Jigawa State Government

By Muhammad Abubakar Tahir

Jigawa State has, in recent years, earned praise for its progressive policy of offering automatic employment to university graduates who finish with First Class degrees. It is a remarkable gesture, one that highlights the state government’s commitment to education, excellence, and the future of its youth.

However, as commendable as this initiative is, it also calls for reflection. The state government must review the policy to ensure that other brilliant and hardworking graduates are not left behind, particularly those with a Cumulative Grade Point Average (CGPA) between 4.0 and 4.49.

These students, though officially classified as Second Class Upper (2.1), have equally demonstrated distinction, resilience, and intellectual depth. In some disciplines — especially the technical and science-based ones — attaining a First Class degree is extraordinarily demanding. 

Yet many of these students, with CGPAs slightly below the First-Class cut-off, are as competent and deserving of opportunities as their peers who crossed the 4.5 mark. Around the world, employers and institutions recognise this nuance. Graduates with Second Class Upper degrees are widely regarded as strong performers and are eligible for both public- and private-sector roles. 

They also qualify for prestigious international fellowships and postgraduate scholarships. Indeed, scholarship programmes such as Chevening, Commonwealth, and several others typically set their minimum CGPA requirement between 3.5 and 3.7 on a 5.0 scale — comfortably within the Second Class Upper range. 

This shows that the global academic and professional community values not only top-tier excellence but also consistent, well-rounded performance. It is on this basis that Governor Mallam Umar Namadi is urged to broaden the scope of Jigawa’s First-Class employment initiative. 

By extending consideration to graduates within the 4.0 to 4.49 range, the government would not only promote fairness but also maximise the state’s pool of talent. Such an inclusive policy could be designed to include a fair, transparent screening process that rewards skill, creativity, and innovation — qualities not confined to a single grade level.

A similar example can be seen in neighbouring Kano State, where the government recently introduced a domestic scholarship scheme that also accommodates Second Class Upper graduates. Many beneficiaries of that programme come from humble backgrounds, and their stories have shown how such policies can transform lives and families. 

Jigawa State can take inspiration from this model and adapt it to its own development priorities. Governor Namadi has already demonstrated a listening and compassionate leadership style, particularly through his swift interventions during last Ramadan when he responded to citizens’ needs with empathy and urgency. 

Extending opportunities to deserving 2.1 graduates would further strengthen public confidence in his administration and reinforce his image as a people-centred leader who believes in inclusive governance.

History will not forget him if he heeds this call. His legacy will be remembered not just for rewarding excellence, but for redefining it — by recognising that excellence wears many shades. That brilliance sometimes exists just a decimal point below a First Class.

In the end, what truly defines a visionary leader is not only how he uplifts the best but how he ensures that no capable hand is left idle when there is work to be done for the good of the state.

Muhammad Abubakar Tahir is a journalist based in Hadejia, Jigawa State. He can be reached via abubakarmtahir81@gmail.com.

By Garba Sidi

The strategy used to support His Excellency, the Governor of Jigawa State, Malam Umar Namadi, made his emergence seem like a golden opportunity, especially for the people of Hadejia. That’s why people from this region, regardless of political affiliation, united in full support behind him.

In fact, it got to the point where anyone who didn’t support him was branded as someone who didn’t care about Hadejia’s interests. Youths and other residents were mobilised in large numbers to vote overwhelmingly for him, resulting in a decisive defeat for his opponent. All this was done with the hope that having “their son” in power would finally bring the kind of development other governors had brought to their own regions.

BUT DID IT BRING GOOD RRSUL?

The general assumption is that if a governor comes from a certain area, that area should naturally receive more projects, opportunities, and attention than others. Unfortunately, in the case of Malam Umar Namadi, this has not been the reality.

Right from the appointment of commissioners, things started to take a different turn. Prominent politicians from Hadejia—those who invested their money, time, and energy into mobilising support—were sidelined. Instead, individuals who contributed nothing to the campaign were brought in and handed key positions. These new appointees now operate as they please, whether their actions are right or wrong.

