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• Muna Tengi
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Cost Of Living In Gombe State

Gombe State, often referred to as the "Jewel in the Savannah," is located in the northeastern part of Nigeria. Bordered by states like Borno, Yobe, Bauchi, Taraba, and Adamawa, Gombe occupies a strategic position in the northeastern geopolitical zone. Known for its rich cultural heritage, warm hospitality, and rapidly growing economy, Gombe State has become an appealing destination for individuals and businesses alike. Understanding the cost of living in Gombe is essential for prospective residents, investors, and travelers. This blog post provides a comprehensive overview of the cost of living in Gombe State by exploring housing, transportation, food, healthcare, education, utilities, and other essential expenses.

1. Housing Costs

Housing in Gombe State is one of the most significant expenses for residents. However, compared to major urban centers in Nigeria such as Lagos, Abuja, or Port Harcourt, housing in Gombe remains relatively affordable.

• Urban Areas: Gombe City, the state capital, is the urban hub and commercial center of the state. It is where most government institutions, businesses, and infrastructure are concentrated. The cost of housing in Gombe City can vary based on location, size, and type of accommodation. Renting a one-bedroom apartment in the city center can range between ₦150,000 to ₦300,000 annually. In more upscale areas or newer developments, the price for a two or three-bedroom apartment could be between ₦300,000 and ₦700,000 per year. Most landlords in the city request payment upfront for one or two years, a common practice in Nigeria.

• Rural Areas: Outside Gombe City, in smaller towns and rural areas like Kaltungo, Billiri, or Dukku, the cost of housing is significantly lower. One can rent a modest one-bedroom apartment or a traditional house for as little as ₦50,000 to ₦100,000 per year. Many people in rural areas own their homes or live in traditional compounds, reducing the need for monthly or annual rent payments.

• Buying Property: For individuals looking to purchase property in Gombe, the cost depends on the location and type of land. A plot of land in a prime area of Gombe City could cost anywhere from ₦1 million to ₦5 million, while land in more suburban or rural areas can be acquired for ₦200,000 to ₦500,000 per plot.

2. Transportation

Gombe State is well connected by road, and the capital city has a relatively well-organized transportation network. Public transportation is readily available, and the cost of commuting within Gombe is generally affordable.

• Public Transport: In Gombe City, the most common forms of public transportation include motorcycles (okadas), tricycles (keke napep), taxis, and minibuses. A short trip within the city using a tricycle or motorcycle typically costs between ₦50 to ₦200, depending on the distance. Taxis are slightly more expensive, with fares ranging between ₦200 to ₦500 for trips across the city.

• Private Vehicles: For residents who prefer the convenience of private vehicles, the cost of owning and maintaining a car in Gombe is relatively manageable. Fuel prices are usually in line with the national average, ranging from ₦200 to ₦300 per liter. The cost of vehicle maintenance, including spare parts and servicing, is also reasonable, with mechanics and auto workshops readily available in Gombe City.

• Intercity Transport: Traveling from Gombe to other states in Nigeria is affordable and accessible, with bus transport companies offering daily services. A trip from Gombe to neighboring cities such as Bauchi, Yola, or Jos can cost between ₦2,000 to ₦5,000, depending on the distance and type of vehicle.

• Gombe Airport: Gombe also boasts an international airport, which serves as a major transportation hub for the region. Flights to major Nigerian cities such as Lagos, Abuja, and Port Harcourt are available, with ticket prices varying based on the time of booking and airline. Domestic flight tickets typically range from ₦30,000 to ₦60,000 for one-way trips.

3. Food and Groceries

The cost of food in Gombe State is relatively affordable, especially compared to Nigeria’s southern states. This is largely due to the agricultural abundance of the region. Gombe is known for producing crops like maize, millet, rice, groundnuts, and vegetables, which contribute to lower food prices.

• Staples: Common Nigerian staples such as rice, beans, yam, and maize are widely available at local markets and supermarkets. A 50kg bag of rice costs between ₦30,000 and ₦40,000, while a 50kg bag of beans can range from ₦40,000 to ₦60,000, depending on the season. Maize, millet, and other grains are cheaper, with prices for a bag ranging between ₦10,000 and ₦25,000.

