The chairman of the Bank of Industry (BoI), Mr Mansur Mukhtar, has commended the governor of Jigawa State, Mr Umar Namadi for his exemplary leadership and the strong relationship between Jigawa State and the bank which has facilitated various developmental initiatives in the state.
The initiatives include the establishment of office spaces and the provision of ₦2 billion in matching funds to support local businesses, with an additional ₦2 billion in funding for local initiatives.
Mukhtar made the commendation when he and the management team of BoI paid a visit to the governor in Dutse to condole the government and people of the state on the recent fuel tanker explosion in Majiya, Taura Local Government Area, which led to the death of over one hundred people and injury of many.
“I would like to express our gratitude for your strong support to the Bank of Industry. The collaboration between Jigawa State and the bank has been fruitful, especially with the provision of office space and N2 billion in matching funds, along with an additional N2 billion to support local initiatives. Your proactive approach has empowered the people of Jigawa to benefit from our programmes,” Mukhtar said.
He reaffirmed the Bank’s commitment to empowering communities, creating jobs, and supporting entrepreneurship in Jigawa, and across Nigeria, under the federal government’s renewed hope agenda.
Reflecting on the long-standing partnership, Mukhtar recalled the governor’s visit to Jeddah during his (Mukhtar’s) tenure at the Islamic Development Bank, where he was impressed by Namadi’s clear vision for Jigawa State.
“In a different capacity, I recall your visit to us in Jeddah when I was vice president of operations at the Islamic Development Bank. Your engagement there made me proud to witness a governor with a clear vision for his state. I thank you for your continued dedication, and I pray Allah guides you in your leadership.”
Thereafter, he conveyed the sympathy of the bank’s staff and management to the families of tanker explosion casualties as well as the injured victims.
The BoI chairman emphasised the importance of compassion and unity during difficult times, especially when dealing with the loss of loved ones and the suffering of those affected.
In his response, Namadi expressed his profound gratitude to the BoI for its heartfelt condolences and financial support for the victims of the tanker explosion.
“On behalf of the people and government of Jigawa State, I sincerely thank you, the chairman, and your team for your condolence visit following the tragic tanker explosion in Majiya. This incident has affected us deeply, and we appreciate your concern and support during this difficult time,” he said.
The governor acknowledged the magnitude of the tragedy, noting that 180 people lost their lives and 87 others remained hospitalised.
He thanked the bank for its contribution of ₦10 million, which, according to him, would help alleviate the suffering of the victims’ families.
Besides, he praised the bank for its continued support in driving development across the state, highlighting the successful partnership between Jigawa State and the BOI.
Namadi lauded the BOI’s efforts under Mukhtar’s leadership and emphasised his government’s commitment to fostering economic growth and development.
“I congratulate you and your board for the excellent strides you’ve made since your appointment. The Bank of Industry is on the path to success under your leadership, and we are honored to work alongside you for the benefit of Jigawa State,” he declared.
