27-Year Wait Ends as Construction Begins on New Dutse Emir’s Palace

A new palace for the Dutse Emirate has moved closer to reality following the foundation-laying ceremony for the first phase of the project, valued at about ₦2.6 billion.

The Jigawa State Government has pledged to provide the necessary funding and support to ensure the project is completed within 18 months.

Representing Governor Umar Namadi at the ceremony in Dutse, Secretary to the State Government Bala Ibrahim described the project as a significant development for the emirate and a fulfilment of a commitment made by the governor.

He urged the contractor to maintain the pace of work and meet the agreed completion period.

According to him, the first phase will comprise several structures and is expected to add to the development and prestige of Dutse, the state capital.

The Emir of Dutse, Muhammad Hameem Nuhu Sunusi, welcomed the development, saying he had waited for nearly three decades to see a modern palace constructed for the emirate.

He described the project as an important landmark not only for Dutse but for the people of Jigawa State as a whole.

Despite the construction of the new palace, the existing palace will not be abandoned. The Emir said the old facility would remain in use, particularly for receiving visitors and dignitaries.

He explained that the old palace carries historical and cultural significance and remains a place where the history of the emirate can be appreciated.

Meanwhile, a representative of the contractor, Newpro Quants Consultant Limited, Abubakar Kaila, said work had already commenced after the company received mobilisation from the state government.

Kaila said the contractor had prepared a work programme and was committed to delivering the project within the stipulated 18-month timeframe.

The state government also assured residents that it would give the project the necessary backing to ensure its successful completion.