Echoes From The Jigawa Executive Council Meeting

In continuation of his efforts to implement his 12-point agenda and pursue reforms for a prosperous Jigawa State, Governor Malam Umar Namadi presided over the State Executive Council meeting, during which numerous projects and programs were approved for implementation.

The transformation taking place in the state since Governor Namadi assumed office two years ago has strengthened the people’s confidence in achieving economic prosperity and development.
The projects approved by the State Executive Council span various sectors, directly addressing the needs of ordinary citizens while also contributing to building a sustainable economy.

1. ₦4.42 Billion Approved for Foreign Medical Scholarship

The council approved the release of $2.68 million (₦4.42 billion) to support 184 medical students at Near East University, Cyprus, covering their (2025/2026 academic session The funds will cover tuition, accommodation, allowances, permits, and health insurance.

Among the beneficiaries are 80 female students, reflecting the state government’s commitment to bridging the manpower gap in the health sector.

This initiative aligns with the broader goal of ensuring affordable and accessible healthcare for all citizens, regardless of economic status or geographical location.

Governor Namadi emphasized his vision that, “no resident of Jigawa should die due to unaffordable medical bills or lack of access to quality healthcare.”

2. Approval for Recruitment of 37 Non-Indigene Medical Doctors

The council has authorized the State Ministry of Health to proceed with the recruitment of 37 medical doctors on permanent and pensionable terms, irrespective of their state of origin.

This recruitment aims to bolster the workforce needed to manage newly established and upgraded health facilities across Jigawa.

Over the past two years, the Namadi administration has renovated, upgraded, and completed over 200 health facilities, including primary, secondary, and tertiary institutions.

3. ₦2.69 Billion Approved for Flood Control Measures

The council approved ₦2.69 billion for the construction of 32 drainage systems across 13 flood-prone LGA to mitigate flooding risks.

This decision follows the National Meteorological Agency’s (NiMet) warning that 21 LGAs in Jigawa are at high risk of flooding in 2025.

4. ₦700 Million Earmarked for Irrigation Facilities

₦700 million counterpart fund was approved for the expansion of irrigation facilities under the Sustainable Power and Irrigation for Nigeria (SPIN) project, a World Bank initiative.

The projects include: – Rehabilitation and expansion of Warwade Dam (Dutse LGA) Development of Ayama/Koya Irrigation Scheme (Auyo LGA)

5. Approval for Purchasing Additional Shares in KEDCO

The council approved the release of a second tranche of ₦1 billion to increase the Jigawa State Government’s stake in the Kano Electricity Distribution Company (KEDCO) from 7.5% to 10%
This investment aligns with the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed with KEDCO to support its recapitalization and improve power distribution in Jigawa and beyond.

6. ₦448 Million for DANMODI Student Care Initiative

The council approved ₦448 million for the procurement of school uniforms, bags, books, bicycles, and wheelchairs for basic education students.
The DANMODI Student Care initiative aims to promote inclusive education and reduce barriers for children with disabilities or those from low-income households.

8. ₦569 Million for Female Students’ Uniforms and Furniture

The council approved ₦569 million for:
supply and distribution of 3,900 uniforms for female students. Procurement of 2,450 sets of 3-seater students furniture for girls’ secondary schools

According to the State Commissioner for Information, Youth, Sports, and Culture, Hon. Sagir Musa said , this initiative supports the state’s ree education policy for girls from primary to tertiary levels
He noted that investing in girls’ education is crucial for achieving social and economic development in Jigawa State.