Key Decisions from the Jigawa State Executive Council Meeting, August 15th, 2024

During the recent State Executive Council meeting chaired by Governor Malam Umar A. Namadi of Jigawa State, several significant decisions were made to address pressing issues affecting the state:

– Flood Response: The Council expressed sympathy for the people affected by recent flash floods in several Local Government Areas (LGAs) including Auyo, Buji, and Hadejia. The government has taken swift action to mitigate the impact by deploying hydro pumps to remove storm water and supporting communal efforts to sandbag critical areas. The State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) is providing relief items, relocating victims to safer locations, and ensuring access to food, medical care, and clean water.

– Economic Support Measures: To alleviate economic hardships, the Council approved the distribution of subsidized food items and fertilizers to the poor and vulnerable across the 27 LGAs. However, due to recent protests and vandalism, distribution in seven LGAs has been temporarily suspended, and certain government stores have been closed until security can be assured.

– Educational Support: The Council approved N3.83 billion for the 2024/2025 academic session to cover tuition, accommodation, and other expenses for 185 Jigawa State students studying at Near East University, Cyprus.

– Pension Payments: The Council authorized the release of over N3.42 billion for the payment of retirement benefits and death gratuities to 1,331 civil servants under the Jigawa State Contributory Pension Scheme.

– Land Revocation and Development: The Ministry of Land will begin revoking undeveloped plots/lands allocated by the government that have not been developed according to the terms of allocation.

– Telecommunication Infrastructure: In line with the state’s commitment to increasing broadband penetration, the Council eliminated Right of Way (RoW) charges for telecommunication companies deploying infrastructure in Jigawa State, supporting the administration’s 12-Points agenda.

These decisions highlight the state government’s proactive approach to disaster management, economic relief, educational support, and infrastructure development, demonstrating a commitment to the well-being and progress of Jigawa State residents.