Written By: Ahmed Rufa’i in Dutse
The Jigawa State Executive Council (SEC) has approved over N11.3 billion for the construction of a Cryogenic Oxygen Plant, solar mini-grid projects and other healthcare delivery initiatives across the state.
This was disclosed by the Jigawa state commissioner for Information, Youth, Sports and Culture, Mr Sagir Musa Ahmed while briefing news men after the state executive council meeting presided over by Gov. Malam Umar Namadi, said the decisions underscore government’s commitment to improving citizens’ welfare and strengthening critical sectors of the economy.
Ahmed disclosed that the Council also approved the participation of the State Ministry of Environment and Climate Change in the Green Nigeria Challenge Jigawa State Edition, aimed at addressing environmental concerns.
He explained that the initiative would promote afforestation, combat desertification, enhance biodiversity and encourage community participation in environmental conservation.
According to him, the programme will further provide a platform for the state to strengthen climate action, restore degraded lands and contribute to national and global sustainability goals.
The commissioner added that the ministry would collaborate with local communities, development partners and civil society organisations to ensure effective implementation.
On healthcare, Ahmed said the Council approved additional works for the ongoing Cryogenic Oxygen Plant project in Dutse to boost medical oxygen supply.
He said the additional works include the supply of digital oxygen and nitrogen cylinders, as well as electric vehicles to improve distribution and operational efficiency.
Ahmed disclosed that the Council approved ₦1,222,945,203.58 for the additional components, bringing the total project cost from ₦2,202,161,079.93 to ₦3,425,160,283.51.
He noted that the move reflects government’s resolve to strengthen healthcare infrastructure, improve emergency response capacity and ensure sustainable oxygen supply to health facilities.
The Council also approved the disbursement of ₦362.8 million as Direct Facility Financing (DFF) for 281 accredited Primary Health Care centres across the 27 local government areas.
He said the funds, covering July to December 2025, were released under the Basic Health Care Provision Fund (BHCPF) to enhance service delivery at the grassroots.
In a related development, Ahmed said the Council approved ₦56.67 million for the payment of allowances to frontline health workers.
The beneficiaries include 75 midwives, 650 Community Health Influencers, Promoters and Services (CHIPS) agents, and 130 Community Engagement Focal Persons.
He added that the allowances, covering six months, are aimed at boosting community health mobilisation, maternal and child healthcare, and public health awareness.
The Council further approved ₦57,444,558.62 for the operational management of the BHCPF at the state level in line with the approved work plan.
On power, the commissioner said the Council approved a review of cost and scope for solar mini-grid projects at key government facilities, including the State Secretariat Complex, the State Judiciary Building and the State House of Assembly Complex.
Ahmed said the project cost was revised from ₦6,084,775,433.75 to ₦7,461,246,577.13 to accommodate expanded scope and improved infrastructure.
He explained that the upgraded projects would deliver 3MWp capacity with 4.5MWh battery storage, ensuring reliable and sustainable power supply to critical government institutions.
According to him, the initiative will enhance productivity, improve operational efficiency, reduce reliance on conventional power sources and promote environmentally sustainable energy solutions within public facilities.
