From the earliest days of institution-building to the present, Jigawa has advanced through the steady labour of its people
By Moses Okorie
Jigawa State Governor, Umar Namadi, has paid tribute to the founding fathers, past leaders and citizens whose contributions have shaped the state over the past 35 years, as the state commemorates the anniversary of its creation.
Governor Namadi, in a goodwill message marking the anniversary, said the occasion offered an opportunity to reflect on Jigawa’s journey, appreciate the sacrifices of its pioneers and renew commitment to building a peaceful, just and prosperous society.
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. The state was carved out of the old Kano State, with Dutse as its capital.
Namadi expressed gratitude to Almighty Allah for sustaining the state and acknowledged the vision, courage and sacrifices of those who advocated for its creation and contributed to its development.
He particularly recognised 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.
The governor also commended former deputy governors, legislators, judges, commissioners, heads of service, permanent secretaries, local government leaders and civil servants for their service to the state.
He praised traditional rulers across the Hadejia, Kazaure, Gumel, Ringim and Dutse Emirates, as well as district, village and ward heads, Islamic scholars and community leaders, for preserving Jigawa’s cultural heritage and promoting peace and unity.
According to Namadi, the progress recorded by Jigawa over the years has been driven by the collective efforts of its people, including farmers, traders, teachers, healthcare workers, artisans, entrepreneurs, scholars, security personnel and public servants.
“From the earliest days of institution-building to the present, Jigawa has advanced through the steady labour of its people,” he said.
The governor stressed that the best way to honour the state’s founding fathers was to uphold the ideals for which they stood, particularly peace, justice, responsible governance and effective management of public resources.
He said his administration would continue to prioritise sustainable development, socioeconomic wellbeing, opportunities for young people and support for vulnerable citizens.
Namadi urged the people to embrace the spirit of “honour yesterday, serve today and prepare for tomorrow,” stressing the need to build a Jigawa that is peaceful, prosperous, inclusive, disciplined and knowledge-driven.
He also called for continued support and understanding as his administration implements its development agenda, while praying for Allah’s continued blessings on Jigawa State and Nigeria.