This understandably caused frustration among the loyal politicians, many of whom withdrew, allowing their protégés to take to social media to criticise the government openly. Their anger is rooted in the fact that they were abandoned, while others who made no sacrifices are now enjoying the fruits of power.

Even in terms of developmental projects, Hadejia has not seen any significant attention that reflects the governor’s origins. For instance, the Specialist Hospital that the former governor and the Current Minister of Defence, Badaru Abubakar, initiated has been abandoned under the current administration, despite the region’s urgent need for it, particularly due to the high incidence of kidney-related diseases. Patients are frequently referred to Federal Medical Centre Nguru, Rasheed Shekoni Specialist Hospital, Dutse and Aminu Kano Teaching Hospital.

So far, the government has no tangible project it can point to as a benefit for the people of Hadejia, despite their overwhelming support. Ironically, the previous governor—who isn’t even from Hadejia—executed more meaningful projects there. Clearly, “Kwalliya ba ta biya kuɗin Sabulu ba”.

WHO IS CRITICIZING MALAM UMAR NAMADI’S GOVERNMENT?

Some supporters of Governor Malam Umar Danmodi claim there is a grand conspiracy to sabotage his government, supposedly because it originates from Hadejia. They even suggest that people from other regions, aided by unpatriotic elements within Hadejia, are driving the opposition. But that narrative is misleading. And the critics of this government can be broadly categorised into three groups:

THE POLITICIANS.

These are politicians who worked tirelessly and spent their resources to bring this administration to power. After the victory, they were cast aside. Their disappointment and frustration have led them to form alliances and challenge the government.

LOYALISTS OF THE FORMER GOVERNOR.

While not necessarily politicians, these individuals are close to the former governor. They took offense when Malam Umar began probing the previous administration and took actions perceived as targeting their benefactor. In retaliation, they began opposing the current government, criticizing its every move and encouraging others to do the same.

THE COMMON PEOPLE.

These are ordinary citizens who feel betrayed. Despite numerous announcements of new projects and the release of funds, they see little to no work on the ground. They witness government officials living lavishly while their schools lack teachers, hospitals lack doctors and medicines, and basic infrastructure is crumbling. These are the same citizens whose votes made this government possible, and now they are rightfully speaking out. So, is it a crime for the people of Hadejia to fall into any of these groups?

Some people are trying to twist the narrative, making it seem like the government is being attacked simply because it’s from Hadejia. But the reality is this: it’s the government being critized, not the region.

WHAT’S THE SOLUTION?

There is still time for reflection and correction. The administration should reach out to the neglected politicians from Hadejia who worked hard for its victory. Offer them a sincere apology and reintegrate them into the fold. Once that happens, their supporters will follow suit, and the political tension will ease.

Likewise, the faction loyal to the former governor and now Minister of Defense, Badaru Abubakar, should be approached with humility. Apologize where necessary, stop discriminating against his allies, and rebuild that bridge. Doing so will reduce hostility from that quarter.

Lastly, address the real issues affecting the people: poor healthcare, teacher shortages, and neglected infrastructure. Let the people see and feel the benefit of the support they gave. Prove to them that they made the right choice.

CONCLUSION

No one fights their own child. The people of Hadejia do not hate Malam Umar Namadi. They are simply disappointed by the neglect and lack of attention he has shown them—despite the overwhelming support they gave him when he needed it most.

Once he wakes up to this reality and takes action—not just words—to correct his course, the people will forgive and support him again.

May Allah guide us to do what is right.

I wrote the Article in Hausa, and I used ChatGPT to translate it into English.

Dear Honourable Yaro Abba Ari,

I write to you as a deeply concerned indigene of Hadejia Local Government Area, more specifically, a resident of Dubantu Quarters. I do so with a strong sense of responsibility and hope, believing that your esteemed office, under your capable leadership, will give due attention to the pressing issues that have plagued our community for quite some time.

