…Commissions power project linking nine villages
By Umar Akilu Majeri, Dutse
Governor Umar Namadi has flagged off the construction of the Tarabu–Matarar Alhazai–Malanta–Sawo-Iyo–Gishinawo–Gafta Road and commissioned a power project executed by the state government to connect rural communities to the national grid.
The 23.4-kilometre road project, awarded to Messrs Mothercat Nigeria Limited at the cost of N17.28 billion, is one of the critical regional projects aimed at improving access roads to rural and farming communities.
Governor Namadi stated that the road passes through hard-to-reach areas of Kirikasamma and will significantly enhance agricultural activities, facilitate the transportation of produce, and strengthen the link between farmers and markets.
He stated: “We cannot overemphasize the significance of this road. It will improve agricultural activities, ease the transportation of goods, and strengthen the link between government and local communities.
“We will continue to build roads across every corner of Jigawa State to ensure access for our people, especially the farmers.”
The governor disclosed that the project is part of 12 regional road projects—out of 48 awarded in September 2024—valued at N150 billion, all designed to open up rural areas, boost agricultural productivity, and promote economic growth.
He said: “We are determined to ensure that every part of the state has access roads that support agricultural growth and connect people to opportunity.
“From the report I received today, the work is already about 20% completed. I therefore urge the contractor to speed up the pace to ensure that the work is finished on schedule. I am confident that the contractor has no outstanding certificate with the Jigawa State Government, and I expect continuous, quality work.”
He further said that the Tarabu–Matarar Alhazai–Malanta–Sawo-Iyo–Gishinawo–Gafta Road is scheduled for completion within three months, with 20 per cent of the work already completed.
In addition to the road project, the governor commissioned a power project that linked nine villages—Tage, Ilallah, Siga, Garin Wakili, Fandunan, Gafta, Baturiya, Una, and Barmaguwa—to the national electricity grid, describing it as another milestone in his administration’s commitment to improving the living standards of rural dwellers through access to power and essential infrastructure.
Governor Namadi reiterated his administration’s resolve to continue providing people-oriented projects across all local governments in the state, emphasizing that the Citizens Engagement Programme remains a vital platform for transparency, accountability, and inclusive governance.
“This programme is designed to ensure that government remains close to the people. It allows us to listen, assess our performance, and plan better in line with citizens’ priorities,” the governor stated.