Governor Umar Namadi of Jigawa State has said that rising insecurity and widespread poverty are still major problems preventing many people from getting decent and stable jobs.
He made this known on Friday during the 2026 Workers’ Day event held at the Muhammadu Sunusi Bello Durbar Ground. The theme of this year’s celebration focused on how insecurity and poverty continue to affect workers and limit access to good employment.
According to the governor, these two issues are closely linked to the everyday struggles of workers and are reducing productivity as well as overall wellbeing. He explained that solving them will require clear government policies and cooperation from all stakeholders.
“These problems affect people’s daily lives, and everyone must play a role in finding lasting solutions,” Namadi stated.
He further explained that his government’s 12-point development plan is designed to address these challenges. The plan focuses on key sectors such as farming, infrastructure, healthcare, education, and social support programmes.
Speaking on agriculture, the governor said his administration is working to improve food production, create more job opportunities, and help citizens earn a steady income.
Namadi also assured workers that his government will continue to maintain a good relationship with labour unions. He said the administration remains open to discussions aimed at improving workers’ welfare and addressing their concerns.
“We appreciate our partnership with labour groups and will keep working together to promote fairness, openness, and progress for all workers,” he added.
He called on everyone to work together consistently to tackle the issues affecting workers across the state.
In his remarks, the chairman of the Nigeria Labour Congress in Jigawa, Sunusi Alhassan, praised the state government for steps taken to improve workers’ welfare. However, he stressed that more effort is needed to reduce poverty and insecurity, as both remain key obstacles to achieving decent work and stable livelihoods.
He also commended the governor for paying attention to the needs of civil servants in the state.