The Jigawa State Governor, Umar Namadi, has reiterated that human capital development remains a top priority of his administration.
He noted that meaningful and sustainable development can only be achieved through consistent investment in people, strong values, and institutional competence.
The Governor made this assertion at the closing ceremony of a five-day life skills development training organised by the Sir Ahmadu Bello Memorial Foundation in partnership with the Jigawa State Government, held in Dutse.
According to Governor Namadi, the training reflects his administration’s determination to build a disciplined, skilled, and values-oriented workforce capable of addressing emerging social and economic challenges. He stressed that empowering citizens with relevant skills is key to reducing poverty, expanding economic opportunities, and improving livelihoods.
“Our government has placed human capital development at the centre of its policies because a knowledgeable and skilled population is the foundation of sustainable growth
“By supporting initiatives such as this, we are unlocking the potential of our people and positioning them to contribute effectively to the progress of Jigawa State.” The Governor stated
Also Read: Deputy Speaker Calls For Investment in Human Capital Development
He explained that youth empowerment through skills acquisition and entrepreneurship has remained a major focus of his administration, with deliberate investments aimed at tackling unemployment and promoting self-reliance.
He cited the interventions of the Jigawa State Youth Empowerment and Employment Agency, which has implemented vocational and entrepreneurial training across key sectors including ICT, agriculture, livestock production, and micro, small, and medium-scale enterprises.
Governor Namadi emphasised that leadership and public service must be guided by integrity, accountability, and a strong sense of responsibility. He urged participants to regard the training as a platform for service and personal transformation rather than merely an academic exercise.
He encouraged beneficiaries to apply the life skills gained such as leadership, critical thinking, effective communication, and adaptability in their professional and community engagements, adding that real development begins when knowledge is put into practice.
The Governor further revealed that more than 400,000 youths and women across the state have benefited from various empowerment and skills development programmes initiated by his administration through strategic partnerships and targeted interventions. He added that capacity building, particularly within the civil service, remains a critical component of effective governance.
Governor Namadi commended the Sir Ahmadu Bello Memorial Foundation for its consistent efforts in promoting leadership development and human capital advancement across Northern Nigeria, describing the foundation as a dependable partner in fostering ethical leadership.
Also speaking, the Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the Foundation, Alhaji Babangida Aliyu (Talban Minna), said the training was inspired by the enduring leadership values of the late Sir Ahmadu Bello, whom he described as an icon of integrity and selfless service.
“The programme was designed to remind participants that leadership is a test of character and that accountability is a duty owed to both the people and God,” he added.
Details of the engagement are contained in a press statement by the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Hamisu Mohammed Gumel.