Writing By Aminu Dalhatu; Editing By Godwin Duru
A prominent Islamic scholar in Zamfara State, Sheikh Tukur Sani Jangebe, has called on the Federal Government to treat unemployment as a national priority in 2026, stressing that, the meaningful engagement of youth is critical to economic stability and social cohesion in Nigeria.
Sheikh Jangebe made the call while addressing journalists in Gusau, the Zamfara State capital, where he expressed concern over the growing number of unemployed graduates across the country.
He urged the Federal Government to intensify efforts toward job creation, particularly for unemployed men and women who possess university degrees, professional qualifications, and even PhDs but remain without gainful employment.
According to the cleric, providing employment opportunities for graduates must remain a top priority, as it would enable them to support themselves and their families while contributing meaningfully to national development.
Sheikh Jangebe also challenged Northern governors to scale up efforts in improving security, education, healthcare delivery, road infrastructure, agriculture, and livestock development.
He added that, supporting traders and small businesses would further stimulate economic growth and reduce poverty.
On national security, the Islamic scholar appealed to the Federal Government, the National Assembly, ministers, and other relevant stakeholders to confront the challenge of insecurity with renewed seriousness, warning that, peace and development cannot thrive without adequate security.
In this regard, he called on elder statesmen, retired senior security officers, and other influential Nigerians to unite and offer strategic counsel to the Federal Government, urging it to firmly protect Nigeria’s sovereignty and avoid any reliance on external forces in addressing security challenges.
Speaking on social welfare, Sheikh Jangebe urged governments across Nigeria, both in the North and South, to emulate Abia State’s initiative on elderly care.
He commended the Abia State Government under Governor Alex Otti for enacting the Abia State Senior Citizens Law 2025, which provided monthly stipends, free healthcare, and dedicated Senior Citizens’ Centres for residents aged 60 years and above.
He noted that if Abia State could successfully implement such a programme, Northern states could also adopt similar measures to improve the welfare and dignity of elderly citizens.
Sheikh Jangebe expressed confidence that states such as Kano, Kaduna, Sokoto, Zamfara, Borno, Bauchi, Kebbi, among others, have the capacity to implement people oriented policies that would significantly improve the lives of their citizens.
The cleric also offered prayers for the new year, asking God to bless Nigeria with peace, unity, and sustainable development and expressed optimism that, 2026 would surpass 2025 in prosperity and national cohesion.
Commenting on the 2026 Federal Government budget, Sheikh Jangebe commended the executive arm for proposing substantial allocations aimed at improving living standards through developmental projects nationwide, but emphasized that transparent and sincere implementation is key to achieving the desired impact.
He further called on all stakeholders involved in project execution to fear God, shun corruption and breach of trust, avoid injustice, and ensure accountability in the management of public resources, noting that such values are essential to alleviating hardship and restoring public confidence.
COV/AMINU DALHATU
