Governor Malam Umar Namadi of Jigawa State has reaffirmed that no sector holds greater importance for the state’s future than education, describing it as the most reliable path to long-term development and stability.
He made the remark on Saturday at the 2nd Combined Convocation Ceremony of Sule Lamido University, Kafin Hausa, held at the institution’s Convocation Arena.
The governor emphasised that education remains the most sustainable investment for any society, noting that human resources are the greatest asset of any entity.
According to a statement by the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Hamisu Mohammed Gumel, the ceremony featured graduates from six academic sessions spanning 2018/2019 to 2024/2025, alongside the conferment of honorary doctorate degrees on distinguished personalities.
Namadi described the occasion as a major milestone in the university’s development, reflecting steady progress since its establishment just over a decade ago.
He congratulated the graduates and the university community, describing the event as historic and memorable.
The governor acknowledged the contributions of the institution’s founders and successive administrators, attributing its growth to sustained effort and commitment.
Reiterating his administration’s policy direction, Namadi said education remains central to governance, revealing that between 26 and 30 per cent of the state budget has consistently been allocated to the sector in recent years.
He said the investment has improved infrastructure, teaching and learning outcomes, increased enrolment, and reduced the number of out-of-school children.
The governor also disclosed that eight senior secondary schools have been upgraded into centres of excellence to boost technical and vocational education and training.
He added that the state is strengthening technical education by upgrading the College of Remedial and Advanced Studies in Babura to align with the National TVET curriculum.
On higher education expansion, Namadi confirmed the state’s takeover of a private university in Majia, Taura Local Government Area, with plans to convert it into a specialised institution for medical and allied health sciences under a public-private partnership.
He noted that accreditation processes have been completed, while a bill to formalise the transition is before the state legislature.
At Sule Lamido University, the governor listed ongoing projects including a Faculty of Medicine, student hostels, staff quarters, a sabbatical lodge, a wetland research centre and a new convocation arena.
A total of 4,109 Bachelor’s degrees were awarded at the ceremony, which also featured the installation of the Emir of Katagum, Alhaji Umar Faruk II, as the second Chancellor of the university, alongside the conferment of honorary degrees on three distinguished individuals.
Usman Muhammed Zaria