First and foremost, I would like to sincerely commend your administration for the developmental strides made in various parts of the local government area. These achievements reflect your commitment to progress and service delivery. However, I am compelled to draw your immediate attention to some ongoing challenges that continue to affect the people of Dubantu Quarters — challenges that, if not addressed, may further deteriorate the well-being and safety of our community.

The first major issue of concern is the worsening condition of the drainage systems in Dubantu Quarters. Every year, particularly during the rainy season, our community suffers from excessive waterlogging and flooding. Rainwater, due to the absence or blockage of proper drainage, flows freely over the roads and into homes, causing significant disruption and damage. The situation has unfortunately become a recurring crisis that leads to the destruction of properties and, in the worst cases, loss of innocent lives. Residents live in constant anxiety as heavy rains turn roads into rivers, making movement dangerous and threatening the safety of families.

Secondly, I would like to bring to your kind attention the growing security and social concerns in specific parts of Dubantu Quarters — particularly areas that remain in complete darkness at night due to a lack of public lighting infrastructure. These dark zones have become gathering points for immoral and misguided youths, who often engage in illicit activities such as the abuse of toxic substances — including syrul (codeine cough syrup), ganja, and other harmful drugs. These activities not only endanger the lives of the individuals involved but also pose a significant threat to the safety and peace of law-abiding citizens, especially during the night hours.

Despite numerous efforts by responsible members of the community to curb this growing menace, their attempts have been largely ineffective due to the absence of necessary support, tools, and enforcement capabilities. The community is doing its best with the limited resources at its disposal, but the situation clearly calls for strong governmental intervention. 

As a result, and in the spirit of community development, I humbly and earnestly appeal to you to take the following specific actions:

Reconstruction and proper maintenance of Drainage systems in Dubantu Quarters will help ensure that rainwater is channelled correctly, reducing the devastating impact of seasonal flooding and safeguarding the lives and properties of the residents.

Installation of solar-powered Street lights in critical dark areas within Dubantu Quarters. Improved lighting will not only enhance visibility and security but will also deter criminal and immoral behaviour that currently thrives under the cover of darkness.

Collaborative Engagement with Law Enforcement Agencies and Community Leaders to Develop and Implement a Strategic, Community-Driven Solution to the Issue of Drug Abuse. This should include awareness campaigns, youth sensitisation programs, and the creation of positive alternatives that engage our young people in meaningful and productive activities.

Your timely intervention in these matters will go a long way in alleviating the hardship currently faced by the residents of Dubantu Quarters. Moreover, it will serve to reaffirm the trust and confidence that the people of Hadejia Local Government Area have placed in your leadership.

We remain optimistic that you will treat these concerns with the urgency and seriousness they deserve, and that your office will take immediate steps to implement lasting solutions.

Thank you very much for your time, attention, and anticipated positive response.

Yours sincerely,

Garba Sidi

An Indigene of Hadejia Local Government Area

sidihadejia@gmail.com

Assalamu Alaikum Your Excellency,

I trust this message finds you well. May Almighty Allah accept our ibadah and make us among those pardoned in this blessed month.

I am writing to express my concerns about the Ramadan Feeding Program, which began last week. It is imperative that thorough measures are taken to ensure that the entire N4.8 billion budget reaches the deserving people of our state.

It is evident that the program has been plagued by numerous issues, including a lack of proper hygiene during food preparation, insufficient nutritional quality, and the replacement of community members with individuals from different areas, among other concerns.

Your Excellency, you know that N4.8 billion is a substantial amount—funds that could have been allocated for infrastructure and human capital development. However, you used it to alleviate the economic burden on the masses. This makes it even more critical to ensure that the program is implemented with the highest level of transparency and efficiency.

In this regard, I urge Your Excellency to involve Community-Based Organizations (CBOs) in each local government area to enhance accountability and transparency in executing the program. A case in point is our neighboring state of Kano, whose population is nearly double that of Jigawa. They allocated N8 billion for their Ramadan Feeding Program, and anyone can attest to the high quality of the food distributed, as strict measures regarding safety, quality, and nutrition have been met.

