The Jigawa government has approved a N5.5 billion multi-sector package for education, water supply and strategic infrastructure development projects.

The state government also approved scheduled commercial flights between Dutse and Abuja.

Mr Sagir Musa, Commissioner for Information, Youth, Sports and Culture, said this in a statement on Tuesday in Dutse.

He said that the State Executive Council adopted the report of a committee chaired by the deputy governor, and approved a memorandum of understanding with Rano Air for immediate commencement of Dutse – Abuja commercial flight operations.

The commissioner said that the new service would ease travel for investors, business executives, development partners and residents moving between Jigawa and the Federal Capital Territory.

“This is an economic connectivity project designed to attract investment, expand business opportunities and integrate Jigawa more effectively into the national economy,” he said.

Mr Musa highlighted that the partnership would stimulate commerce, tourism, hospitality services and other sectors linked to air transportation while strengthening the economic potential of the Dutse International Airport.

He said that the council approved N1.157 billion for infrastructure development at Government Science and Technical College, Auyo, to complement the transport initiative.

The commissioner said that the project was designed to provide a modern learning environment for technical and vocational education and strengthen practical skills acquisition for students preparing for the modern workforce.

Mr Musa said that the SEC also approved N2.771 billion for the construction of a new Emir’s Palace in Dutse. He said that the project would strengthen traditional institutions, preserve cultural heritage, support community development, promote peaceful coexistence, and prevent conflict.

“The council also approved Jigawa’s hosting of the 41st National Qur’anic Recitation Competition scheduled for November 14 to 30, 2026. The event is expected to attract participants from the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory, with anticipated gains in religious tourism, hospitality patronage and other socio-economic activities,  he said.

On higher education, Mr Musa said that the council approved the sponsorship of 92 lecturers from state-owned tertiary institutions for postgraduate studies at the Integral University, Lucknow, India. He said that the scholarship would cover tuition fees, living allowances and other statutory requirements for the 2026/2027 academic session.

(NAN)