The Jigawa State Government has issued a strong warning to principals of boarding schools across the state against any attempt to undermine the students’ feeding programme.
This development comes after the government, on January 7, dismissed and suspended several school feeding contractors over alleged fraud, supply of substandard food items, and inflation of student figures in some boarding schools. The action was taken following multiple complaints from parents and the public, as well as unannounced inspections by officials of the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Special Duties.
The latest warning followed another inspection at the Girls Model Boarding School, Kudai, in Dutse, the state capital, on Monday. The visit was led by the Commissioner for Humanitarian Affairs and Special Duties, Auwal Sankara, to verify compliance with new quality standards introduced after the suspension of defaulting contractors.
During the inspection, the commissioner confirmed the immediate suspension of the school principal after discovering a 30 per cent inflation in the student headcount during the last audit. The vice-principal has been appointed to serve as acting principal until a new substantive replacement is posted.
Sankara noted a major improvement in the quality of meals provided to students, saying that nutritious and high-quality food has replaced what he described as previously “unfit” meals and low-grade staples.
“Our visit today proves that we are not just making temporary changes; we are instituting a permanent culture of excellence,” Sankara stated.
He further emphasized that the ministry would continue to uphold Governor Umar Namadi’s 12-point agenda and protect its integrity.
“Any school administrator or contractor found sabotaging the feeding programme will be considered an enemy of the state’s progress,” he warned.
The commissioner called on parents, students, and community members to remain watchful and report any lapses noticed in the school feeding process.
“The ministry will continue unannounced visits across the state to ensure full compliance. No one is untouchable when it comes to the welfare of our children,” Sankara added.
