The landmark transformations in Jigawa State under Gov. Umar Namadi
By Nura A. Tanko
Leadership, they say, can be innate or developed through life’s struggles, experiences, and interactions. In Jigawa State, the administration of Governor Malam Umar Namadi, FCA, has demonstrated that true leadership is reflected in service, accountability, and tangible development. In less than three years in office, Namadi’s administration has transformed Jigawa into a model of progress, with achievements that have drawn admiration across Nigeria and inspired other states to replicate his governance style.
The people of Jigawa are proud of these strides, and across the state’s 27 Local Government Areas, prayers abound for the governor’s continued success. His zeal for equal distribution of resources and projects has ensured that development reaches both urban and rural communities.
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One of the landmark efforts is in the area of water supply. The administration has revived the Greater Dutse Water Project, sourcing from Suntulmawa village in Ringim LGA. Previously abandoned by successive governments, the initiative now promises steady and regular water for Dutse and its environs, addressing a long-standing challenge.
During the last Ramadan, the government embarked on a massive feeding program that reached millions of less-privileged citizens, bringing relief at a crucial period.
Housing has also received attention, with the completion of 1,500 mass housing units across Birnin Kudu, Hadejia, Dutse, Kafin Hausa, and Ringim LGAs, aimed at reducing accommodation deficits.
On education, the Namadi administration has sponsored 200 indigent students to pursue professional courses in India and Cyprus, focusing on those who excelled in examinations. At the same time, the government has paid for NECO and JAMB registration for thousands of students, ensuring that financial barriers do not hinder opportunities. Thousands of candidates have now successfully passed WAEC examinations, reversing Jigawa’s negative reputation in education.
To enhance school safety, perimeter fences have been erected around primary and junior secondary schools across the state.
The administration has also promoted environmental sustainability, planting over 5,000 assorted trees to combat desertification and improve the ecosystem.
On the economic front, the establishment of a mega trade zone in Maigatari LGA is set to boost agricultural exports, create jobs, and expand state revenue.
Governor Namadi has further strengthened the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) scheme by building corps members’ lodges across all 27 LGAs, improving both security and welfare for young graduates serving in the state.
Agriculture, the backbone of Jigawa’s economy, is receiving unprecedented support. The government has distributed 300 tractors at subsidized rates to farmers and allocated 100 hectares of land in each LGA to unemployed youths, a move designed to boost food production and promote self-reliance.
Attention has also been given to vulnerable groups. For people living with special needs, monthly stipends were increased from ₦7,000 to ₦10,000, with 3,780 beneficiaries currently enrolled—140 from each LGA. This demonstrates the administration’s commitment to inclusivity and social protection.
Healthcare has not been left behind. The state is currently constructing orthopedic hospitals in Kazaure and Hadejia local governments, which will provide specialized services previously unavailable in the region.
In terms of communication and information, the upgrading of Jigawa State Radio and Television to international standards has improved outreach, allowing broadcasts to go far beyond the state.
For many citizens, what stands out most about Governor Namadi—fondly called Danmodi—is not only the physical projects but also his leadership style. He is approachable, transparent, and principled, shunning favoritism, tribalism, nepotism, and dishonesty. His style of governance has restored faith in leadership, making Jigawa a reference point in Nigeria’s democratic journey.
The governor’s administration has proven that good governance is not about rhetoric but about action that directly impacts lives. Whether through education sponsorships, agricultural empowerment, housing provision, or healthcare investment, his policies are reshaping Jigawa for the better.
As an APC member from Birnin Kudu, I am not merely singing praises but stating observable facts. The projects are visible, verifiable, and impactful, touching every corner of the state. Governor Namadi’s steadfastness, humility, and exemplary commitment to service continue to endear him to the people.
Indeed, Jigawa under Namadi is undergoing a dramatic transformation. It is my prayer, like that of many others, that his administration continues on this path of progress, bringing greater prosperity and development to our dear state.
Nura A. Tanko, a member of APC in Birnin Kudu, writes from Jigawa State.