Meanwhile, in Jigawa, some images have surfaced showing a lack of proper hygiene, inadequate nutritional content, and an overall lack of transparency in the process. Since you are already planning a visit, I urge you to take this opportunity to probe some of the concerns raised about the program. It would be unethical to ignore how such a massive sum is being managed.

I commend your unwavering commitment to improving the lives of the people of Jigawa. However, Your Excellency, do not allow these successes to overshadow critical issues in other initiatives under your leadership.

Recently, we heard claims from the Commissioner of Health that the people of Birnin Kudu were denied access to billions of naira meant for the health sector. These concerns warrant urgent investigation.

Your initiative, Gwamnati da Jama’a (Government and the People), is commendable. I urge you to take this open letter as a direct message from the masses, calling for necessary action.

As a journalist, my responsibility is to ensure that Jigawa excels in every aspect and that the government remains accountable. I sincerely hope that Your Excellency will take the necessary measures to address these concerns and maintain the trust and respect of the people you serve.

Muhammad Abubakar Tahir is a freelance journalist, PRNigeria fellow and PDGP fellow. He can be contacted atabubakarmtahir81@gmail.com.

By Garba Sidi 

On Monday night, 27th January 2025, the Jigawa State Commissioner for Sports and Information announced to journalists that the State Executive Council approved the sum of ₦4.8 billion for the 2025 Ramadan Feeding Program.  

An estimated 2022 population survey indicated that Jigawa State has approximately 7,499,100 people, making it the eighth-largest state by population. Of this population, 45.2% are below the age of 15, while 49% are between 15 and 59. Females constitute the majority at 50.4%, compared to 49.6% males. Understanding these demographic trends is critical for addressing the state’s challenges.  

I oppose the State Council’s move because the state has many pressing issues that require far greater government attention than a Ramadan feeding program. These funds would be better spent addressing healthcare and education problems.  

According to the National Mass Education Programme Initiative (NMPI 2022), over half of the children (51.1%) aged 6–15 in Jigawa State do not attend school. Additionally, Jigawa is one of the poorest states in Nigeria, with a poverty rate of 87.02%, reflecting severe challenges across economic, health, and education sectors.  

To clarify the situation for Jigawa residents, we must examine how last year’s Ramadan feeding program was conducted. As the Commissioner for Sports and Information stated, the state government contributed 55% of the program’s funding, while local governments covered 45%.  

Jigawa has 27 local governments, each grappling with dozens of unresolved issues. Their grants are insufficient to address even a quarter of these problems, and their chairpersons have done little tangible work for the people’s well-being. If 45% of local government funds are diverted to Ramadan feeding, I doubt they will even have enough to pay workers’ salaries.  

Last year, 609 centres distributed food (Kosai [bean cake], Kunu [porridge], and Kolo rice) during Ramadan. This year, the government intends to increase the number of centres to 630, with each centre providing meals for 300 people daily. Multiplying 300 by 630 results in a total of 189,000 people fed each day. Over 20 days, this programme would reach 3,780,000 people.  

Let us compare this to the approximate population of each local government and the number of beneficiaries:  

Dutse 400,000  

Hadejia 350,000  

Kazaure  300,000  

Ringim 280,000  

Gumel  270,000  

Birnin Kudu 250,000  

Kafin Hausa 240,000  

Gwaram  230,000  

Jahun 220,000  

Gagarawa 210,000  

Maigatari 200,000  

Babura 190,000  

Guri 180,000  

Kiri Kasama 170,000  

Auyo 160,000  

Malam Madori 150,000  

Gwiwa 140,000  

Yankwashi 130,000  

Taura 120,000  

Roni 110,000  

Sule Tankarkar 100,000  

Garki 90,000  

Buji 80,000  

Kaugama 70,000  

Birniwa 60,000  

Kiri Kasamma 50,000  

Miga 40,000  

If this huge amount of money were budgeted for healthcare or education, all Jigawa residents would benefit. Everyone falls ill at some point, and education is essential for ensuring our children live as dignified humans—not animals.  

