By Ali Rabiu Ali, Dutse
Over 5,000 workers have been recruited into theJigawa state civil service on a permanent basis in the last three years, while more than 6,000 others were engaged through various employment programmes such as J-TEACH, J-HEALTH, and J-AGROW.
The state governor Malam Umar Namadi stated this during his worker’s day celebration on Friday, 1st May, 2026 held at Durber ground, Dutse.
Namadi added that nearly 3,600 workers have been promoted after years of stagnation, while about 3,000 health workers were integrated into the state payroll system.
On workers’ welfare, the governor said his administration had stabilised the contributory pension scheme, which was previously facing collapse, ensuring timely payment of retirees’ benefits.
He disclosed that over N5 billion had been disbursed as agricultural loans to more than 17,700 civil servants, while N4.2 billion was provided to about 13,000 workers as vehicle and motorcycle loans to improve mobility and living standards.
Namadi further cited the implementation of the N70,000 minimum wage, regular payment of salaries and pensions, and the construction of nearly 1,000 housing units for workers as key achievements of his administration.
The governor also acknowledged the contributions of organised labour, pledging continued collaboration with the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and the Trade Union Congress (TUC) to address workers’ concerns.
He assured that issues such as salary increments, pension reforms, and broader inclusion of workers in economic initiatives would receive due attention.
Namadi disclosed that a committee is currently reviewing the minimum pension in the state, expressing optimism that it would soon be increased without jeopardising the sustainability of the pension scheme.
He called on workers to remain dedicated, patient, and committed to service, assuring them that their contributions remain vital to the state’s progress.
“As we celebrate Workers’ Day, let us reaffirm our commitment to diligence, integrity, and unity in building a prosperous Jigawa State,” he said.
The governor said his government would continue to prioritise policies that enhance the well-being of workers while driving sustainable development across the state.
He noted that this year’s theme, “Insecurity and Poverty as the Bane of Decent Work,” reflects the pressing challenges facing Nigerians, stressing that addressing both issues remains central to his administration’s agenda.
Namadi said since assuming office, his government has pursued a 12-point development plan aimed at achieving food security, economic diversification, and improved livelihoods for citizens.
According to him, agriculture remains a key pillar of the administration’s strategy, with a strong focus on reducing poverty and creating employment opportunities.
“We have placed agricultural transformation at the heart of our development agenda as a practical pathway to fighting poverty and insecurity,” he said.
The governor highlighted investments in infrastructure, youth empowerment, education, healthcare, and social protection as part of broader efforts to improve living standards in the state.
He also underscored reforms in the civil service, including capacity building, digital innovation, and institutional strengthening to enhance efficiency and service delivery.
The governor congratulated workers on the occasion and expressed hope for greater achievements in the coming year.
He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to improving workers’ welfare, tackling poverty and insecurity, and strengthening the civil service, as the state joined the rest of the world to mark the 2026 Workers’ Day.
