The Nation Newspaper

Tag: Bago

  • Minister intervenes in Bago, Badegi FM saga, calls for calm

    Minister intervenes in Bago, Badegi FM saga, calls for calm

    The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris has intervened in the Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago and Badegi FM radio saga.

    The Governor had ordered the seal up of the radio station for allegedly inciting the people and the government.

    The action has drawn wide criticism from Amnesty International, Labour unions and other concerned stakeholders.

    The Minister in a statement by his media aide, Rabiu Ibrahim called for calm.

    He also commended the Niger State government for reporting the case to the National Broadcasting Commission, which is the institution charged with the responsibilities to regulate activities of broadcasting stations.

    He urged both parties to wait for the resolution of the NBC on the matter.

    “Ministry of Information and National Orientation has taken note of concerns raised by various stakeholders in the media industry regarding the recent directive by the Niger State Government to suspend the operations of Badegi FM, a radio station in Minna.

    “According to reports, the Governor of Niger State, His Excellency Mohammed Umaru Bago, issued the directive during an expanded Niger State APC Caucus Meeting in Minna on August 1, which the Honourable Minister of Information and National Orientation attended. The Governor reportedly cited allegations of unethical broadcasting and incitement against the government

    “While acknowledging the concerns raised, the Ministry notes that the suspension of broadcasting licenses falls within the purview of the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC), as stipulated by law. In light of this, the Ministry welcomes the decision of the Niger State Government to formally report the perceived “unethical behavior” of Badegi FM to the NBC for resolution.

    “The Minister appeals to all parties to remain calm, assuring that the NBC has the necessary mechanisms to resolve the issue in a fair and impartial manner,” the statement reads.

  • Bago orders closure of radio station over alleged incitement

    Bago orders closure of radio station over alleged incitement

    Niger Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago has ordered the immediate closure of Badeggi FM 90.1 Radio Station in Minna, accusing it of inciting violence against the government.

    The directive, during an expanded APC caucus meeting at the Government House, Minna, also called for the revocation of the station’s license. 

    Bago alleged that the daily activities of the station had been unethical and promoted violence, instructing the Commissioner for Homeland Security and the Commissioner of Police to seal the station and profile its owner.

    The move has sparked outrage from individuals, journalists, media groups and rights organisations, who describe it as a blatant attack on press freedom. 

    Amnesty International in a statement condemned the action as misguided and unjustifiable, accusing the governor of abusing his power and targeting independent media instead of tackling insecurity ravaging the state.

    “Under Nigerian laws, the Governor has no power to order the closure of a radio station. Choosing to blame a broadcaster for the inexcusable security failures of the government is an open attack on media freedom,” Amnesty International stated.

    The Wadata Media and Advocacy Centre (WAMAC) also denounced the decision, calling it an attempt to gag the press and urging the government to instead exercise the right of reply if aggrieved by the station’s content.

    The Niger chapter of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) Niger State Council cautioned Bago to tread with caution and in accordance with democratic tenets in issuing orders adding that the Governor needs to understand the role of the media in holding public officers accountable and not see every action taken by media organisations in the state to be against his government.

    In a statement by the Secretary of the state chapter, Usman Chiji after an emergency State working Committee meeting, NUJ stated that it is only the National Broadcasting Commission that has the legal powers to issue license to radio and television stations and to also revoke same through judicial interpretations when such stations err.

    The Union called on the Governor to approach NBC and formally lodge his complaint rather than outright directive to close down the station whose licencing is not within his executive power.

    “The Governor would have made effective use of the NUJ as professional body to table issues relating professional misconducts. In as much as the Union will not support gagging of the media houses by the authorities, it urges practitioners in the State to always abide by the ethics of the profession to uphold public confidence.”

    The NUJ further reminded the Governor on the need to carry media practitioners and houses along through partnerships instead of ordering for their closure that is against democratic principles calling for the immediate withdrawal of the order in the interest of democracy, invariably press freedom.