Garba Sidi wrote via sidihadejia@gmail.com.

By Uzair Adam

The Jigawa State Judicial Service Commission (JSC) has taken disciplinary action against several judicial staff for misconduct, including the dismissal of three officers, advising three Shari’a Court judges to resign, and reprimanding two others for dereliction of duty.

This was disclosed in a statement by Abbas Wangara, Director of Protocol and Publicity, Jigawa State Judiciary, on Sunday in Dutse.

According to the statement, the disciplinary measures were approved during the commission’s 178th meeting, held on January 7, following investigations into violations of judicial procedures and rules.

“In the outcome of the meeting signed by Auwalu Dan’Azumi, Secretary of the JSC, the commission received the report of an investigation committee from the High Court department in respect of two officers,” the statement said.

The affected officers, Iyal Ibrahim, a Higher Registrar on Grade Level 08, and Baffa Alhaji, a Principal Registrar on Grade Level 14, were found guilty of the illegal sale of two vehicles, exhibits of the Federal High Court, Dutse.

The commission terminated their appointments in line with Rule 5 (4) & (6) of the Jigawa State Judiciary Scheme of Service 2006 and Section 41 of the Judicial Service Commission Law, Cap. 20 Laws of Jigawa State 2012.

Additionally, the commission dismissed Abdu Aujara, a Chief Clerical Officer, for suppressing N965,000, a litigant’s deposit in a case of recovery filed by Ja’iz Bank before the Chief Magistrates Court Jahun. His dismissal was also in accordance with Section 41 of the Judicial Service Commission Law.

The commission further acted on reports from the Judiciary Public Complaint Committee (JPCC) against several Shari’a Court judges. One of them, Adamu Farin-Dutse, was accused of abusing judicial powers and misapplying the law.

Despite previous warnings, he was found liable for misconduct and advised to resign within two weeks.

Similarly, Muhammad Usman, another Shari’a Court judge, was accused of issuing a writ of possession before delivering judgment, thereby violating due process. He was also advised to resign within two weeks.

In another case, Judge Usman Zubair was found guilty of judicial irregularities, including mishandling inheritance cases and allowing unauthorized individuals to benefit from rulings.

He was similarly advised to resign. Two magistrates were reprimanded. Magistrate Munnir Abdullahi received a warning for improperly converting a civil matter to a criminal case and acting in a partisan manner.

Magistrate Yakubu Ibrahim was warned for abusing power and making derogatory remarks toward a litigant at Chief Magistrate Court Maigatari.

Wangara emphasized that these disciplinary actions reflect the commission’s commitment to ensuring a corruption-free judiciary and upholding professionalism and discipline among judicial staff.

He assured that the JSC would continue to take necessary measures to maintain standards and foster a fair working environment.

The commission reiterated its dedication to promoting a transparent and efficient judiciary in the state.

By Isah Dahiru

On Friday, December 6, 2024, while skywatchers marvelled at the serene night sky adorned with celestial wonders, a different spectacle unfolded in Jigawa State. Governor Namadi, alongside his entourage of government officials, presented the much-anticipated 2025 Appropriation Bill to the State Assembly. Tagged the “Budget of Innovation & Transformation for Greater Jigawa”, the document was intended to embody progress and forward-thinking leadership.

At first glance, the title seems aspirational, promising groundbreaking initiatives to propel Jigawa into an era of sustainable development. However, a closer examination of the budget reveals glaring contradictions, misplaced priorities, and a lack of the innovation and transformation it proclaims.

A Misleading Budget Title

Though grammatically correct, the ambitious budget title seems to serve as a deceptive marketing strategy rather than an accurate reflection of its contents. Far from being innovative or transformational, the budget largely perpetuates conventional methods of governance, burdening the state with debt while ignoring pressing human capital development needs. A more suitable title could have highlighted its illogical allocation and amateurish approach, as the document fails to address critical issues facing the state.

