Jigawa approves N9bn for livestock, healthcare, workers’ welfare

The Jigawa State Executive Council (SEC) has approved projects and programmes worth over ₦9 billion aimed at boosting livestock production, workers’ welfare, healthcare delivery and education sector.

The approvals were made at the council meeting presided over by Governor Mallam Umar Namadi.

The resolutions were contained in a statement by the Commissioner for Information, Youth, Sports and Culture, Mr. Sagir Musa Ahmed, in Dutse.

According to the statement, the council approved ₦3.341 billion for the implementation of the state dairy production programme, a strategic initiative designed to transform the livestock sector, create employment opportunities and improve household incomes.

They also approved ₦923.67 million for the 2026 workers’ agricultural support programme (Rainy Season Phase IV), aimed at encouraging civil servants to engage in farming as part of efforts to strengthen food security and improve their economic wellbeing.

In a relief for retirees, the council approved an increase in the minimum monthly pension from ₦12,000 to ₦20,000, effective from July 1.

To finance the upward review, the government approved an annual expenditure of ₦2.069 billion for state and local government pensioners.

As part of efforts to improve healthcare delivery, the council approved ₦2.136 billion for the installation of solar-powered systems at Birnin Kudu General Hospital, Ringim General Hospital, Kazaure Specialist Hospital and Bulangu Cottage Hospital.

The project is expected to guarantee uninterrupted electricity supply, improve the quality of healthcare services and reduce energy costs at the affected health facilities.

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The council also approved ₦581.668 million for the procurement of eight vehicles, 30 laptop computers and 100 desktop computers for the Jigawa State Senior Secondary Education Board (JSSSEB) and agencies under the Ministry of Higher Education, Science and Technology.

The government noted that the equipment will strengthen monitoring, improve administrative efficiency and enhance service delivery across the education sector.

Meanwhile, the council expressed sympathy to families affected by the recent rainstorm that wreaked havoc in parts of the state.

It directed the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and the State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) to immediately provide relief materials and emergency assistance to the affected victims.

The council assured residents that the government will continue assessing the extent of the damage to ensure that all affected communities receive adequate support.

It urged members of the public to observe safety precautions throughout the rainy season.