Jigawa State is set to become a major player in livestock production and processing, following plans by a Chinese firm and the Border Communities Development Agency to establish a livestock processing plant in Maigatari town, a border community in the state.
This was made public when Governor Umar Namadi received the Executive Secretary of BCDA, Dr. George Kelly, alongside representatives of the Yangpu Global Corporation Forum of China, during their courtesy visits on Wednesday to the Government House, Dutse, Jigawa State capital.
Arewa PUNCH learnt that the project aims to position Maigatari as a livestock production and processing hub, expected to create employment, boost cross-border trade, and drive inclusive economic growth across the state.
In his address, Governor Namadi described the move as a crucial boost to the livelihoods of border communities and the broader Jigawa economy.
While expressing gratitude gratitude to the BCDA and the Chinese investors for their choice of Jigawa, Namadi assured them of his administration’s full support.
“I want to assure you that the Jigawa State Government is ready to work with you, as we have found real partners in this venture,” he stated.
The governor also highlighted Jigawa’s prominence as a top investment destination in Nigeria, ranking second nationwide in the ease of doing business.
He also underscored the state’s vast agricultural and livestock potential, noting, “We have one of the largest livestock markets in Africa.
“To make investing smoother, Jigawa offers a one-stop-shop investment promotion agency to handle all necessary processes for investors,” he revealed.
The governor equally spoke about establishing a new Ministry of Livestock Development to reflect his administration’s commitment to transforming the sector and tapping its economic potential.
“Whatever you will do that will improve the economic activities and the livelihoods of our people. We are ready to support you, and you will not regret working with us,” he noted.
Earlier, while briefing the governor during the visit, Dr. Kelly explained the rationale behind the choice of Maigatari as the pilot location.
“We have chosen Jigawa’s Maigatari area for this project because of its strategic location and strong economic potential,” he said.
He revealed that the Chinese investors, through the Yangpu Global Corporation Forum, are committed to investing not only in cattle production but also in processing activities.
Dr. Kelly praised Jigawa’s investment-friendly policies and infrastructure projects like the upcoming cargo airport in Dutse and ongoing rail lines, which will connect the state and improve logistics.
He confirmed that the investors have secured funding from several Chinese banks and are eager to proceed with the project.
“These developments show that Jigawa has a visionary governor who understands what his people need,” Kelly concluded.
