Jigawa State, grappling with a high unemployment rate of 23.1% as of 2023, significantly above the national average, has witnessed a substantial outflow of its citizens, predominantly youth, seeking better economic prospects in urban centers like Kano, Abuja, Lagos, and Port Harcourt. This economic migration, driven by the scarcity of opportunities within the state, has left Jigawa with a depleted workforce and hindered its economic development. Recognizing the gravity of this situation, Governor Umar Namadi has initiated a compelling call to action, urging Jigawa’s economic migrants to return home and participate in the revitalized agricultural sector.
Governor Namadi’s appeal, directed at a delegation of Jigawa economic migrants residing in Abuja, underscores the transformative progress within Jigawa’s agricultural landscape. He emphasizes the creation of numerous job opportunities within the sector, assuring potential returnees that Jigawa now offers sustainable livelihoods, eliminating the need to seek employment elsewhere. The governor’s message, conveyed through a video clip, highlights the improved agricultural practices and business environment in Jigawa, promising prosperity and economic stability for those who choose to return. His administration’s commitment to agricultural development is further reinforced by the launch of a new agricultural policy centered on mechanization and enhanced irrigation infrastructure, aiming to bolster food security and generate employment.
The governor’s call for repatriation extends beyond mere economic incentives; it’s an appeal to patriotism and shared responsibility for Jigawa’s progress. While acknowledging the migrants’ discipline and upholding of Jigawa’s dignity during their time in Abuja, Namadi urges them to contribute directly to their home state’s development. He paints a compelling picture of the economic potential within Jigawa, suggesting the possibility of doubling their earnings compared to their current prospects in Abuja. He emphasizes the abundance of opportunities in the agricultural sector, citing the state’s production of crops like sesame seeds, rice, and wheat as evidence of its agricultural prowess.
Namadi’s vision for Jigawa extends beyond agricultural revitalization; it encompasses a broader strategy of transforming the state into an agro-industrial hub within Nigeria and West Africa. This ambitious goal, underpinned by the newly implemented agricultural policy, aims to attract investment, stimulate economic growth, and create a sustainable future for Jigawa’s citizens. By focusing on mechanization and irrigation infrastructure, the governor aims to modernize agricultural practices, enhance productivity, and position Jigawa as a leading agricultural force in the region. This strategic initiative seeks to not only address the current unemployment crisis but also to lay the foundation for long-term economic prosperity and self-sufficiency.
The governor’s message has resonated with the Abuja-based Jigawa migrants, who expressed gratitude for his administration’s pro-business and employment-focused programs. The migrants acknowledged their awareness of initiatives such as the summer farming program and school security, recognizing them as tangible demonstrations of the government’s commitment to empowering its citizens. These programs, designed to create immediate employment opportunities and enhance community security, serve as practical examples of the governor’s dedication to improving the lives of Jigawa’s residents. The positive response from the migrants suggests a willingness to consider the governor’s appeal and explore the potential for returning home and actively participating in Jigawa’s revitalization.
The narrative of Jigawa’s economic transformation, spearheaded by Governor Namadi’s proactive approach, represents a compelling case study in addressing unemployment and fostering economic growth. His emphasis on agricultural development, coupled with strategic investments in infrastructure and targeted programs, signifies a comprehensive strategy to create sustainable livelihoods and reverse the trend of economic migration. The migrants’ positive reception to the governor’s message further reinforces the potential for successful repatriation and the creation of a vibrant, prosperous future for Jigawa State. The governor’s vision, combined with the potential return of a skilled and motivated workforce, positions Jigawa on a promising trajectory towards economic self-reliance and sustainable development.
