Governor Umar Namadi’s administration in Jigawa State appears to be healing decades-old rivalries between the Dutse and Hadejia emirates, which were rooted in the 1991 decision to designate Dutse as the state capital.
Historically, the people of Dutse viewed leaders from Hadejia with suspicion, fearing marginalisation in appointments and projects.
That sentiment intensified during the 2023 elections when the APC nominated Namadi, a Hadejia native, while the PDP fielded Mustapha Lamido from Dutse.
However, Governor Namadi quickly addressed the tension by appointing key officials, including his Chief of Staff and SSG from the Dutse Emirate, during his first week in office.
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In March, the Emir of Dutse, Hamim Nuhu-Sanusi, led a delegation to thank the governor for significant infrastructure and development projects in the emirate.
“This is not just road construction; it is a foundation for opportunity, mobility, and prosperity for generations to come,” said youth leader Abdulhamid Sani.
A ₦59.4 billion water project, stalled for 24 years, has resumed under Namadi’s tenure, alongside mass housing, health reforms, and erosion control efforts.
“One problem is that Jigawa people do not trust leaders who are not from their community,” noted Ahmed Ilallah, adding that Namadi has “dispelled the suspicion.”
Former Governor Muhammad Badaru praised Namadi, saying, “God has vindicated me with all the developments that have been taking place in the state; I am sure he will do better than I have done.”
