Stronger Ties With Customs to Spur Maigatari Free Trade-Zone Gov. Namadi
The Executive Governor of Jigawa State, Malam Umar Namadi, has reiterated his administration’s commitment to revitalizing the Maigatari Free Trade Zone, describing it as a strategic gateway for economic growth, trade facilitation, and industrial development.
He announced this during a meeting with the Area Controller of the Nigerian Customs Service, Kano/Jigawa Area Command, Controller Dalhat Abubakar, who led his team on a courtesy visit to the Government House in Dutse.
Hamisu Mohammed Gumel, Government House Chief Press Secretary disclosed this in a statement issued to newsmen.
Hamisu revealed, Governor Namadi congratulated Controller Abubakar on his assumption of office in February 2025 and commended the Nigerian Customs Service for its renewed commitment to supporting Jigawa’s economic aspirations.
“I want to use this opportunity to thank you for this courtesy call, because that demonstrates the need to have a very good working relationship between the Nigerian Customs Service and Jigawa State,” he said.
He specifically acknowledged the Controller’s technical engagement and interest in the state’s flagship project, saying that, “I am really impressed—not just because of what you have said here—but from the reports I have been receiving from my team regarding your interest in our efforts to revive the Maigatari Free Trade Zone.”
Governor Namadi highlighted the history and untapped potential of the Maigatari Free Trade Zone project, which he said started over twenty-five years ago, and emphasized that the government had taken critical steps to revive the zone.
“I am sure you are aware of the history behind Maigatari. It has existed for the past 25 years but remained dormant. However, by Allah’s will and with support from good Samaritans like you, we are reviving it.”
I want to assure you that this government is fully committed to bringing Maigatari to full operation. We have paid our statutory licenses, carried out a lot of rural resettlement around the area, and are currently engaging with potential investors.”
He therefore called for continued synergy with federal institutions like the Nigerian Customs Service for the actualization of the free zone project.
“I want to assure you that the Jigawa State Government is ready to work closely with you to ensure the success of Maigatari. We see it as our responsibility to revive the zone—and we are happy that you are willing to help us achieve this.”
“It is our responsibility to bring Maigatari into operation, and you have decided to assist us to achieve that. Whatever advice you give us for the benefit of bringing Maigatari into full operation, I want to assure you that we are ready to implement it.”
Earlier in his remarks, the controller reaffirmed the Customs Service’s readiness to activate operations at the Maigatari Free Trade Zone.
“Sir, if you want operations today, we can start operations today. We are willing to start, but there are concerns—some operational, some administrative, and some technical. They are achievable, they are surmountable, and they are doable,” he assured.
He noted that the Command had engaged key stakeholders, including the board and management of Maigatari EPZ and officials of the Maigatari Local Government Area. He praised the commitment of the state’s appointees, saying, “Their team—they are excellent. They have demonstrated commitment, capacity, and willingness to drive your agenda.”
Controller Abubakar highlighted Maigatari’s comparative advantage, adding that, “It will be an understatement for any state in the North to say it can compete with Kano. But sir, with Megatari, you can compete. Maigatari Free Trade Zone has an advantage—it borders a country, unlike Kano.”
“We have a lot in common that we can share and brainstorm to meet the objectives you have set for them,” he said.
