Ahmadu Bello Foundation hails Namadi’s commitment to development in Jigawa
The Sir Ahmadu Bello Memorial Foundation (ABMF) has commended Governor Umar Namadi of Jigawa State for his humility, simplicity and commitment to the development of Jigawa State, describing his leadership as a reflection of the values and legacy of the late Sardauna of Sokoto.
Mu’azu Babangida Aliyu, chairman of the Foundation’s Board of Trustees and former Governor of Niger State made the commendation when he led a delegation of the Board on a courtesy visit to Governor Namadi at Government House, Dutse on Friday.
Hamisu Mohammed Gumel, the chief press secretary to the Governor stated this in a statement made available to newsmen on Friday in Dutse.
According to the statement, Aliyu said the Foundation was impressed with the sense of order, hospitality, and leadership witnessed in Jigawa, noting that the state’s atmosphere of simplicity and discipline evokes the Sardauna’s ideals of service and integrity.
“I am happy to be here today and to see that we share many things in common—in work, in simplicity, and in approach to leadership,” he said.
“Some of my team members went into town to buy a few things, and they came back very happy, saying everyone they met had nothing but praise for you. Unlike in many states today, where governors are even afraid of their people, we saw genuine affection and respect here.”
He urged northern leaders to emulate Governor Namadi’s focus on community-centered governance and called for renewed collaboration among the 19 northern states.
“Most importantly, we must return our full attention to education. If we fail to do so, we will keep moving in circles. Education is the key at every level—from basic to tertiary. With proper education, even agriculture will transform. We talk about 70% of our people being farmers, yet productivity remains low. With education and technology, one farmer can cultivate 20,000 hectares instead of 12 people struggling over 2 hectares.”
The former governor also outlined the Foundation’s scholarship scheme and outreach programmes designed to promote education and leadership development across northern Nigeria. He said the 2026 lecture in Jigawa will include public lectures, outreach activities, awards, and a dinner event to celebrate the region’s shared vision for progress.
Responding, Governor Namadi thanked the Foundation for the honour done to Jigawa State and reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to uphold the legacy of the Sardauna through transparent governance, people-focused policies, and investment in education.
“On behalf of the government and people of Jigawa State, I sincerely thank the Sir Ahmadu Bello Memorial Foundation for this honour done to us by choosing Jigawa as the host of the 2026 Annual Lecture Series. This is a privilege we do not take for granted.”
Read also: Namadi hosts NG-CARES chief, reiterates commitment to grassroots empowerment
Governor Namadi described the Foundation’s work as a timely call for northern leaders to return to the values of unity, service, and discipline, adding that the region can only progress when it rediscovers its shared moral foundation.
“We must be honest with ourselves—that sense of collective purpose has weakened over the years. But with people like you, who serve with sincerity and commitment even after holding high offices, we can rebuild it. Your service is true statesmanship, and we thank you for your sacrifice.
“I want to assure you that the Jigawa State Government will do everything possible to ensure the success of the 2026 lecture series. Your presence here demonstrates your deep commitment to the progress of Northern Nigeria, and we are proud to partner with you in this noble cause,” he said.
