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Jigawa invests ₦586m in border zone to boost trade

From The Punch · () English

Translated from English, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

At a glance

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  • Jigawa State has approved ₦586.26 million for the renovation of the Maigatari Border Free Zone and a nearby guest house.
  • The investment aims to boost cross-border trade, investment, and economic activities, particularly with Niger Republic.
  • The project is part of the state's broader economic development agenda to improve infrastructure and the ease of doing business.

Jigawa State is investing ₦586.26 million to renovate facilities at the Maigatari Border Free Zone and the Government Guest House in Gumel. The State Executive Council approved the contract, signaling a commitment to enhancing cross-border trade, attracting investment, and stimulating economic activities within the state.

The council approved the award of a contract valued at ₦586,260,886.44 for the renovation of various structures at the Maigatari Border Free Zone, alongside the general renovation of the Government Guest House in Gumel.

— Sagir MusaCommissioner for Information, Youth, Sports and Culture, detailing the approved contract value and scope.

The renovation of the Maigatari Border Free Zone is intended to improve its operational effectiveness and create a more conducive environment for commercial activities. Officials believe this will promote trade between Jigawa and neighboring countries, especially Niger Republic, and make the state more appealing to both local and foreign investors. The zone is considered strategically vital for regional commerce and positioning Jigawa as a key economic gateway.

The renovation of the Maigatari Border Free Zone facilities is intended to improve the effective operation of the zone and create an environment that will support increased commercial activities.

— Sagir MusaExplaining the purpose behind renovating the border free zone.

In addition to the trade zone, the Government Guest House in Gumel will undergo general renovation. This aims to provide improved accommodation and support facilities for government officials and important visitors, thereby supporting the economic activities linked to the border zone and the state at large. The renovated guest house is also expected to serve investors, development partners, and other stakeholders visiting the area for business and investment-related engagements.

The Maigatari Border Free Zone remains strategically important to Jigawa because of its potential to facilitate regional commerce and position the state as a major gateway for economic activities between Nigeria and neighbouring countries.

— Sagir MusaHighlighting the strategic significance of the border free zone.

These projects are integral to the administration's economic development strategy, focusing on expanding trade opportunities and facilitating business operations across Jigawa State. Improved infrastructure at the border free zone is expected to strengthen the state's economy and create employment opportunities.

The investment in the border free zone is expected to facilitate regional commerce, attract investment and create opportunities for employment and sustainable economic growth.

— Sagir MusaOutlining the expected economic benefits of the investment.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by The Punch in English. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.