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In a rare display of fiscal accountability, Jigawa State Commissioner for Special Duties, Auwalu Sankara, has refunded the state government ₦301 million in unspent funds from the 2025 Ramadan feeding initiative.
The development was announced during the State Executive Council meeting presided over by Governor Umar Namadi.
The council commended Sankara for what it described as a "notable display of accountability."
The Ramadan feeding initiative, which aimed to alleviate hunger during the holy month, was allocated ₦4.8 billion and operated across all 27 Local Government Areas of the state.
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READ ALSO: Governor of 3rd poorest state in Nigeria approves ₦4.8bn for Ramadan meals
It featured 700 feeding centres and served meals to over 5,550 residents daily during the 29-day fasting period.
Each centre catered to more than 300 individuals, with support extended to local farmers and business owners to sustain the programme’s food supply chain.
“The commissioner’s action is a commendable demonstration of integrity and transparency in public service.
“This kind of conduct reinforces the public’s trust in government and sets a benchmark for future public office holders,” the executive council stated
READ ALSO: Gov Bago to subsidise food prices for Niger residents during Ramadan
The decision to return the unspent funds comes as Nigerians increasingly demand higher standards of accountability from public officials.
Observers say the move could signal a shift in how state-level projects are managed and evaluated.
Sankara has not issued a personal statement on the refund, but was praised broadly across government circles for his stewardship.
The state government has yet to disclose how the refunded ₦301 million will be reallocated, but sources suggest it may go toward social welfare or infrastructure projects.
The Ramadan initiative also strengthened local economies by involving community members in food procurement and distribution—an approach observers say added both economic and social value.