Jigawa Rising: A Bold Vision for Infrastructure, Agriculture, and Healthcare Under Governor Umar Namadi
Folorunso S. ALUKO
The latest State Executive Council Meeting in Jigawa State, chaired by His Excellency, Governor Malam Umar A. Namadi, FCA, was a landmark session that reaffirmed the administration’s unwavering commitment to infrastructure development, agricultural advancement, and improved healthcare services. The resolutions passed at the meeting reflect a well-calibrated governance approach, demonstrating foresight, inclusivity, and strategic planning to position Jigawa State as a model of sustainable development.
As we analyse these resolutions sector by sector, it becomes evident that Governor Namadi’s leadership is one of pragmatism, innovation, and people-centred policies—a combination setting Jigawa on an accelerated trajectory of progress.
Infrastructure Development: Expanding the Road Network for Economic Growth
At the heart of Governor Namadi’s developmental vision is infrastructural expansion, a key driver of economic transformation. The approval of N1.51 billion for the compensation related to township road construction signals a significant leap in the state’s urban renewal strategy. Beneficiaries in areas such as Fagam, Kila-Jugwa-Sakuwa-Gwaram, Sankara-Ringim, Bulangu-K/Hausa, Gandun Sarki-Hadejia, Dansure-Roni, Aujara-Jahun, and Dutse LGAs will be adequately compensated, ensuring smooth implementation of these critical projects.
This bold infrastructure move aligns with Governor Namadi’s commitment to boosting connectivity, enhancing commercial activities, and improving residents’ mobility. Well-constructed roads increase access to markets, improve trade, and reduce business costs, making Jigawa an attractive destination for investors.
The governor’s approach also underscores fair compensation, ensuring that affected citizens are not left behind in the development process. This is a testament to his inclusive governance philosophy, where growth does not come at the expense of the people but instead empowers them.
Agricultural Transformation: Strengthening Jigawa’s Position as Nigeria’s Rice Hub
Governor Namadi’s administration champions agriculture as a pillar of economic sustainability, recognising its role in food security, job creation, and wealth generation. The approval of N8.27 billion as a 30% advance payment for the 2025 Dry Season Rice Programme is a game-changer, targeting 58,500 farmers and covering 50,000 hectares of rice farmland across 1,000 clusters.
This ambitious investment aims to increase rice production, empower local farmers, enhance mechanised farming, and make Jigawa a key contributor to Nigeria’s food security agenda. The intervention’s structured nature—farmers receive input loans repayable after harvest—ensures financial sustainability and minimal risks while maximising productivity.
Under Governor Namadi’s leadership, Jigawa is solidifying its competitive advantage in rice farming, attracting national and international attention. With increasing support for smallholder farmers, the state is positioning itself as Nigeria’s rice capital, fostering self-sufficiency, export potential, and agro-industrial development.
Healthcare Advancement: A Lifeline for Mothers and Newborns
The administration’s focus on public health, particularly maternal and neonatal care, reflects Governor Namadi’s deep commitment to human capital development. Approving a two-year extension of the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) France is a strategic move to reduce maternal and neonatal mortality rates.
This renewed partnership will enhance obstetric care at Jahun General Hospital, Aujara, and Miga Primary Healthcare Facilities, ensuring that pregnant women and newborns receive high-quality medical attention. The governor reinforces global best practices in healthcare service delivery by strengthening healthcare collaboration with an international humanitarian organisation.
Governor Namadi’s healthcare vision aligns with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly Goal 3 (Good Health and Well-being). His administration understands that a healthy population is productive, and this renewed effort underscores the state’s commitment to saving lives and improving medical infrastructure.
Governor Namadi’s Grand Vision: A New Dawn for Jigawa
The State Executive Council Meeting resolutions clearly indicate that Governor Umar Namadi is not just governing; he is transforming Jigawa into an economic and social powerhouse. His administration is not reactive but proactive, implementing policies that build long-term prosperity and uplift the people.
• With improved road networks, businesses and communities will thrive.
• With strategic agricultural investments, farmers will be empowered, and food security will be guaranteed.
• With enhanced healthcare services, mothers and children will survive, and families will prosper.
Governor Namadi is building a legacy of impactful leadership, ensuring that Jigawa State continues on a path of progress, resilience, and sustainable development. His administration’s governance model is visionary, inclusive, and transformative, securing a brighter future for all.
Jigawa is rising—and under Governor Namadi’s leadership, the best is yet to come.
