common.
Community Spirit: Gombe people are highly communal, often coming together for celebrations, farming, and local events.
Cost of Living in Gombe State
Gombe offers a low cost of living compared to larger Nigerian cities.
Housing: Affordable, with decent options in both urban and rural areas.
Food: Locally grown produce makes food prices relatively low.
Transportation: Cheap and accessible, with tricycles ("Keke") and motorcycles ("Okada") being the most common modes of transport.
Popular Areas in Gombe State
Gombe City: The state capital, known for its bustling markets, government institutions, and cultural sites.
Kaltungo: Famous for its hills and traditional festivals.
Billiri: Home to the Tangale people, known for their unique culture.
Dukku: A rural area with a rich agricultural tradition.
Popular Restaurants and Hotels in Gombe State
Restaurants
Savannah Restaurant, Gombe City: Serves a mix of local and continental dishes.
G-City Kitchen: Popular for its traditional Nigerian meals.
Alhaji Mai Shayi Spot: For quick snacks like suya and masa.
Hotels
Gombe Jewel Hotel: Offers luxury accommodation in the heart of Gombe City.
Bajoga Motel: Budget-friendly with excellent services.
Tumfure Resort Hotel: Known for its serene environment.
Popular Places to Visit in Gombe State
Gombe Emir’s Palace: A historical site and residence of the Emir of Gombe.
Tangale Hills: A perfect spot for hiking and sightseeing.
Bima Hill: Offers breathtaking views of the savannah.
Dadinkowa Dam: A massive dam that supports irrigation, fishing, and hydroelectric power.
Wawa-Zange Grazing Reserve: The largest grazing reserve in Nigeria, covering over 200,000 hectares.
Past and Present Leaders of Gombe State
Since its creation, Gombe State has been governed by a series of administrators and governors.
The current governor, as of 2024, is Muhammad Inuwa Yahaya, who has focused on infrastructure, education, and healthcare.
Mineral Resources in Gombe State
Gombe is rich in natural resources, including:
Limestone
Gypsum
Coal
Uranium
Kaolin
(Considering exporting some of these to your Country? Contact IBIFoundry)
These resources make it a hub for mining and industrial activities.
Languages Spoken in Gombe State, Nigeria
The state is linguistically diverse, with Hausa serving as the lingua franca. Other widely spoken languages include:
Fulfulde
Tangale
Tera
Waja
Kanuri
Gombe State - Neighboring States
Gombe shares borders with five states, making it a strategic location for trade and cultural exchange.
Bauchi State (west)
Adamawa State (southeast)
Taraba State (south)
Yobe State (north)
Borno State (northeast)
Cultural Festivals in Gombe State
Gombe is home to vibrant cultural festivals that showcase its rich heritage. Notable ones include:
Tangale Cultural Festival: Celebrates the history and traditions of the Tangale people.
Wurba Festival: A colorful event featuring dances, music, and traditional attire.
Gombe Day Durbar: A horse-riding parade held at the Emir’s Palace.
Education in Gombe State
The state has several educational institutions, including:
Gombe State University: Located in Tudun Wada, Gombe City.
Federal College of Education (Technical), Gombe: Focuses on teacher training.
Gombe State Polytechnic: Offers technical and vocational training.
Conclusion - Visit Gombe with IBIFoundry!
Gombe State truly lives up to its nickname as the "Jewel in the Savannah."
From its rich cultural heritage to its breathtaking landscapes, there’s so much to explore and experience.
Whether you’re visiting for business, leisure, or simply passing through, Gombe offers a warm and unforgettable experience.
So, the next time you’re planning a trip in northeastern Nigeria, don’t forget to include Gombe State on your itinerary!
Until next time,
Simon Taki Zaku,
Founder, CEO, IbiFoundry.com.ng
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