By Ahmed Rufa’i, Dutse
More than 40 Community-Based Organisations (CBOs) from across the Jigawa Northeast Senatorial District have unveiled a coordinated 2026 development blueprint, pressing their representative at the National Assembly to prioritise critical infrastructure, agriculture and empowerment initiatives.
The coalition, drawn from eight local government areas of Jigawa State, formally presented its demands during a stakeholders’ engagement session, describing the move as part of an annual effort to align federal interventions with grassroots realities.
Chairman of the coalition, Comrade Ahmed Illah, said the document reflects months of consultations, including town hall meetings, memoranda and structured community dialogues.
“Our goal is to ensure that the real needs of our people are captured in national budgeting and policy execution, especially projects that fall within the mandate of the Federal Government,” he said.
Roads, Farms and Livelihoods Top the List
At the heart of the demands is urgent intervention in agriculture, youth and women empowerment, and social infrastructure.
The coalition called for:
Expanded farm input support and mechanisation programmes
Targeted empowerment schemes for youths, women and persons with disabilities
Rehabilitation of schools and primary healthcare centres
Immediate reconstruction of critical road networks
Particularly highlighted was the Gamayin–Hadejia road, described as a vital economic artery linking communities within the district to neighbouring Bauchi State. The road, which serves about 70 communities, has reportedly remained in poor condition since the 2020 floods.
The coalition also urged the completion of the Kwanar Zaki–Kafin-Hausa–Jahun road project, initially awarded for reconstruction in 2018 under the administration of former President Muhammadu Buhari.
Call for Deeper Collaboration
Stakeholders at the meeting reviewed ongoing constituency projects and emphasised the need for sustained synergy between elected representatives and civil society actors to ensure inclusive development.
Representing the Senator, Hon. Engr. Sabo Muhammad Yankoli, Special Adviser to the Governor of Jigawa State, outlined the lawmaker’s achievements over the past two and a half years, including bills sponsored in the areas of security, education and healthcare, alongside ongoing constituency projects.
Also speaking, Hon. Habibu Khamisu, Special Assistant to the Governor on Stakeholders Engagement, described the coalition’s initiative as a healthy democratic exercise that strengthens participatory governance.
Responding, the Senator acknowledged receipt of the document, commended the coalition for its structured advocacy and assured constituents of his commitment to pursuing legislative and administrative measures to address the outlined priorities.