Governor Namadi Urges Shift in Northwest’s Poverty Narrative, Pledges Support for Regional Development Commission

Governor Malam Umar Namadi of Jigawa State has called for a transformative shift in the narrative surrounding poverty in the Northwest region, emphasizing that the area is richly endowed with both human capital and natural resources needed to drive economic prosperity.

Governor Namadi made this call on Friday while receiving the Board and Management of the newly established Northwest Development Commission, who paid him a courtesy visit at the Government House in Dutse.

This is contained in statement by Hamisu Mohammed Gumel,Chief Press Secretary to the Governor of Jigawa State on Friday.

During the meeting, the governor praised the leadership of the commission and pledged the full support of Jigawa State, as well as the backing of the Northwest Governors’ Forum, to ensure the commission’s success. He stressed the need for close collaboration between the commission and state governments to achieve meaningful development across the region.

“The Northwest region currently has the highest poverty rate in Nigeria, but this should not define us,” Governor Namadi said. “We have the resources—both human and material—to change this reality. With clear vision, dedication, and strategic priorities, we can transform the Northwest into an economic hub.”

He advised the commission to adopt a long-term approach by identifying the unique advantages of each state and aligning them with regional development plans. According to the governor, key focus areas should include infrastructure development, education, security, and economic diversification, rather than short-term relief initiatives.

Governor Namadi further stressed the importance of transparency, accountability, and integrity in the commission’s operations, assuring the delegation of his administration’s unwavering support.

“The people must see and believe in your commitment to genuine development. Once trust is built, public support will follow. The Northwest must not be left behind—we need bold steps to secure a prosperous future for our people,” he added.

In his remarks, Chairman of the Northwest Development Commission, Lawal Sama’ila Abdullahi, acknowledged the vital role played by Northwest governors in the creation of the commission. He assured Governor Namadi that the commission would work hand-in-hand with state governments to address key regional challenges, including insecurity, out-of-school children, drug abuse, and economic empowerment.

Abdullahi also highlighted Jigawa State’s strong agricultural potential, describing it as a critical partner in efforts to develop agro-allied industries and infrastructure in the region.

He further called on Governor Namadi to provide leadership in mobilizing support from his fellow governors to ensure the commission fulfills its mandate of accelerating development and improving the quality of life for the people of the Northwest.