    Journalists practicing in the state have expressed fears that the move could set a dangerous precedent for silencing critical voices in the state. “If Badeggi FM can be shut down so easily, no newsroom is safe. This is intimidation, pure and simple,” a Minna-based reporter told our correspondent.

  • Bago tasks corps members on hard work, determination

    Bago tasks corps members on hard work, determination

    Gov. Umaru Bago of Niger has urged members of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) to embrace hard work and the willingness to succeed throughout their service year.

    Bago gave the advice on Friday during the swearing-in ceremony of 2,100 corps members of the 2025 Batch ‘A’ Stream II, held at the NYSC Permanent Orientation Camp in Paiko Local Government Area.

    The governor, who was represented by Dr Nuhu Ngaski, Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Youth and Sports Development, said the state government remained committed to creating an enabling environment for the success of the scheme.

    “Embrace hard work, determination and a willingness to succeed against all odds, because these are the highlights of any worthwhile venture in life,” he said.

    He noted that the Federal Government, in collaboration with the NYSC, recently launched the `Digital Literacy for All` campaign in Minna and encouraged corps members to take advantage of the initiative.

    According to him, corps members must leverage opportunities in Information and Communication Technology (ICT), as developed economies are technology-driven.

    “Whatever you do, however you do it, will count in your future. This is where you begin to learn leadership, discipline, timelines, and adherence to rules and regulations,” he said.

    Read Also: Bago donates N1bn, 50 trucks of grains to Mokwa flood victims

    In her remarks, Mrs Martina Shuaibu-Ibrahim, the new NYSC Coordinator to Niger, assured the corps members of the scheme’s commitment to their welfare, health, security, and general well-being.

    She encouraged them to actively participate in the Skill Acquisition and Entrepreneurship Development (SAED) programme, aimed at nurturing entrepreneurial skills.

    Shuaibu-Ibrahim also pledged to build on the achievements of her predecessor, noting that the NYSC remains a continuous and unified national institution.

    She, however, used the opportunity to extend the sympathy of the NYSC Director-General and management to the victims and families affected by the recent flood disaster in Mokwa Local Government Area.

    The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the oath of allegiance was administered by the Chief Judge of Niger, Justice Halima Abdulmalik, who was represented by Justice Mariya Ismail.(NAN)

  • Bago donates N1bn, 50 trucks of grains to Mokwa flood victims

    Bago donates N1bn, 50 trucks of grains to Mokwa flood victims

    The Niger governor, Mohammed Bago, has donated one billion naira to the victims of the recent flood disaster in the Mokwa Local Government Area of the state.

    The governor announced the donation during an on the spot assessment of houses destroyed by the flood, where he subsequently addressed the people of the community.

    He said that the state government would provide ten trucks each of rice, beans, maize, millet and sorghum to the flood victims.

    While commiserating with the victims, he promised that all donations made would be judiciously distributed to them through a committee that would be headed by his deputy, Mr Yakubu Garba.

    Bago said that the government would also provide resettlement land and services to them.

    He directed the Ministry for Land and Survey to issue a certificate of occupancy (C of O) to the Federal Government to facilitate immediate construction of the resettlement homes for the victims.

    Read Also: Bago grants state pardon to 11 death row convicts

    According to Bago, while the state government awaits the construction of the resettlement homes by the Federal Government, necessary arrangement will be made to move them from the IDP camp.

    He appreciated the Federal government, donor partners and other government agencies, as well as spirited individuals that had upported the victims.

    Earlier, the Speaker, Niger State House of Assembly, Abdulmalik Daji, sympathised with the people of Mokwa especially, the victims of the flood.

    Daji encouraged them to remain steadfast in the will of God at all times.

    Also, the Etsu Nupe, and Chairman, Niger State Council of Traditional Rulers, Alhaji Yahaya Abubakar, and the former Deputy Governor of the state, Alhaji Mohammed Ketso commended the governor for his kindness to the people.

