The Jigawa State Government has rolled out a multi-million-naira empowerment programme for butchers and members of the National Union of Road Transport Workers, NURTW.
Governor Malam Umar Namadi flagged off the initiative on Tuesday at the Dutse Sports Complex, announcing that the total support amounts to ₦392.3 million.
He described the move as part of his administration’s commitment to empowering grassroots economic actors who play vital roles in society.
In the first phase, 36 commercial vehicles worth ₦279.3 million, including insurance, were handed over to NURTW members under a revolving loan scheme coordinated by the state’s Youth Economic Empowerment and Employment Agency.
Governor Namadi urged beneficiaries to properly manage the vehicles, stressing that the union leadership must ensure strict monitoring and compliance with terms of the scheme to ensure its sustainability.
He emphasized that supporting transport workers strengthens the overall economic chain of the state, especially in agriculture, commerce, and industry.
Highlighting infrastructure investments, the governor revealed that his administration has completed 26 inherited road projects and awarded contracts for 50 new roads covering over 850 kilometers, valued at over ₦300 billion.
He also disclosed that the state is embracing cleaner energy, with a Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) Conversion Center already nearing completion, which will benefit NURTW members and reduce transport costs.
In the second phase of the empowerment, ₦113 million was allocated to the Butchers Association through another revolving loan scheme.
The initiative targets 53 livestock traders, with 15 major dealers receiving ₦5 million each, while 38 others received ₦1 million each, aimed at boosting the meat production value chain.
Governor Namadi noted that the programme would not only grow the trade but also enhance the entire livestock sector and improve meat market operations across the state.
To ensure lasting reform, he announced plans to establish a Ministry for Livestock Development, which will focus on modern abattoirs and improved slaughterhouse facilities.
The event marks another milestone in the administration’s strategy to deliver inclusive development and economic empowerment to key sectors of the population.
COV/Usman MZ
