The Jigawa State Government has paid tribute to the founding fathers, past leaders, traditional rulers, civil servants and citizens whose contributions have shaped the state over the past 35 years.
Governor Umar A. Namadi made the remarks in a special anniversary message to mark the 35th anniversary of the creation of Jigawa State.
On August 27, 1991, the Federal Military Government under the leadership of the then Head of State, General Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida, created Jigawa as part of a restructuring of the federation aimed at bringing governance closer to the people and promoting balanced development.
The state was carved out of the old Kano State, with Dutse becoming its capital.
In the anniversary message, Governor Namadi described the 35th anniversary as a historic moment of thanksgiving, remembrance, reflection and renewed commitment to the development of the state
He said the occasion provided an opportunity to honour the patriots whose vision, advocacy, sacrifice and public service contributed to the creation and development of Jigawa.
Namadi particularly acknowledged the services of successive military administrators and civilian governors who had led the state since its creation.
Those honoured included the pioneer Military Administrator, Major-General Mueen Olayinka Sule; the first elected civilian governor, Alhaji Ali Sa’ad Birnin-Kudu; Brigadier General Ibrahim Aliyu; Colonel Rasheed Alade Shekoni; Lieutenant Colonel Abubakar Sadi Zakariya Maimalari; Alhaji Ibrahim Saminu Turaki; former Governor Sule Lamido; former Governor Muhammad Badaru Abubakar; as well as deputy governors and other public officials.
The governor also recognised the contributions of legislators, judges, commissioners, heads of service, permanent secretaries, local government leaders and civil servants who had contributed to the growth of the state in different capacities.
He commended traditional institutions across the Hadejia, Kazaure, Gumel, Ringim and Dutse emirates for their role in preserving the state’s cultural heritage, maintaining peace and serving as a bridge between government and communities.
According to him, village and ward heads, Islamic scholars and community leaders have also played important roles in maintaining peace and social cohesion across the state.
Governor Namadi said the progress recorded by Jigawa over the years was not the achievement of government alone, but the result of the collective efforts of its people.
He listed farmers, traders, teachers, health workers, artisans, scholars, entrepreneurs, security personnel, religious leaders and public officers among those who had contributed to building the state.
The governor said the people of Jigawa had over the years demonstrated resilience, discipline, unity and commitment to the progress of the state.
He said the best way to honour the founding fathers and past leaders was not merely by remembering their names but by preserving the ideals of peace, justice, accountability, opportunity and responsible leadership.
“As Governor, I recognise that the greatest tribute we can pay to our founding fathers and past leaders is not merely to remember their names, but to keep faith with their ideals and exemplary leadership,” Namadi said.
He urged the people to continue protecting peace, strengthening justice, expanding opportunities, caring for vulnerable citizens, protecting public resources and investing in young people.
The governor also called for the development of strong institutions capable of outliving successive administrations.
He described the 35th anniversary as an opportunity to “honour yesterday, serve today and prepare for tomorrow,” while reaffirming his administration’s commitment to building what he described as a greater Jigawa.
Namadi said his administration was pursuing a development agenda anchored on sustainable development, socioeconomic wellbeing, peace and prosperity for all residents.
He therefore appealed to the people of Jigawa to continue to give the government their understanding, patience and support as it implements its transformative agenda.
He prayed to Almighty Allah to reward those who contributed to the state’s development, forgive those who had died and continue to bless Jigawa State and Nigeria.