    They also appreciated the support and solidarity from all those that had made donations.(NAN)

  • Bago grants state pardon to 11 death row convicts

    Bago grants state pardon to 11 death row convicts

    Niger State Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago has granted unconditional state pardon to 11 individuals sentenced to death over a violent communal clash between the Gaba and Anfani communities in Lavun Local Government Area.

    The announcement was made on Tuesday by the Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Barrister Nasiru Muhammad Muazu, during a press briefing at the Government House in Minna.

    Muazu explained that the pardon was issued under Section 212(1) of the 1999 Constitution (as amended), which empowers the governor to exercise the prerogative of mercy.

    He said the decision followed a formal plea from the convicts, reviewed and approved by the State Advisory Council on the Prerogative of Mercy.

    “After thorough consideration and on the council’s recommendation, Governor Bago signed the pardon instrument on May 28, 2025,” Muazu stated, confirming that the pardon has been officially gazetted.

    The 11 convicts had been sentenced to death by hanging on February 8, 2022, after being found guilty of culpable homicide stemming from the deadly 2018 clash that resulted in multiple deaths and widespread property damage.

    Read Also: 2nd year anniversary: Oborevwori, Bago list achievements

    According to the Justice Commissioner, the governor’s decision was part of a broader peace and reconciliation strategy.

    “The pardon is aimed at fostering unity, healing, and lasting peace between the two communities,” he said, noting that several peace-building meetings had been held with local leaders before the clemency decision.

    Muazu also confirmed that Governor Bago had committed to supporting long-term peace initiatives in the area, though he declined to disclose specific measures under consideration.

    The beneficiaries of the pardon are: Mohammed Mohammed, Ndana Alhaji Sheshi, Isah Baba Madu, Mohammed Mohammed Nda Bida, Abubakar Baba Salihu, Baba Mohammed Shaba, Adamu Mohammed Baba, Haruna Mohammed, Isah Mohammed Alhaji Inuwa, Ibrahim Mohammed, and Mohammed Isah.

  • Bago challenges political appointees to do more as Yoruba group disburses N78m to supporters

    Bago challenges political appointees to do more as Yoruba group disburses N78m to supporters

    Niger State Governor Umaru Muhammad Bago has issued a strong call to all political officeholders in the state to use their positions to make meaningful impacts in their communities, saying their appointments should translate into direct benefits for the people.

    The message was delivered by the All Progressives Congress (APC) Zonal Chairman for Niger North, Alhaji Yahaya Adamu Borgu, during a vote of confidence event in Kontagora.

    The event, organised by the Arewa Yoruba Unity and Progressive Ambassadors (AYUPA), also marked the official disbursement of N10,000 each to 7,800 mobilisers across the state, amounting to N78 million, sourced internally by members of the group.

    Yahaya hailed the gesture as “remarkable and worthy of emulation,” stressing that it challenges other political appointees and officeholders to do more.

    Read Also: Housing Ministry raises alarm over fake sale of recovered 753-unit estate

    He pointed out that just three appointees from AYUPA, who were recently appointed by Governor Bago, could pool resources from their salaries to empower over 500 people in Zone C alone, mostly women.

    “If just three people can do this within a short time, what are Commissioners, Directors, and others waiting for?” Yahaya asked. “This is a lesson and a wake-up call.”

    The event also saw several donations in support of the initiative, including N200,000 from the office of the APC State Chairman Alhaji Aminu Bobi, another N200,000 from the state APC Deputy Woman Leader Hajiya Bilkisu Abdullahi Liba, and additional contributions from representatives of Senator Abubakar Sani Bello, the Commissioner for Rural Development, and the Chairman of Kontagora Local Government.

    National Coordinator of AYUPA, Comrade Abdullateef Aliyu Ayodele, and the group’s founding patron, Alhaji Jamiu Akibu, explained that the initiative was their way of giving back and showing appreciation for the trust placed in them. They said the funds were raised through voluntary monthly deductions from their salaries.

