The Jigawa State Government has announced a strategic partnership with the Nigerian Customs Service (NCS) to revitalise the long-dormant Maigatari Free Trade Zone, with renewed efforts aimed at boosting economic activity and cross-border trade in the state.
The initiative was revealed on Wednesday during a courtesy visit by the Controller of the Kano/Jigawa Area Command, Dalhatu Abubakar, to Governor Umar Namadi at the Government House in Dutse.
Established in 2000, the Maigatari Free Trade Zone was designed to enhance industrialisation, attract foreign investment, and capitalise on its proximity to the Nigeria-Niger border. Despite its potential, the zone has remained largely inactive for over two decades.
Governor Namadi described the zone as a key economic asset for the state and expressed optimism that the current collaboration with the Nigerian Customs Service would lead to a full revival of operations. “This government is fully committed to bringing Maigatari to full operation,” he said, affirming his administration’s resolve to unlock the zone’s economic value.
He noted that Jigawa State had already taken significant steps towards reviving the zone, including the payment of statutory licenses and rural resettlement efforts in the surrounding areas. The state is also in discussions with potential investors to support the development of the zone.
Commending the Nigerian Customs Service for its willingness to support the project, Namadi added, “Your visit is a testament to the importance of partnership. We are ready to work closely with the NCS to ensure the success of Maigatari.”
Responding, Controller Dalhatu Abubakar assured the governor of Customs’ readiness to operationalise the zone. “If you want operations today, we can start today,” he said, while acknowledging some existing administrative and technical issues that need to be addressed.
Highlighting Maigatari’s strategic location, Abubakar said, “Unlike Kano, Maigatari borders a neighbouring country. That gives you a comparative advantage in international trade.”
He noted that with the right infrastructure and policy support, the zone could transform Jigawa into a major player in the northern trade corridor. “We have a lot in common and we are ready to brainstorm to meet your administration’s objectives,” he said.
The renewed partnership signals a broader push by the Jigawa State Government to revitalise legacy projects and leverage regional trade to spur economic growth.
