Cmtt returns N301m from Jigawa's N4.8bn ramadan feeding scheme | Newskeeper

Image: Jigawa state Commissioner of information, Sagir Musa

By Salisu K Ismail 

The Jigawa State Government committee saddled with the responsibility for this year's Ramadan iftar feeding scheme says it has saved and refunded N301 million from the N4.8 billion released for the program.

It could be recalled that the Jigawa State Government had budgeted N4.8 billion for the 2025 Ramadan Iftar Feeding Programme, with the aim of providing nutritious meals to vulnerable individuals across the state during the holy month of Ramadan. 

The program was designed to promote food security, economic empowerment, and community unity, while also supporting local businesses and farmers through procurement of food items.

This was disclosed by the Commissioner of Information, Youths, Sports, and Culture, Sagir Musa, while briefing journalists on the outcomes and resolutions of the State Executive Council Meeting held on Wednesday at Press Gallery, Government House, Dutse, the Jigawa state capital.

According to Musa, the 2025 Ramadan Iftar Feeding Programme operated 634 feeding centers, serving an estimated 5.7 million meals during Ramadan. 

"The program fed 300 individuals per center daily and incurred a total expenditure of N4.8 billion," he said.

The State Commissioner of information explained that "the program had a significant impact on the state's economy and citizens as over 190,000 individuals accessed quality, nutritious meals daily, while local procurement of N3.5 billion boosted businesses of farmers, vendors, and traders within the period."

Additionally, the commissioner stated that "3,804 cooks earned N87,000 each, surpassing Grade Level 07 salaries."

He however noted that "the State Executive Council commended the Iftar Committee, chaired by Hon. Dr. Lawan Danzomo, for its excellent work. The Council also endorsed the committee as the standing committee for the 2026 program."

Musa also expressed further that the Ministry for Special Duties, under Auwal Sankara, was also commended for its role in the program's success, adding that "the Council's decision to retain the committee is to ensures continuity and builds on the progress made in the 2025 program."

In other news, the Council according to the Commissioner has reviewed the transition report following Jigawa State's acquisition of Khadijah University Majia. "The committee, chaired by Dr. Lawan Danzomo, was directed to collaborate with MDAs to begin the procurement process outlined in the 2025 Budget."