  • Bago reviews motorcycles, tricycles curfew in Niger

    Bago reviews motorcycles, tricycles curfew in Niger

    Niger State Governor and farmer Mohammed Umaru Bago has reviewed the curfew hours for the movement of motorcycles and tricycles in Minna metropolis.

    He stated that the new schedule, which will begin on Monday, May 5, will be from 8 pm to 6 am, explaining that this change is due to the security update received from the state security committee.

    Read Also: Gov. Bago urges religious bodies to tackle hunger through farming in Niger

    Bago mentioned that his administration will continue to engage with the security committee regarding the outcome of the curfew, making further adjustments when necessary.

    The farmer governor encouraged the populace to remain law-abiding citizens, as his administration is committed to implementing policies that will positively impact them and ensure their well-being.

    It is worth recalling that the Governor previously imposed a 6 pm to 6 am curfew on motorcycles and tricycles throughout the state capital due to the increasing rate of thuggery activities and insecurity.

  • Gov. Bago urges religious bodies to tackle hunger through farming in Niger

    Gov. Bago urges religious bodies to tackle hunger through farming in Niger

    Niger State Governor Umar Bago has called on major religious institutions to engage in large-scale farming and livestock production as a means of combating hunger and creating job opportunities for Nigerian youth. 

    Speaking on Sunday during the 44th anniversary celebration of the Liberation Mandate of the Living Faith Church worldwide at its Niger State headquarters in Minna, Bago also urged the church to intensify efforts in promoting family values among the younger generation, emphasizing that strong family foundations contribute to a better society. 

    Acknowledging the church’s role in nation-building, the governor challenged major religious organisations, including Living Faith Church, to leverage their resources and embark on integrated farming projects to help alleviate food insecurity across the country.

    “I rejoice with the Living Faith Church on this auspicious 44th anniversary celebration of the church. We acknowledge the good work and the sacrifices of the church in the years past.

    “I am, however, appealing to Dr. Bishop David Oyedepo of Living Faith Church and other major churches to go into farming and help in the war against hunger, provide job opportunities for our teeming youths, and by extension drastically reduce the insecurity occurring in the country.”

    As a show of commitment, the governor said the state government was ready to provide land to the church and other interested organizations to go into large-scale farming, adding that his administration would support such initiatives.

    He noted that this year’s theme of Living Faith Church, “2025: My New Era Year,” resonates with his “New Niger State” policy.

    He then coveted the prayers of the church for those in positions of authority and for the President Bola Ahmed Tinubu-led administration.

    Concerned by the level of societal decadence, the governor reminded the church that it has a vital role to play in promoting and inculcating the family values, which are gradually being eroded.

    He attributed the increasing decadence in society to the erosion of family values and tasked the church to play the lead role in ensuring that society retraced its steps and imbibe the promotion of family values.

    Earlier, the State Pastor of the Living Faith Church, Pastor John Dominion Anso, said the Church will not abdicate its responsibility of praying for those in positions of authority and for the government

    He commended the governor for identifying with the church in celebrating the 44th anniversary of the Commission and prayed for peace and progress of the state and the country.

    Gov. Bago was accompanied to the service by the deputy speaker of the Niger State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Afiniki Dauda, Chief of Staff to the governor, Special Adviser to the Governor on Public Private Partnership, Hon. Jonathan Vatsa, Special Adviser on Inter-tribal Affairs, Chief George Dike, Coordinator to the Governor on Christian Affairs, Pastor Lawrence Mohammed Isah, among other top government functionaries.

    Also in attendance at the thanksgiving service, the Niger State Deputy Chairman of Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) and resident Pastor of House on the Rock, Pastor PetRock Sadiq, the Mai Anguwa Gbaiko, Chief Amos Nakura and other community leaders

    The Thanksgiving service climaxed the 4-day celebration of the church’s 44th anniversary, which started worldwide on Wednesday.

  • My relationship with deputy governor cordial, says Bago

    My relationship with deputy governor cordial, says Bago

    Niger State Governor, Umaru Mohammed Bago, has said the relationship between him and his deputy, Comrade Yakubu Garba, remains perfect and harmonious.

