A panel of experts at the ongoing Jigawa Economic and Investment Summit has identified reliable power supply, policy consistency, technology adoption, logistics infrastructure and stronger support for micro, small and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) as the critical drivers required to fast-track industrialisation and attract sustainable investments into the state.
The panel, facilitated by Umar Nuhu Muhammad, development consultant, featured Ifeoma Uzokpala, executive director, Risk Management and Technology at the Bank of Industry; Charles Odili, director-general of the Small and Medium Enterprises Development Agency of Nigeria (SMEDAN); Bala Ado Kofar Mata, professor at Bayero University, Kano; Suleiman Tofa, entrepreneur; Rislanudeen Muhammad, former economist at the Bank of Industry; and Ayo Aiyepeku, general manager of IGIT FZE, Africa.
The session focused on practical strategies for positioning Jigawa as a competitive industrial and investment destination, with particular emphasis on strengthening infrastructure, improving access to finance, promoting innovation and leveraging the state’s strategic geographic location.
A major highlight of the discussion was the proposed Maigatari Special Economic Zone, which the panelists described as one of Jigawa’s biggest opportunities for industrial transformation if supported with the right infrastructure and enabling policies.
The experts argued that Maigatari’s location along Nigeria’s border with the Republic of Niger gives it a unique advantage for regional trade, adding that the zone could serve as a gateway to markets across Niger, Chad and northern Cameroon.
They observed that ongoing improvements in road infrastructure have already reduced travel time and logistics costs, making the area increasingly attractive to investors seeking access to regional markets.
Ayo Aiyepeku said the state could unlock the full economic potential of the Maigatari Border Free Zone by complementing existing infrastructure with the establishment of an inland dry port.
According to him, a dry port would simplify cargo handling, reduce pressure on the nation’s seaports, lower transportation costs for manufacturers and exporters, and significantly improve the competitiveness of businesses operating within the free zone.
He also stressed that the success of the economic zone would depend largely on the availability of adequate, effective and stable electricity, noting that uninterrupted power supply remains one of the most important considerations for investors when deciding where to establish industries.
Aiyepeku commended Governor Umar Namadi for scaling up infrastructure development within the Maigatari Border Free Zone and for demonstrating commitment to attracting both local and foreign investments through the J-Invest initiative.
He said the investments already made by the state government have laid a solid foundation for industrial growth and urged the administration to sustain the momentum by completing critical infrastructure and ensuring that businesses enjoy a conducive operating environment.
Other panelists echoed the call for improved electricity supply, with one recommending the provision of dedicated Band A power to the Maigatari Free Trade Zone to guarantee uninterrupted electricity for manufacturers and investors.
The panel agreed that reliable power would reduce production costs, improve productivity and enhance the competitiveness of industries operating within the zone.
Speaking on access to finance, Ifeoma Uzokpala said businesses seeking commodity export financing must first become investment-ready by ensuring product quality, maintaining sound governance structures and complying with international standards.
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