By Adamu Muhd. Usman
“Everyone has their own ways of expression. I believe we all have a lot to say, but finding ways to say it is more than half the battle.”
— Criss Jami
At the beginning of every new year, it is customary for leaders across the world to reach out to their people with messages of hope, reflection, and renewed commitment. In Nigeria, this tradition has been widely observed. Across print, broadcast, and digital platforms, presidents, governors, senators, and ministers have delivered New Year addresses—reviewing the outgoing year, acknowledging shortcomings, celebrating achievements, and outlining plans for the year ahead. Some went further by granting amnesty to inmates, offering scholarships, or announcing social interventions.
In Jigawa State, however, the silence from the executive arm of government has been both striking and troubling.
While the Speaker of the Jigawa State House of Assembly sent a New Year felicitation message to the people, it remained a legislative gesture that did not sufficiently reflect the achievements or direction of the state government in 2025. Still, the Speaker deserves commendation for making the effort to communicate with the public.
This situation raises critical questions. Is the silence due to the governor’s absence from the country? Was the deputy governor not empowered to act in his stead? Or does the APC-led government underestimate the importance of public communication and accountability? More importantly, has Governor Umar Namadi (FCA) fully embraced the responsibility of regularly engaging the people and reporting on the dividends of democracy?
Leadership demands visibility, especially at moments that call for reassurance and direction. When a governor is unavailable, it is standard practice to delegate authority to the deputy governor to ensure continuity of governance and communication. Silence, particularly at such a symbolic time, creates uncertainty and fuels unnecessary speculation.
Undoubtedly, the year 2025 came with its challenges—policy setbacks, implementation gaps, and unavoidable obstacles. Yet, leadership is not defined by the absence of challenges but by the willingness to acknowledge them and clearly communicate corrective measures. The people of Jigawa deserve to know what went wrong, what was learned, and what steps are being taken to do better.
The state government should publicly outline its achievements, admit its shortcomings, and present a clear roadmap for 2026 and beyond. Only then can citizens fairly assess the administration’s performance and determine its future—whether it earns a single four-year mandate (2023–2027) or the opportunity for continuity through a second term.
Let Jigawa keep working.
Let Jigawa keep moving.
Let Jigawa keep uniting.
Let Jigawa keep progressing.
Let Jigawa keep harmonising.
Let Jigawa keep competing.
Let Jigawa keep striving for excellence.
This is the Jigawa of our dreams.
Adamu writes from Kafin-Hausa, Jigawa State.
Please, Jigawa Governor, Talk to Us
