By Usman Muhammed Zaria
Jigawa State Governor, Malam Umar Namadi, has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to preserving peace, strengthening justice and expanding sustainable development opportunities as the state marks its 35th anniversary.
Jigawa State was created on August 27, 1991, by the Federal Military Government under the leadership of the then Head of State, General Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida, as part of efforts to bring governance closer to the people and promote balanced development.
Created from the former Kano State, Jigawa has Dutse as its capital and has recorded significant development through the contributions of successive administrations, institutions and generations of its people.
In his anniversary message, Governor Namadi described the occasion as a period of gratitude to Almighty Allah, reflection and renewed commitment to the ideals that shaped the state’s creation and development.
He paid tribute to the founding fathers, past leaders, traditional rulers, religious and community leaders, public servants, professionals, women and youth leaders, civil society organisations, development partners and citizens for their contributions to Jigawa’s progress.
The Governor specifically acknowledged the contributions of successive leaders, including the pioneer Military Administrator, Major-General Olayinka Sule; the first elected civilian Governor, Alhaji Ali Sa’ad Birnin-Kudu; Brigadier General Ibrahim Aliyu; Colonel Rasheed Alade Shekoni; Lieutenant Colonel Abubakar Zakariya Maimalari; Alhaji Ibrahim Saminu Turaki; Alhaji Sule Lamido; and Alhaji Muhammad Badaru Abubakar.
He also recognised former deputy governors, legislators, judges, commissioners, heads of service, permanent secretaries, local government officials and civil servants who served the state in various capacities.
Governor Namadi commended traditional institutions across the Hadejia, Kazaure, Gumel, Ringim and Dutse Emirates, as well as district, village and ward heads, Islamic scholars and community leaders, for promoting peace and preserving Jigawa’s cultural heritage.
He said the state’s progress over the past 35 years had been driven by the collective efforts of farmers, traders, teachers, health workers, artisans, scholars, entrepreneurs, security personnel, religious leaders, public officers and other citizens.
According to him, the greatest tribute to the state’s founding fathers and past leaders is to uphold their ideals through commitment to peace, justice, responsible management of public resources and inclusive development.
The Governor urged citizens to support efforts to strengthen institutions, invest in young people, protect vulnerable groups and build a peaceful, prosperous, disciplined and knowledge-driven Jigawa.
He called for continued understanding and support for his administration’s development agenda, anchored on sustainable development, socioeconomic wellbeing, peace and prosperity.
The statement was issued by Hamisu Mohammed Gumel, Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Government House, Dutse, who conveyed the Governor’s anniversary message and goodwill to the people of Jigawa State.
Governor Namadi prayed that Almighty Allah would reward those who served the state, forgive the departed, strengthen those still alive and continue to bless Jigawa State and the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
Editing By Yusuf Zubairu
