By Ibrahim Ibrahim
The newly appointed Director-General of the Jigawa Agricultural Transformation Agency (JATA), Dr. Saifullah Umar, has pledged to drive a comprehensive transformation of the agricultural sector in Jigawa State under the leadership of Governor Malam Umar A. Namadi, FCA.
Dr. Umar, who expressed gratitude to Governor Namadi for entrusting him with the responsibility, said his appointment was a call to service and an opportunity to contribute to the governor’s vision of modernizing agriculture and improving food security in the state.
He assured that JATA would prioritize innovation, increased productivity, and farmers’ empowerment, with a focus on creating opportunities that would make agriculture a driver of economic growth in Jigawa.
“I remain fully committed to serving the good people of Jigawa State and will work tirelessly to bring positive change to the agricultural sector under the visionary leadership of His Excellency, Malam Umar A. Namadi, FCA. I kindly seek the continued support and prayers of stakeholders as we embark on this journey together,” Dr. Umar stated.
The JATA boss also appreciated the goodwill, prayers, and encouragement from his family, colleagues, and well-wishers, describing their support as a source of strength that will inspire him to deliver on the mandate of the agency.
The Jigawa Agricultural Transformation Agency was established to coordinate policies, programs, and projects that would reposition agriculture as the backbone of the state’s economy.
Its mandate includes strengthening value chains for crops and livestock, promoting mechanized farming, supporting irrigation systems, expanding access to credit and markets, and encouraging youth and women’s participation in agribusiness.
The agency also serves as a bridge between government, development partners, and local farmers to ensure agricultural policies translate into measurable results for communities.
Under Governor Namadi’s administration, Jigawa State has rolled out several initiatives aimed at boosting food production and farmer resilience. These include the expansion of irrigation schemes in key rice-producing areas, the establishment of farm clusters and climate-smart agriculture projects in partnership with international development organizations.
Dr. Umar’s appointment comes at a critical time when Jigawa is consolidating gains from these programs and seeking to position agriculture as a sustainable driver of job creation, food security, and rural development.
