By Ahmed Rufa’i, Dutse
Jigawa State is doubling down on its investment in young people, pledging fresh resources and initiatives to shape them into competent leaders and catalysts for economic reform.
Governor Malam Umar Namadi made the pledge at the 2025 International Youth Day celebration in Dutse, telling a packed Banquet Hall at the Government House that the future of both the state and the nation depends on the energy, creativity, and leadership of its youth.
“Our commitment is evident in our 12-Point Agenda, which prioritizes youth development through massive investments in education, skills training, empowerment, and mentorship over the past two years,” Namadi said. “Under this agenda, all relevant ministries have been directed to introduce innovations that will help Jigawa’s youth unlock their full potential.”
He said the administration will continue to channel support into agriculture, information and communication technology (ICT), and skills acquisition, describing these as critical pathways to modernization and economic independence.
Namadi also pledged to review and implement youth recommendations from the event, noting that citizen input is essential for realistic budgeting and policymaking.
State Commissioner for Information, Youth, Sports, and Culture, Hon. Sagir Musa, used the occasion to remind young people of their responsibilities.
He urged them to prepare for leadership roles, uphold societal values, and embrace the qualities that will earn them respect in their communities.
The celebration, organized by the State Ministry of Information, Youth, Sports, and Culture, drew youth groups, civil society organizations, National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) members, government agencies, and other stakeholders.
It featured lively activities — from panel discussions and policy dialogues to storytelling sessions — all focused on tackling youth challenges and identifying opportunities for building a stronger society.
Discussions ranged from the social realities of today’s youth to bold ideas for fostering inclusion, innovation, and leadership in Jigawa’s next generation.