Usman Umar Girei
Jimeta, the bustling hub of Yola North Local Government Area in Adamawa State, is currently grappling with economic hardship as residents voice their frustrations over the skyrocketing cost of essential commodities. Among those raising concerns is Malam Salihu Ya’uba, widely known as Andal Mayo, who described the current situation as “worrisome” and a significant burden on the masses.
Speaking to our reporter during the week, Malam Salihu lamented the unaffordability of daily necessities, which he says has created a dire situation for both consumers and traders. “Traders are not making sales, and their stocks remain unsold. This is a serious blow and a tentative setback to the business community,” he stated.
The 48-year-old community leader attributed the challenges to what he termed “gross negligence” on the part of the Federal Government, especially in providing basic amenities for the populace. He stressed the need for urgent action, noting that the inaccessibility of essential services is worsening the plight of the common man.

Malam Salihu also highlighted the deteriorating state of education, which he described as the “bedrock of societal development.” According to him, addressing challenges in the education sector is critical to reviving Nigeria’s socio-economic stability. “Education is the foundation for societal growth and the only way to rebuild our economy. The government must prioritize it,” he emphasized.
In a bold call to action, he urged political officeholders to lead by example by enrolling their children in public schools across the country. “If public schools are good enough for the average Nigerian, they should be good enough for the children of our leaders. This will ensure a collective effort to improve the quality of education,” he concluded.
The cries of Jimeta residents like Malam Salihu Ya’uba paint a vivid picture of the challenges faced by ordinary Nigerians, who are struggling under the weight of economic hardship. Their appeals for government intervention, particularly in education and the provision of basic amenities, underscore the urgent need for reforms to uplift the lives of the masses.