By Abbas Nazil
The Jigawa State Government has entered into a partnership with the Border Communities Development Agency (BCDA) and Chinese investors to establish a livestock processing hub in Maigatari, a strategic border town in the state.
The project, announced during a courtesy visit to Governor Malam Umar Namadi at the Government House in Dutse, is expected to create employment, boost cross-border trade, and stimulate inclusive economic growth in Jigawa.
Speaking during the meeting, the Executive Secretary of BCDA, Dr. George D.A. Kelly, revealed that Maigatari was carefully chosen as the pilot location for the livestock hub due to its economic potential and strategic geographical position as a border community.
He explained that the Yangpu Global Corporation Forum of China has expressed keen interest in investing not only in cattle production but also in value-added cattle processing.
According to him, the investors have already secured financing from banks in China and are ready to commence the project.
Dr. Kelly praised Jigawa’s growing infrastructure network, highlighting the upcoming Dutse cargo airport and the ongoing rail project expected to connect the state, which he said will strengthen the viability of the planned livestock hub.
He described the initiative as a forward-looking move, attributing it to the visionary leadership of Governor Namadi, who, he said, is committed to improving the lives of his people through investment-driven development.
In his response, Governor Namadi expressed gratitude to the BCDA and the Chinese investors for choosing Jigawa as the pilot location for the project.
He assured the partners of his administration’s full support and commitment to ensuring a smooth process.
The governor emphasized that Jigawa remains a prime investment destination in Nigeria, ranking second nationwide in ease of doing business.
He also highlighted that the state hosts one of the largest livestock markets in Africa, making it a natural choice for livestock processing ventures.
Governor Namadi pointed out that the newly created Ministry of Livestock Development demonstrates his administration’s resolve to transform the livestock sector into a major contributor to the state’s economy.
He pledged that the government would provide a one-stop-shop investment promotion agency to streamline procedures for investors and ensure that their engagement with the state remains seamless and rewarding.
The governor stressed that the initiative would not only stimulate business opportunities but also directly improve the livelihoods of residents in Maigatari and across Jigawa.
He reaffirmed his administration’s readiness to collaborate fully with investors and assured them of long-term support.
He concluded by noting that the partnership would leave a lasting impact on Jigawa’s economic development and strengthen its role as a regional hub for livestock trade and processing.
