By Ahmed Aminu, Dutse

In a bold move to enhance grassroots development and promote economic recovery, the Nigeria COVID-19 Action Recovery and Economic Stimulus (NG-CARES) program has distributed motorcycles to facilitators across the 27 local government areas of Jigawa State under its FADAMA CARES Results Area II initiative.

The distribution is seen as a strategic intervention aimed at bridging gaps in rural service delivery, ensuring timely support for farmers, and strengthening community-based projects.

The State Programme Coordinator, Dr. Aliyu Inuwa,
emphasized that the motorcycles were provided to ease mobility challenges faced by facilitators in reaching remote communities.

“This intervention is designed to enhance your capacity to deliver services efficiently and achieve better results for rural development programs,” Dr. Inuwa stated.

Highlighting the importance of accountability, he urged beneficiaries to adhere to maintenance agreements to ensure the motorcycles remain functional and impactful throughout the program’s implementation.
The initiative comes at a time when rural communities are grappling with economic hardships and food insecurity. By improving mobility and accessibility, the motorcycles will enable facilitators to monitor agricultural activities, deliver technical support, and supervise economic recovery programs in hard-to-reach areas.

A member of the Beneficiary Targeting Selection Committee, Mr. Aminu Adamu,
described the gesture as a reward for dedication, acknowledging the facilitators’ critical role in achieving the goals of FADAMA CARES.

“This effort underscores our collective commitment to rural transformation and economic recovery,” Adamu said.
He called on facilitators to prioritize maintenance and security of the motorcycles to sustain their impact.

Voices from the Field
For facilitators like Malam Yahaya from Kazaure, the motorcycles provide a timely solution to mobility challenges.

“This intervention will improve our ability to reach remote areas, offer support to farmers, and oversee agricultural programs effectively,” Yahaya noted.

He also appealed for additional support, particularly for fueling and maintenance costs, to ensure uninterrupted field operations.
The motorcycle distribution aligns with NG-CARES’ broader strategy to revitalize rural economies, strengthen agricultural productivity, and improve livelihoods in Jigawa State.
As facilitators gear up for expanded field operations, the intervention is expected to accelerate the implementation of development programs, reduce poverty, and empower rural communities, marking a significant step toward post-pandemic economic resilience.

The Governor of Jigawa State, Umar Namadi, is mourning the loss of his mother, Hajiya Maryam Namadi-Umar, who passed away in the early hours of Wednesday, December 25, 2024, after a brief illness.
A statement issued by the governor’s spokesperson, Hamisu Mohammed Gumel, confirmed the sad news and announced that funeral prayers and burial will be held today at 4:30 PM in Kafin Hausa, her hometown, following Islamic rites.
“With deep sorrow and submission to the will of Allah, His Excellency Mallam Umar Namadi, Governor of Jigawa State, announces the passing of his dear mother, Hajiya Maryam Namadi Umar,” Gumel stated.
He added, “The governor and his family seek prayers for her soul, asking Allah to grant her eternal rest in Jannah and comfort the bereaved family during this trying time.”
Sympathizers and dignitaries are expected to join the family in prayers and pay their last respects as arrangements for the burial unfold today.

By Ahmed Rufa’i, Dutse

The Al-Yaqeen Miga Waqf Foundation in Miga Local Government Area, Jigawa State, has raised over N39.7 million to provide free healthcare and education for 1,100 orphans, elderly persons, and vulnerable groups.

The chief launcher, Alhaji Sa’idu Ismaila Koya, made the largest donation of N15 million, contributing N5 million personally and N10 million on behalf of his parents.
Speaking at the event, Alhaji Muhammad Garba, Chairman of the Foundation and District Head of Miga, described the foundation as a philanthropic initiative based on Islamic endowment (Waqf) principles.
“60% of the funds will be invested for sustainability, while 40% will support vulnerable groups, including orphans, widows, and the elderly,” he stated.
He added that the foundation aims to build financial independence for beneficiaries and evolve from annual Zakat collections into daily Waqf donations, accessible to all.
Dr. Hassan Hussaini Adamu, representing the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO), highlighted their support in health services, education, and community development across five states and 138 LGAs.
“We focus on sustainable health financing, scholarships, and vocational training to promote financial independence and inclusiveness,” he said.
The Emir of Dutse, Alhaji Muhammad Hameem Nuhu, commended the FCDO for their support and urged citizens to donate generously, emphasizing that such acts carry spiritual rewards.
Key donors included, Speaker, Jigawa House of Assembly
Rt. Hon. Haruna Aliyu Dangyatin, N5m, Miga Local Government Council N2m, Miga Local Government Chairman N500,000.
The foundation’s chairman expressed gratitude to donors and called for continued support to sustain the program and improve lives.

END