From Abdullahi Idris,Dutse
Jigawa State governor, Umar Namadi has launched N392.3 million empowerment scheme for members of the National Union of Road Transport Workers, NURTW, and Butchers Association.
The initiative is part of the governor’s drive to support grassroots economic actors who play critical roles in the lives of citizens.
Speaking during the flag-off ceremony at Dutse Sports Complex, Governor Namadi stressed that the empowerment is deliberate and people-centered.
The first phase of the initiative saw the handover of 36 commercial vehicles worth N279.3 million, including insurance to NURTW members under a revolving loan scheme facilitated by Jigawa State Youth Economic Empowerment and Employment Agency.
Commending the union for serving the interest of its members through these collaborative efforts, the governor urged those benefiting from the initiative to ensure proper handling of the vehicles.
Governor Namadi also acknowledged the significant contributions of NURTW to the state’s economy, describing the union as a vital player.
“For any supply chain to work effectively and efficiently — whether in agriculture, commerce and industry, or trading and manufacturing—the services of NURTW will be a critical element or component of that value chain,” the governor said.
He linked this support to broader investments that his administration is making in transport infrastructure across the state.
The governor disclosed that government is embracing clean energy solutions by setting up CNG conversion points across the state.
In the second phase of the empowerment programme, Governor Namadi unveiled a N113 million revolving loan scheme for members of Jigawa Butchers Association.
Designed to support the meat production value chain, the scheme targets 53 beneficiaries, with 15 major livestock dealers receiving N5 million each and 38 others receiving N1 million each.
To institutionalise support for the sector, the governor revealed a significant policy plan in the works.