• Protein: Meat, poultry, and fish are moderately priced in Gombe. A kilogram of beef typically costs ₦2,500 to ₦3,500, while chicken costs between ₦2,000 and ₦4,000 per bird, depending on size. Fish, both fresh and dried, is widely available and relatively affordable due to the state’s proximity to rivers and lakes. Fresh fish costs around ₦1,500 to ₦2,500 per kilogram, while dried fish may cost slightly more.

• Vegetables and Fruits: Locally grown vegetables such as tomatoes, onions, peppers, spinach, and okra are readily available at local markets, with prices fluctuating based on the season. A basket of tomatoes can range from ₦500 to ₦1,500. Fruits like oranges, mangoes, and guavas are affordable, especially during harvest seasons, with prices ranging from ₦100 to ₦500 per unit.

• Eating Out: Gombe has numerous local eateries, restaurants, and street food vendors that offer Nigerian delicacies at affordable prices. A meal of jollof rice or pounded yam with soup and beef in a local restaurant typically costs between ₦500 and ₦1,500. Fine dining restaurants in Gombe City are more expensive but still affordable compared to major cities, with meal prices ranging from ₦1,500 to ₦3,000.

4. Healthcare

Healthcare services in Gombe State are a mix of public and private providers. The state has several government-owned hospitals and clinics, as well as private medical facilities that offer varying levels of care.

• Public Healthcare: Public healthcare is more affordable, with consultation fees at government hospitals ranging from ₦500 to ₦1,000. However, the quality of care at public hospitals may be lower than that of private facilities, and patients often experience long waiting times. For routine treatments and minor ailments, public hospitals are the preferred choice for many residents.

• Private Healthcare: Private hospitals and clinics in Gombe City offer better services but at a higher cost. Consultation fees at private hospitals can range from ₦2,000 to ₦5,000, while specialized treatments, surgeries, and diagnostics are considerably more expensive. Medications in private hospitals are also costlier compared to public facilities.

• Pharmaceuticals: Over-the-counter medications such as paracetamol and antibiotics are affordable and readily available in pharmacies throughout the state. Basic medications typically cost between ₦100 and ₦1,000, while more specialized drugs may be more expensive, depending on the condition being treated.

5. Education

Education in Gombe State is divided into public and private sectors, with options for primary, secondary, and tertiary education.

• Public Schools: Public primary and secondary schools in Gombe are affordable, with minimal fees for registration and exams. However, the quality of education in some public schools may be affected by overcrowding, inadequate infrastructure, and a shortage of teaching staff, especially in rural areas.

• Private Schools: Private schools in Gombe offer a higher quality of education, better infrastructure, and smaller class sizes. Fees for private primary schools range from ₦50,000 to ₦150,000 per term, while secondary school fees can go up to ₦300,000 per term.

• Tertiary Education: Gombe State is home to several higher institutions, including Gombe State University and the Federal College of Education. Tuition fees for public universities are relatively affordable, ranging from ₦30,000 to ₦100,000 per session, while private institutions charge significantly more.

6. Utilities and Miscellaneous Costs

• Electricity: Access to electricity in Gombe is improving, but supply remains inconsistent in some areas. Many residents rely on generators to supplement power, particularly in rural areas. The cost of running a generator depends on fuel consumption, with weekly expenses ranging from ₦2,000 to ₦5,000.

• Water: Tap water is available in urban areas like Gombe City, but many residents prefer to use boreholes or purchase water from vendors. The cost of purchasing water is relatively low, with households spending around ₦500 to ₦2,000 monthly, depending on usage.

• Internet and Communication: Mobile data and internet services are available in Gombe, though the quality of service may vary based on location. Internet costs range from ₦1,500 to ₦5,000 per month, depending on the data package and provider.

Conclusion

The cost of living in Gombe State is relatively affordable compared to many other Nigerian states, especially those in the southern part of the country. Housing, transportation, food, and healthcare costs are manageable for most residents, making Gombe an attractive option for individuals and families seeking a comfortable yet affordable lifestyle. Despite some challenges related to infrastructure and access to certain amenities, Gombe’s steady economic growth, agricultural abundance, and strategic location make it a promising region for both residents and investors.