Unrealistic Revenue Projections

The proposed total budget stands at a staggering NGN698.3 billion, with expected revenues broken down as follows:

• Federation Account Allocation: NGN34 billion
• VAT Share: NGN80 billion
• Other Federal Government Contributions: NGN134.1 billion
• Internally Generated Revenue (IGR): NGN130.6825 billion

Governor Namadi’s administration has estimated NGN219.517 billion in loans to finance the deficit, an amount alarmingly higher than the state’s entire IGR. This reliance on borrowing raises significant concerns about the sustainability of the state’s fiscal policy. Borrowing such colossal sums without substantial revenue-generation mechanisms is reckless and poses long-term risks to Jigawa’s economic stability.

The governor’s failure to leverage Jigawa’s rich agricultural resources, untapped natural wealth, and the potential of smart farming to bolster IGR demonstrates a lack of foresight. Instead of pursuing innovative strategies to grow revenue, the administration has opted for unsustainable borrowing, leaving future generations to bear the burden.

Misplaced Capital Expenditure Priorities

A whopping 76% of the budget (NGN536.750 billion) is allocated for capital projects, including the construction of 45 new roads spanning 830 kilometres. While infrastructure is essential, this allocation overlooks the state’s urgent needs in human capital development, education, and healthcare.

Recent tragedies highlight the misplaced priorities of this budget. From the Majia tanker explosion, which claimed over 200 lives, to the tragic road accidents in Adiyani (Guri LGA) and Auyo LGA, which resulted in the deaths of women, children, and youth, road safety remains a pressing issue. Constructing new roads without addressing the underlying factors contributing to road traffic accidents is counterproductive. Jigawa needs safer transportation systems, not a roadmap to more tragedies.

Furthermore, questions about the NGN30 billion mobilisation payment for these road projects linger. It is unclear whether this payment adheres to constitutional provisions or represents the notorious 10% kickback culture often associated with government contracts. Transparency in budget execution is non-negotiable, and the state deserves clarity on these expenditures.

A Failing Healthcare System

Jigawa’s healthcare sector is in crisis, yet the budget allocates insufficient resources to address the challenges. Since June 2024, over 25 professional healthcare providers have resigned due to poor remuneration and working conditions. This mass exodus has left hospitals understaffed and unable to deliver quality care, pushing Jigawa’s residents into greater health risks.

Governor Namadi’s “J-Health” initiative—designed to improve healthcare delivery—has proven ineffective. The program is plagued by untrained personnel and a lack of infrastructure, turning hospitals into death traps rather than centres of healing. Ironically, the governor does not rely on “J-Health” workers for his medical care, further exposing the inadequacies of the initiative.

Neglecting Education Amid a Crisis

The BBC recently reported that Jigawa has one of the highest numbers of out-of-school children in Nigeria. Yet, the budget’s allocation to education falls woefully short of addressing this crisis. With thousands of children lacking access to quality education, the future of Jigawa’s youth hangs in the balance. Instead of investing in human capital through education and skill development, the government prioritises infrastructure projects that offer minimal long-term benefits to the people.

Leadership Is About Priorities

Leadership is not about laying asphalt or unveiling ambitious-sounding projects but about using available resources to deliver well-tailored programs that directly impact citizens’ lives. Governor Namadi’s budget fails to address the core challenges facing Jigawa State, including:

• The alarming rate of out-of-school children
• The exodus of healthcare professionals
• The rising tide of road traffic accidents
• The lack of sustainable revenue-generation mechanisms

Jigawa needs a government that prioritises its people—one that invests in human capital, builds safe and functional infrastructure, and ensures fiscal responsibility. The 2025 Appropriation Bill, as it stands, is far from being the “Budget of Innovation & Transformation for Greater Jigawa.” It is a missed opportunity to create meaningful change and lay a solid foundation for the state’s future.

Governor Namadi must rethink his approach, listen to the cries of his people, and refocus on what truly matters: the well-being, education, and prosperity of Jigawa’s citizens. Only then can the state genuinely embark on a path of innovation and transformation.

Isah Dahiru, B. Pharm. MPSN, wrote via easerdahiru@gmail.com.

