By Adamu Muhd Usman
The third American President, Thomas Jefferson (1801–1809), once said, “The care of human life and happiness, and not their destruction, is the first and only object of good government.” He also stated, “That government is the strongest of which every man feels himself a part.” Inspired by these quotes, I feel encouraged to appeal to His Excellency, the Governor of Jigawa State, Malam Umar Namadi (FCA), also known as Dan Modi, on certain critical issues affecting the state. These matters weigh heavily on me, as they directly impact the people of Jigawa, and the governor is in the best position to address them. If revisited and resolved, they will significantly benefit a large segment of the populace.
Currently, Jigawa State lacks substantial federal government presence in this democratic dispensation. Almost all the projects directly impacting the people are state-led initiatives executed by your administration. While intervention funds and empowerment programs are shared across states, they are often not visible or enduring. What Jigawa needs are sustainable projects or programs that benefit the majority of its residents—irrespective of tribe, religion, political affiliation, or nationality.
Jigawa is an agrarian state with over 3,000 hectares of Fadama land capable of feeding the nation, yet it has remained neglected for over 40 years. President Tinubu’s administration has failed to complement the state government’s efforts in executing capital projects, which could have supported Malam Umar Namadi’s 12-point agenda and improved the people’s well-being. The federal government’s neglect of Jigawa is evident, and it has taken the wisdom, experience, and determination of Governor Namadi, with the help of God, to execute key projects during these challenging times under Tinubu’s administration.
It is worth noting that the All Progressives Congress (APC) won the 2023 presidential election in Jigawa, with Tinubu securing more votes than Alhaji Atiku Abubakar of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP). This obligates us to appeal to our governor to advocate for federal support, particularly for the promises made by APC and President Tinubu to Nigerians.
Take, for instance, the Hadejia Irrigation Project or Hadejia Irrigation Scheme, initiated in 1980 under the Shagari regime, nearly 45 years ago. The project, intended to irrigate over 2,000 hectares of farmland, remains underdeveloped. This administration has the opportunity to demonstrate its commitment to progress by allocating funds in the 2024 or 2025 budgets to revitalise the project. With proper funding, the Hadejia River Basin could significantly contribute to national food security. Jigawa farmers already grow crops like rice, cowpeas, wheat, and vegetables, which could yield 3–4 harvests annually with improved varieties and irrigation.
Unfortunately, the federal government appears to pay lip service to critical issues affecting the economy and the people of Jigawa. I urge Governor Namadi to leverage his experience, moral values, and close relationship with President Tinubu to push for the federal government’s intervention on these pressing matters. He should continue to appeal, remind, and advocate until tangible results are achieved.
During Dr. Sule Lamido’s tenure as governor, he actively lobbied the federal government under Presidents Umaru Yar’Adua and Goodluck Jonathan for projects like the Federal University Dutse (FUD), the Federal Medical Centre, and the reimbursement for the Dutse airport construction. His efforts even led to a ₦10 billion allocation for the Hadejia Irrigation Project, though it remains incomplete. Governor Namadi should follow this example and persist in lobbying for federal support.
Another urgent issue is the reconstruction of the Hadejia-Gamayin-Kafin Hausa-Jahun-Ajingi-Gaya-Wudil federal road. Despite efforts by previous administrations, including Sule Lamido, the road remains in disrepair. This road connects Jigawa and Kano states and serves as a vital link to the northeastern region. Given the cordial relationship between Governor Namadi and Kano State Governor Abba Yusuf Kabir, as well as Vice President Kashim Shettima’s influence, there is an opportunity to collaborate and push for the road’s reconstruction.
The road, which leads to Sule Lamido University Kafin-Hausa, has become a death trap, with frequent accidents and armed robberies. It also serves as a crucial route for transporting farm produce and livestock from rural to urban areas. Its reconstruction would promote education, economic growth, and social development, while reducing insecurity. I appeal to Governor Namadi to prioritise this project and secure federal support.
Lastly, Governor Namadi should remind President Tinubu about ensuring equitable representation of Jigawa indigenes in federal appointments and opportunities. Allegations persist that Jigawa’s quotas in federal agencies and commissions are often sold or allocated to individuals from other states. Your Excellency, please investigate and address this issue to ensure fairness and transparency.
May Allah continue to unite, protect, and bless Jigawa State.
Adamu Muhd Usman
Kafin-Hausa, Jigawa State