Jigawa State
“The New World”
Key Information
Capital City
Dutse
Governor
Malam Umar Namadi
Deputy Governor
Engr. Aminu Usman
Date Created
August 27, 1991
Geopolitical Zone
North-West
Area
23,154 km²
Estimated Population
5,884,222 (2016 estimate)
Senatorial Districts
3
About Jigawa State
Jigawa State is located in North-Western Nigeria, sharing an international border with the Republic of Niger. Created from the old Kano State in 1991, it is a largely agrarian region known for its distinct Sudan Savannah landscape and significant traditional emirates. The state is popularly referred to as 'The New World' reflecting its focus on modern developmental initiatives.
Historical Evolution and Creation
Jigawa State was officially created on August 27, 1991, during the military administration of General Ibrahim Babangida. It was carved out of the north-eastern part of the old Kano State following decades of advocacy for a separate administrative entity by local stakeholders. Historically, the area is composed of five traditional emirates: Hadejia, Kazaure, Gumel, Ringim, and Dutse, which predate colonial administration.
Geography and Natural Features
The state's topography is characterized by undulating plains and extensive river systems, notably the Hadejia-Jama’are River Basin. It falls within the Sudan Savannah vegetation zone, though parts of the north transition into the Sahel, making it susceptible to desertification. The Hadejia-Nguru wetlands in the north-eastern part of the state are of international ecological importance, serving as a sanctuary for diverse migratory bird species. Large granite outcroppings are a prominent feature of the landscape in the state capital, Dutse.
Economic Profile and Agriculture
Agriculture is the mainstay of the Jigawa economy, with over 80% of the population engaged in farming and animal husbandry. The state is a major producer of crops such as sesame, hibiscus, groundnuts, and rice, as well as livestock-related products, which contribute to Nigeria's non-oil export earnings. Jigawa is also known for large-scale rice and wheat production, supported by irrigation schemes along its major river banks. The Maigatari Border Market is a critical commercial hub, facilitating international trade in livestock and commodities between Nigeria and the Sahelian regions.
Traditional and Administrative Structure
The state is divided into 27 Local Government Areas and follows a dual administrative system involving modern governance and traditional institutions. The five Emirate Councils - Dutse, Hadejia, Kazaure, Gumel, and Ringim - play pivotal roles in cultural preservation and local conflict resolution. For federal representation, the state is divided into three senatorial districts: Jigawa North-West, Jigawa North-East, and Jigawa South-West. Governance in the state has historically emphasized rural infrastructure, particularly the provision of feeder roads and water projects.
Infrastructure and Education
Jigawa State possesses a well-structured road network connecting its major towns to neighboring Kano, Bauchi, and Yobe states. The Dutse International Airport was developed to support regional connectivity and enhance the state's potential for cargo and agricultural exports. In the educational sector, the state hosts several institutions including the Federal University Dutse and the Sule Lamido University in Kafin Hausa. There is a strong emphasis on integrating traditional Islamic education with modern curricula through the state's specialized school systems.
Local Government Areas (27)
Other Nigerian States
Share this profile
Help others learn about Jigawa State