By Lurwanu Idris Malikawa
The Gumel Emirate Foundation has called on the Jigawa State Government to expand and upgrade the Maigatari–Gumel road into a Trunk A dual carriageway to cope with rising commercial traffic around the Export Processing Zone, EPZ, Market corridor.
Chairman of the Foundation’s Board of Trustees, Alhaji Mohammed Sani Ahmed, Dan-Amar of Gumel, made the appeal in a press release on Friday while commending Governor Umar Namadi for reviving the Maigatari EPZ project after over two decades of dormancy.
Ahmed described the EPZ as a landmark achievement that signals a new era of industrial growth, investment and shared prosperity for Jigawa.
“The Foundation applauds Governor Namadi’s visionary leadership and commitment to economic transformation. Through the revitalisation of the EPZ and provision of critical infrastructure, Maigatari and its environs are being positioned as hubs for trade, commerce and industry,” he said.
He also welcomed the involvement of foreign investors, including a consortium of Chinese-backed firms, noting that their participation would attract investment, boost production, expand exports and create thousands of direct and indirect jobs.
The Dan-Amar pledged the Emirate’s full support to the government, investors and stakeholders to ensure security and sustainability of the project. “We remain committed to fostering a peaceful and conducive environment for businesses to thrive,” he added.
Ahmed further expressed appreciation to Governor Namadi for what he called “bold and transformative interventions” that will bring lasting prosperity to Gumel Emirate, Jigawa and beyond.
*Foundation commends free dialysis centre*
In a related development, the Foundation lauded the state government for establishing a free dialysis centre at Gumel General Hospital.
Ahmed said the initiative demonstrates the governor’s people-oriented approach and commitment to making quality healthcare accessible, especially for the vulnerable.
“Kidney disease is costly to manage and dialysis is often beyond the reach of many. By offering it free, the government has eased financial burden and restored hope to patients,” he stated.
He noted that since services began in January 2026, 53 patients have benefited from 383 dialysis sessions.
Ahmed urged government to install a solar power system at the centre to guarantee uninterrupted service and reduce operational costs.
