Dutse, Nov. 7, 2025
The Sir Ahmadu Bello Memorial Foundation (ABMF) has commended Governor Malam Umar Namadi of Jigawa state, for humility, simplicity, and commitment to the development of Jigawa State.
Chairman of the Foundation’s Board of Trustees and former Governor of Niger State, Dr. Mu’azu Babangida Aliyu, made the commendation when he led the Board members on a courtesy visit to Gov. Namadi at Government House, Dutse on Friday.
The board Chair described Namadi’s leadership as a reflection of the values and legacy of the late Sir Ahmadu Bello, the Sardauna of Sokoto.
The Talban Minna, said the Foundation was impressed with the sense of order, hospitality, and leadership witnessed in Jigawa, noting that the state’s atmosphere of 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 terms of work, simplicity, and 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.
“Our purpose here today is to express our gratitude. Since our arrival, we have been received with remarkable warmth and generosity. We have been treated with humility and sincerity. We thank you sincerely for the hospitality, the kindness,” he said.
Dr. Aliyu urged all northern leaders, to emulate Governor Namadi’s focus on community-centered governance and called for renewed collaboration among the 19 northern states.
Expressing his admiration for the state, he noted that its atmosphere and symbolism evoked memories of the North’s rich legacy of discipline, vision, and commitment to purpose, which defined its early leaders.
He thus emphasized the need to prioritize education as the foundation for lasting development.
“Most importantly, we must turn our full attention to education. If we fail to do so, we will keep moving in circles as 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.” Talba said.
The former governor however, outlined the Foundation’s scholarship scheme and outreach programmes designed to promote education and leadership development across northern Nigeria.
He said the 2026 lecture to be held in Jigawa, will include public lectures, outreach activities, awards and a dinner event, to celebrate the region’s shared vision for progress.
Responding, Governor Umar Namadi commended the Foundation for the honor given to Jigawa and reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to uphold the legacy of the Sardauna,8 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 honor done to us by choosing Jigawa to host the 2026 Annual Lecture Series. This is a privilege we do not take for granted.” Namadi said.
He described the Foundation’s work as a timely, calling on 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 our 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.”
The governor pledged full support for the 2026 lecture series and assured that his government would work closely with the Foundation’s technical committee, to ensure a successful event in Jigawa.
Aisha Ahmed ✍ from Dutse
