Kafin Hausa – Jigawa, April 11, 2026
Governor Malam Umar Namadi of Jigawa State has reaffirmed education, as a cornerstone of his administration’s development strategy, declaring it the most dependable investment for securing the state’s future.
The governor made this known on Saturday at the 2nd Combined Convocation Ceremony of Sule Lamido University, where thousands of graduates were celebrated alongside distinguished recipients of honorary doctorate degrees.
Addressing the gathering at the university’s Convocation Arena, Namadi underscored the centrality of human capital development, stressing that no asset surpasses the value of a well-educated populace.
“Education remains our most sustainable investment, and for any entity, there is no greater asset than its human resources,” he declared.
The ceremony marked a significant academic milestone, bringing together graduates from six sessions spanning 2018/2019 to 2024/2025, in what the governor described as a historic moment in the university’s relatively young but impactful journey.
He noted that the event symbolised not just academic achievement, but the steady institutional growth of the university since its establishment over a decade ago.
Namadi also paid tribute to the founding figures and successive administrators whose efforts laid the groundwork for the institution’s progress.
Reinforcing his administration’s policy direction, the governor disclosed that between 26 and 30 percent of the state’s annual budget has consistently been allocated to education.
According to him, this has led to tangible improvements in infrastructure, teaching standards, and student enrolment, alongside a notable decline in the number of out-of-school children.
In a strategic push to strengthen technical and vocational education, he revealed that eight senior secondary schools have been upgraded into centres of excellence, fully equipped to deliver industry-relevant skills.
Complementing this effort, the state is revamping its College of Remedial and Advanced Studies in Babura to align with the National TVET Curriculum and accommodate graduates from these centres.
The governor also announced a major expansion in higher education access, confirming the state’s takeover of a private university in Majia, Taura Local Government Area.
He explained that plans are underway to transform the institution into a specialised university for medical and allied health sciences through a public-private partnership framework, pending legislative approval.
At Sule Lamido University, Namadi highlighted ongoing and completed projects, including the establishment of a Faculty of Medicine, construction of student hostels and staff residences, a sabbatical lodge, a Wetland Research Centre, and a new convocation arena.
He said these initiatives are part of a broader vision to elevate the university to global standards.
“Staying true to our commitment, we aspire to elevate SLUK to the status of a world-class institution, highly ranked both within Nigeria and internationally,” he said.
Beyond infrastructure, the administration is also investing in staff development, institutional reforms, and improved utilities to create a more conducive academic environment.
On environmental sustainability, the governor spotlighted the Wetland Research Centre as a critical intervention to address ecological challenges.
The centre, he explained, will drive research, inform policy, and promote strategies for wetland restoration and climate change mitigation.
Speaking directly to the graduating students, Namadi urged them to uphold values of integrity, hard work, and service, reminding them that their education carries both privilege and responsibility.
A total of 4,109 students were awarded Bachelor’s degrees at the ceremony, which also featured the installation of the new Chancellor of the university, Emir of Katagum.
Three distinguished personalities were honoured with doctorate degrees, including the Emir, alongside senior officials from international humanitarian and youth development organisations.
The governor concluded by congratulating the graduates, honourees, and the entire university community, reaffirming his administration’s commitment to leveraging education as a catalyst for sustainable development in Jigawa State.
Aisha Ahmed ✍ from Dutse.
