By Adamu Muhd Usman
As the holy month of Ramadan approaches, it is important to reflect on the palliative programmes implemented in previous years. The Jigawa Free Ramadan Meal (JFRM) initiative delivered significant benefits and yielded commendable results for many citizens across the state.
However, there were notable challenges. In some areas, the programme did not commence on the first day of Ramadan as planned, with delays stretching from several days to over a week. There were also administrative lapses that reportedly led to the suspension of a commissioner and other officials. These shortcomings should serve as lessons moving forward.
I therefore urge His Excellency, Malam Umar Namadi (FCA), popularly known as Danmodi, to take these past experiences into account and implement stronger oversight mechanisms. Given that the feeding allowance has reportedly increased substantially—from about ₦2 billion in 2024 to over ₦4 billion in 2025—the programme has grown in both scale and financial commitment. Such a significant investment must be handled with the highest level of seriousness and accountability.
At the recent Jigawa State Executive Council meeting held on Wednesday, 11th and Thursday, 12th February 2026, the council approved the 1447 A.H/2026 Ramadan Iftar Feeding Programme. However, the specific budgetary allocation for the 2026 exercise was not clearly stated in the council’s resolution.
According to available information, the programme will operate two feeding centres in each of the 287 political wards across the 27 Local Government Areas. Additional centres will be established in tertiary institutions, correctional facilities, and social welfare institutions to ensure inclusiveness and wider coverage. This is highly commendable.
The initiative is expected to provide 264,000 meal packages daily throughout Ramadan, potentially delivering over 23.8 million meals and reaching more than 7.9 million beneficiaries statewide, excluding visitors and travellers. Masha Allah—this is an ambitious and compassionate undertaking.
The governor’s decision is clearly aimed at cushioning the hardship caused by rising food prices, particularly during the fasting period. It is noteworthy that this is the third consecutive year (2024–2026) the programme has been implemented under his administration, reflecting consistency and commitment.
While the intention is noble, effective implementation remains critical. There are concerns that the benefits may not always reach the most vulnerable and deserving citizens. For this reason, faithfulness, punctuality, transparency, accountability, and strict supervision must guide the entire process.
This is a special initiative that requires continuous monitoring, field visits, and independent scrutiny to prevent mismanagement. If sincerely and diligently executed, it can foster unity, peaceful coexistence, mutual understanding, political stability, and positive social transformation—especially at a time when society faces various challenges.
I respectfully appeal to the governor to review last year’s reports—both written and oral complaints—and ensure that competent, trustworthy, and God-fearing individuals are selected to oversee this year’s programme.
It is also worth acknowledging the efforts of Hon. Auwal Sankara, Commissioner for Special Duties/Humanitarian Affairs, who worked to address issues raised during last year’s Ramadan feeding exercise. His commitment to responsibility and accountability is commendable.
Your Excellency, it is crucial to guard against individuals who may attempt to undermine this noble initiative through negligence, favoritism, or mismanagement. The programme must not become an avenue for embezzlement or the awarding of contracts to unqualified associates. Its success depends on integrity and transparency.
May Allah continue to guide and protect Jigawa State and grant its leaders the wisdom to serve with justice and sincerity.
As the American guitarist, singer, and songwriter Jimi Hendrix (1942–1970) once said, “Knowledge speaks, but wisdom listens.”
Adamu writes from Kafin-Hausa, Jigawa State.
Jigawa Free Ramadan Meal (JFRM): Governor Namadi Should Strengthen Monitoring