By Dr Najeeb Maigatari

Your Excellency, I hope this letter finds you in good health. As I do not have the means through which my message could reach you, I am compelled to write this open letter to draw your attention to a menace threatening our healthcare system. That is the well-known Japa syndrome that has recently plagued our dear State.

I want to extend my heartfelt condolences to you and the good people of Jigawa State over the tragedy that befell the people of Majia a few weeks ago. This unforeseen event led to the loss of lives of over a hundred people and left several others with varying degrees of injuries. My heart goes out to the bereaving families of all those affected, and I pray that Allah repose the souls of the deceased and heal the injured. Amen.  

Returning to the purpose of writing this letter, Your Excellency, I would like to provide some details about how our dear state used to be. It was undoubtedly one of the states with the best healthcare systems and the highest number of practising medical doctors in Northern Nigeria. At one point, it was akin to a medical hub attracting patients and medical professionals from neighbouring states due to its subsidised healthcare, efficient service delivery, and overall welfare of health workers and patients. 

Since its creation in the early 1990s, the State has made giant strides in providing its citizens with effective and reliable healthcare services. To mention a few, various successive administrations have invested heavily in training Medical doctors and other health professionals, within and outside the country, in varying capacities to ensure effective healthcare delivery to the good people of the state. 

Similarly, Jigawa State has awarded scholarships with bond agreements to local and foreign medical students since time immemorial. It has produced medical graduates from various reputable institutions within and outside the country. In addition, it was one of the pioneer states among its peers to implement the sponsorship of medical doctors through postgraduate medical training programs to further their studies, a policy several other states would later adopt. 

Your Excellency, I can say with immense pride that our healthcare system performance score was impressive overall. It used to be one of the best in the country. The services rendered were affordable and accessible to the masses, and the welfare of patients and healthcare professionals was optimum. For instance, at some point, healthcare workers in Jigawa State were earning more than their federal counterparts. 

Unfortunately, things have now taken a turn for the worse. Our healthcare system is not only ‘underperforming’ below standard by all measures but also one of the worst in the country. We are now a shadow of our past. Jigawa State has a patient-doctor ratio of 1:35,000, far exceeding the WHO recommendation of 1:600, making it one of the states with the worst healthcare systems in Nigeria. This is indeed a troubling situation. 

Over the past few years, Jigawa State has witnessed an unprecedented mass exodus of medical doctors to other neighbouring states owing to poor welfare, overburdening workload, and inadequate health facilities in hospitals, among other factors. Regrettably, this internal Japa syndrome ravaging the state continues to overstretch our already fragile healthcare system. 

To put things into perspective, according to data obtained from the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) Jigawa State branch from 2013 to 2024, of the 264 doctors who reported back to the state for bonding agreements, only 40 stayed after completing their terms. This is to say that more than 220 medical doctors have left to continue their careers elsewhere because Jigawa is fast becoming a nightmare and a difficult place for medical doctors.

It is worth noting that the state produced over 500 medical doctors (both foreign and locally trained) during the same period. Still, only 214 are on the state payroll, of which only 77 are currently manning the state’s primary and secondary institutions. They are about to round up their bond agreements by the end of the year; 89 are in training as either house officers or doing national service. The state has less than ten consultants and only 12 doctors in residency training. Altogether, fewer than 100 doctors attend to a population of over 7.5 million. 

This data suggests that while the state is doing a good job at producing medical doctors (both local and foreign), its retention capacity is very poor. The State will be left with no Medical doctors in the coming years if things continue at this pace. It has to either employ doctors from neighbouring states or overwork the few that stay to death if at all there would be! Your Excellency, this is only the tip of the iceberg as far as this crisis is concerned. This menace has no end. 

As a citizen concerned about the interests of Jigawa State, I implore you to declare a state of emergency on health in Jigawa State and engage with relevant stakeholders to find a way to end this worsening Japa syndrome, which is wreaking havoc in our dear state.  

