By Mohammed Abubakar Dutse
As part of its deepening financial inclusion and bringing banking services to the rural communities in the state, the Jigawa state government has granted approval for the initiation of the process to obtain operational licenses for the establishment of five new Microfinance Banks in selected locations across the state.
This initiative, according to the State Commissioner for Information, Sagir Ahmed Musa, is part of the government’s broader strategy to expand financial access and deepen economic participation in rural and underserved communities.
The proposed Microfinance Banks will be established in: Birniwa; commercial town of Gujungu in Taura local government, Guri, Gwaram and Kaugama local government areas of the state.
According to the official “The Council decision reflects the commitment of His Excellency, Malam Umar A. Namadi FCA, administration effort in promoting financial inclusion as a tool for poverty reduction, local enterprise development, and grassroots economic empowerment.
“The new Microfinance is aimed at complementing existing microfinance banks in the state, providing financial services such as savings, credit, and small business support to individuals and communities that are traditionally excluded from the formal banking system.”
The commissioner also disclosed that the Council had approved contract for technical audit and planning of rooftop solar Installations Under the State Interventions Solar Solution (SI-SS) Programme, which is designed to expand solar electrification to critical sectors such as education, healthcare, and other essential public facilities across Nigeria.
The technical audit and planning phase will provide a comprehensive assessment of energy needs, infrastructure suitability, and implementation frameworks for the deployment of rooftop solar systems in selected schools, healthcare centres, and other vital public institutions across the state.
“This project reflects the administration of His Excellency, Malam Umar A. Namadi FCA’s commitment to sustainable energy solutions, climate-resilient infrastructure, and improved service delivery in essential sectors. It also aligns with his broader 12-Point agenda, particularly in strengthening access to reliable power for development.
“The Jigawa State Government remains committed to leveraging innovative energy solutions to improve the quality of life of its citizens, reduce dependence on the national grid, and promote cost-effective, clean energy alternatives for critical services.
‘The Council has approved the award of contract for the technical audit, critical assessments, and planning of rooftop solar installations across critical social institutions in the state. The contract is valued at ₦733.1 million,” he said.
The commissioner added that the Council has approved the release of funds for federal government fertiliser allocation to support small holder farmers in the state.
Consequently, he confirmed that the Council had approved the release of the sum of N 396 million for the payment of fertiliser allocated by the Federal Government, saying the special intervention is part of the federal government’s efforts to cushion the impact of the rising cost of fertiliser and boost food production nationwide.
As a result, Musa disclosed that 20 trucks of NPK fertiliser (12,000 bags) have been allocated to Jigawa at a subsidised rate of ₦33,000 per bag, noting that the FG intervention is designed to complement the ongoing efforts of the Jigawa state government under the 2025/2026 Dry Season Agricultural Programme.
“This development is in line with Governor Umar Namadi’s administration’s unwavering commitment to agricultural transformation, with a specific focus on supporting small holder farmers, increasing access to critical farm inputs, and enhancing food security across the state,” he noted
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