Governor of Jigawa state, Mallam Umar A. Namadi has established himself as a transformative leader with a clear vision, disciplined governance, and unwavering commitment to the well-being of his people.
Since assuming office on May 29, 2023, Namadi has prioritised development across multiple sectors, anchored on a people-first agenda that resonates deeply with the grassroots.
Governor Namadi’s administration is driven by his signature 12-Point Agenda, a strategic framework focused on economic empowerment, education, healthcare, infrastructure, and transparency.
His governance style reflects participatory democracy. Town hall meetings, community consultations, and data-driven planning have ensured that citizens remain at the center of every policy. “We believe the people must own the government. That’s the only way development can be sustainable,” the governor stated during a recent policy dialogue in Dutse.
Jigawa, known for its agricultural potential, has seen a revival under Namadi’s leadership. The Jigawa Agricultural Revitalisation Programme (JARP) has empowered over 60,000 farmers through access to subsidized inputs, modern farm equipment, and mechanized services.
The rehabilitation of irrigation schemes in Hadejia, Birnin Kudu, and Kazaure has transformed previously seasonal farming into an all-year activity, significantly boosting food production.
The state has also launched export-focused initiatives for rice, sesame, and hibiscus, connecting Jigawa’s produce to international markets and increasing farmers’ income.
Under Namadi, education has received unprecedented attention. Over 700 classrooms have been renovated, and 1,500 qualified teachers recruited. The government also introduced a Girl-Child Support Programme, which offers free uniforms, school meals, and scholarships, drastically improving enrollment and retention.
In the healthcare sector, Governor Namadi’s administration implemented the Jigawa Health Access Program (J-HAP), providing free maternal and child health services across all 287 wards. New primary healthcare centers have been constructed, and existing ones fully equipped with personnel and modern facilities.
The Namadi administration has embarked on ambitious infrastructure projects. Over 500 kilometers of rural roads have been constructed, easing movement of goods and people, and connecting remote communities to economic hubs.
Major projects such as the Dutse–Kiyawa road dualisation and expansion of the Dutse International Airport have positioned the state as a strategic investment destination in Northern Nigeria.
Rural electrification through solar street lighting and borehole installations in over 200 communities have improved both living standards and security.
ECONOMIC EMPOWERMENT AND YOUTH DEVELOPMENT
Through the Jigawa Micro Enterprise Initiative, over ₦2.5 billion has been disbursed to SMEs, especially those run by youth and women. Vocational training centers have been upgraded and partnered with private sector players to equip young people with digital and technical skills.
Jigawa now ranks among the most proactive states in terms of job creation and SME development, with youth unemployment steadily declining.
Governor Namadi’s administration has received praise from civil society for its transparent budgeting process and strict anti-corruption stance. The state has adopted the Open Governance Partnership (OGP) model, allowing public access to financial records and project implementation timelines.
Security has also improved significantly, thanks to strengthened collaboration between local vigilante groups and national security agencies. Inter-communal peacebuilding programs have reduced tensions and built trust among diverse communities.
In 2024, Governor Namadi received the Nigeria Governors’ Forum Award for Good Governance and Innovation, a testament to his impactful policies. Jigawa State also ranked in the top five states for budget performance by BudgIT and the Center for Fiscal Transparency.
Looking ahead, Namadi has announced plans for green energy development, establishment of Agro-Processing Zones, and digital infrastructure expansion.
“Leadership is not about noise or showmanship; it’s about quietly delivering results that touch lives,” Governor Namadi said during the 2025 Independence Day address.
There is cautious optimism and growing belief that Umar Namadi may well go down in history as one of Jigawa’s most impactful governors.
Ola Adedayo,
Abuja.
