CSOs Group Backs Jigawa Govt On 1,000 Commercial Shops Construction in Kano
Civil Society Coalition Urges Support, Transparency on Landmark N3.5bn Investment
By Abdulhamid Sani Dutse
Public Eye News | Dutse, Jigawa State
Friday, July 25, 2025 | Press Centre, NUJ Secretariat Dutse
In a bold move that signals a fresh drive towards economic self-reliance, the Jigawa State Government has approved the construction of 1,000 commercial shops at the bustling Farm Centre Phone Market in Kano State, with a total contract sum of ₦3.54 billion. The project, expected to significantly boost Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) for the state, was publicly endorsed today at a press conference organized by the Civil Society Coalition on Security, Peace, and Conflict Resolution, held at the NUJ Secretariat in Dutse.
Addressing the media, the President of the Coalition, Muhammad Musbahu Basirka, described the initiative as a “well-thought-out economic strategy” rooted in both historical ownership rights and fiscal responsibility.
“This land, strategically situated in the heart of Kano’s Phone Market, was inherited by Jigawa State following the 1991 creation of the state from the former Kano State. It was later recovered and officially handed over by the EFCC after due legal processes. This is not just land; it is a legacy asset now being put to meaningful use,” Basirka explained.
Project Justification and Economic Impact
According to Basirka, robust consultations were held with economists, urban developers, and community leaders before the state’s decision to invest in the high-demand commercial hub. Independent financial analysts reportedly validated the project’s viability, forecasting it will generate sustainable non-oil revenue for Jigawa a state that, like many others, continues to rely heavily on federal allocations.
“We must evolve beyond dependence,” he stated. “This project offers a rare opportunity to secure recurring income for Jigawa from a location that thrives commercially every day. The return on investment is long-term and real.”
Civil Society’s Watchdog Role
The Coalition further assured citizens that civil society groups in the state will play an active role in ensuring the project is executed transparently and to high-quality standards. Basirka promised consistent monitoring, independent tracking, and public reporting on the progress of the investment.
“We won’t fold our arms. We’ll track every phase from procurement to delivery. Our goal is simple: value for money, transparency, and impact.”
Call for Unity and Constructive Engagement
Reacting to recent mixed reactions from sections of the public, Basirka made a heartfelt appeal:
“Let’s not politicize a project that is meant to uplift our state. We call on all stakeholders traditional institutions, business communities, youth, women, and political leaders to unite and support this initiative. Let’s work together to shape its success.”
He added that suggestions from the public on optimizing the benefits of the project are welcome and will be incorporated where possible.
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