    Speaking to newsmen in Minna after the Workers Day Parade held at the 123 Quarters in Minna, Bago said the news going round about the strained relationship between him and his deputy was untrue.

    It would be recalled that the Deputy Governor had been alleged to have packed out of his official residence which is close to government house due to some disagreement between him and the Governor.

    Sources close to government said there have been series of meetings to address this seeming rift between the duo.

    Read Also: Bago’s security absurdities

    The Deputy Governor was absent from the workers day parade and there was no explanation for his absence. This further fuelled a lot of questions by the people wondering what was happening between the Governor and his deputy.

    But, the Governor while reacting to this development said he and his deputy remain a team and cannot be broken.

    “Rumors will remain rumors. My relationship with my deputy is very perfect and very harmonious. We are a team, they can’t break us. Our focus is on the goal and we will achieve it and a new Niger is possible”, he declared.

  • Bago promises subsidised cars, free internet, 10,000 houses for Niger workers

    Bago promises subsidised cars, free internet, 10,000 houses for Niger workers

    Niger state governor Umaru Mohammed Bago has pledged to improve the welfare of workers across the state, promising a range of benefits including subsidised cars, free internet access, and the construction of 10,000 housing units for civil servants.

    Governor Bago made the announcements while addressing workers during the 2025 International Workers’ Day parade held at the 123 Quarters Parade Ground.

    “I will make the lives of all workers in Niger State very comfortable,” he assured. “We are working with Chinese investors to establish an electric vehicle assembly plant in Niger, and civil servants will soon begin to own their cars at subsidised rates.”

    He also revealed plans to provide free internet services in schools and government offices, as part of his administration’s commitment to digital access and education reform.

    “We have invested in CNG facilities, and we are rebuilding a new Niger State where comfort and opportunity are accessible to all,” he said.

    Highlighting his broader development agenda, Governor Bago confirmed that 10,000 houses would be built for state workers to ease the housing deficit and improve living conditions.

    Meanwhile, the Niger State Chairman of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Comrade Idrees Lafene, used the occasion to call on the government to implement and domesticate the new retirement age of 65 years and 40 years of service for teachers.

    He also urged the prompt implementation of pending promotions and Annual Step Increments for all categories of workers at both the state and local government levels.

    “We demand the full implementation of hazard, medical, and disturbance allowances for judiciary workers to reflect the sensitive nature of their duties; enactment of a policy making the payment of monthly pensions to retirees a first-line charge in wage disbursements to guarantee dignity and financial security for our senior citizens, defrayment of outstanding excess workload liability owed state-owned tertiary institutions and improved security architecture across the state to safeguard lives, livelihoods and attract investment.”

    Lafene who was represented by Architect Ibrahim Gana asked for the redemption of the government’s pledge to refund payments made for Z-Pads by eligible members of the Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT), the payment of impress school heads and provision of adequate instructional materials/teaching aids to schools and the extension of allowances including wardrobe, hazard, shift duty, overtime, and hardline allowances to all deserving workers to boost morale and productivity.

    Read Also: Arewa Think Tank backs Bago on executive order to rid Niger of criminals

    He also lamented the shrinking space for workers’ rights, free speech, civic engagement, and the economic conditions that have continued to burden the working people of Nigeria, reiterating that workers are the backbone of any society.

    “It is our hard work, sacrifice, and loyalty that keep the economy running. However, today, many workers are experiencing increasing economic hardships, including inflation, job insecurity, ineffective implementation of wage agreements, and inadequate social protection services, among other issues.

    “In the face of these adversities, it is even more critical that we reclaim and protect our civic space, the space where we advocate, agitate, and organise for a better tomorrow. We must defend our right to peaceful assembly, our right to collective bargaining, and our right to demand accountability from those in power.”

    The NLC Chairman then applauded the governor for his interventions in worker welfare and civil service reform, especially the implementation of the ₦80,000 Niger State Minimum Wage for both state and local government workers, which has set a bold standard for worker remuneration nationwide.