The most crucial step to addressing this issue is the urgent need for the improvement of the overall welfare of the few Medical doctors and other healthcare professionals left in the state who are already struggling with chronic fatigue due to overwhelming patient workload. This singular act will not only boost the morale of these weary Medical professionals but relieve them of their burden. Still, it will also attract others from various States to compensate for the acute shortage of Medical doctors in the state. It will also improve the effectiveness of healthcare services delivered to the people. In other words, we can go back to our glory days. 

 Various States have already employed this strategy. Your Excellency, Jigawa State can not afford to lose the doctors it invests heavily in. This could amount to a work in futility! 

In addition, the government should seriously consider domesticating the Medical Residency Training Fund (MRTF), which will help train experts in various medical specialities in the state. This would help address the shortage of registrars and consultants in our tertiary facilities and provide an avenue for a healthy and excellent research environment in the State.

Other measures include equipping our already existing hospitals with state-of-the-art facilities and subsidising healthcare services, especially to women, young children and those suffering from such chronic debilitating conditions as sickle cell disease and chronic liver and kidney diseases. Your excellency, I believe these are some ways that could help end this menace threatening our very existence, help revitalise the State’s healthcare and improve its delivery to the citizens of Jigawa State. 

 Najeeb Maigatari is a Medical doctor. He writes from Dutse, Jigawa State, via maigatari313@gmail.com.

By Uzair Adam

Jigawa State Governor Malam Umar A. Namadi has ordered the immediate suspension of Auwalu Danladi Sankara, Commissioner for Special Duties, following serious allegations raised by the Kano State Hisbah Board.

The suspension, announced in a statement signed by Malam Bala Ibrahim, Secretary to the Government of Jigawa State, is intended to allow a thorough investigation into the matter.

Sankara is accused of engaging in an illicit relationship with a married woman, among other offenses.

The Kano Hisbah Board confirmed the arrest of Sankara on Friday after tracking his activities.

According to the board’s Director General, Dr. Abba Sufi, Sankara was caught in an uncompleted building with a married woman, following complaints from her husband’s younger brother.

“We have arrested Auwalu Danladi Sankara, the Jigawa Commissioner, with a married woman in an uncompleted building,” Dr. Sufi told reporters, adding that the arrest was part of a broader investigation into Sankara’s alleged immoral behavior.

The woman’s husband, Nasiru Bulama, had filed a formal complaint with the Kano Police, Department of State Services, and Hisbah Board, accusing the commissioner of having an affair with his wife, Tasleem Baba Nabegu, the mother of his two children.

In addition to the adultery accusations, Sankara is reportedly facing charges for allegedly operating illicit drug centers under names like Picklock and 360.

The Jigawa State Government emphasized that the suspension is a precautionary step to ensure transparency and integrity in the state’s administration, with Governor Namadi committed to upholding accountability in governance.

“The suspension is a precautionary measure intended to facilitate a fair investigation,” said Bala Ibrahim, underscoring the government’s dedication to ethical standards and its responsibility to the people of Jigawa.

By Uzair Adam 

Governor Umar Namadi of Jigawa State has suspended his Special Adviser on Salary and Pensions, Alhaji Bashir Ado, following a premature announcement regarding a proposed N70,000 minimum wage.

The suspension was confirmed in a statement issued by Bala Ibrahim, the Secretary to the State Government, in Dutse on Saturday. 

The statement revealed that a circulating media report claiming the governor had approved the new minimum wage was both inaccurate and premature.

“This is an embarrassing situation, as the committee tasked with advising on the appropriate wage, led by the Head of the State Civil Service, has yet to finalize its report,” Ibrahim explained.

Due to the incident, the governor has approved Ado’s immediate suspension pending the outcome of an investigation. 

A committee, chaired by the State Attorney-General and Commissioner of Justice, Bello Abdulkadir, has been set up to probe the source and intent behind the statement.

The committee, which includes Commissioner for Information, Youth, Sports and Culture Sagir Musa, Commissioner for Health Dr Abdullahi Muhammad, and Muhammad Hahaha, Permanent Secretary of Establishment and Service Matters, is expected to submit its report within two weeks.