Gov. Namadi Launches 200-Hectare Date Palm Project to Boost Jobs, Economy

By: Aremu Toyeebaht

The Jigawa State Government has launched a large-scale date palm cultivation scheme, training 400 young people to become farmers in a move aimed at boosting food security, tackling desertification, and creating sustainable jobs.

Governor Umar Namadi, speaking at the graduation ceremony held Monday at the Yakubu Gowon NYSC Orientation Camp, Dutse, described the initiative as a “strategic investment in the future of Jigawa’s youth and environment.”

Each graduate will be allocated half a hectare of land with 200 date palm trees, translating to 200 hectares of plantation across the state. The governor added that participants will also receive a monthly stipend for two years, along with boreholes and other farming inputs to help stabilize their new ventures.

“The monthly allowance for two years is designed to support the youths while they develop their farms into profitable ventures,” Namadi explained.

He emphasized that date palm cultivation has long been part of Jigawa’s tradition, providing both economic and ecological benefits. The crop, he noted, not only generates rural income but also serves as a natural defense against desert encroachment in the state.

According to him, the 400 beneficiaries were drawn equally from Birniwa, Yankwashi, Babura, and Sule Tankarkar Local Government Areas.

“We want to empower our youths to be self-reliant and contribute positively to the state’s economy. This government will not relent in creating jobs and expanding agriculture as a viable source of income,” Namadi said.

The governor further urged young people across Jigawa to embrace agriculture and skill acquisition, stressing that his administration’s vision is to make the state a hub for sustainable farming and environmental conservation.