The Nation Newspaper

Tag: Bago

  • Insecurity will not stop investors from investing in Niger state – Bago

    Insecurity will not stop investors from investing in Niger state – Bago

    Niger state government has said that the insecurity bedevilling some parts of the state will not stop investors from investing in the state.

    This is coming just as the state government blacklisted and withdrew the licences of some mining companies who have continued mining despite the government’s ban on mining across the state.

    The state commissioner of industry, trade, and investment, Aminu Takuma, while speaking to newsmen about the forthcoming 2nd quarter meeting of the Nigeria PPP Network said that the government is always honest to investors about the state of insecurity in the state and lets them know that it is not the whole state that is affected.

    “Banditry is a thing that happens in many countries and not only Nigeria or Niger state. We always do comparative analysis for investors when they call about the insecurity they hear in the state.

    “If you drive from one end of Niger state to another end, it will take you about six hours. If you look at travelling from Italy to France, it is shorter and if you put these two countries together, it fits into Niger state.

    Read Also: Insecurity: Army holds media chat in Kano, pledges loyalty to Tinubu

    ‘So we tell investors that the issue of banditry in Niger state does not affect the whole state but a part of the state which is about six hours drive from where we are asking them to come and invest”.

    Takuma explained that the state government is putting in a lot into ensuring that banditry and kidnapped ends in the state adding that two ministries have been created to effectively look into this menace.

    He said that the state government has blacklisted some mining companies for flaunting the ban order on mining across the state warning that any company that is caught mining in the state would be blacklisted and their licence to mine in the state would be revoked.

    “People are blaming us that the government have put a ban on doing business in the area of solid minerals and we tell them that it is because we are trying to clean up the sector. We cannot afford people to come and mine solid minerals and end up getting caught up in insecurity, it will cost a bad name for the state.

    “The governor has placed a blanket ban on mining and the order is still in place. The recent mine collapse across the state revealed that people are still doing it. We will expose all of them. When we catch any company, we will blacklist the company and revoke its licence. No one is bigger than the state”, he warned.

    Speaking about the Nigeria Public Private Partnership Network meeting, the Commissioner said that the meeting would be held on the 26th and 27th of June and would bring together leaders from both the public and private sectors to discuss and explore innovative ways to leverage Public Private Partnerships (PPPs) to advance the national objectives of food security and economic growth.

    He explained that the meeting would have sessions designed to foster dialogue, share best practices, and generate actionable insights that can be implemented across various states to enhance infrastructure development through PPPs.

    “By working together, we can ensure the delivery of essential infrastructure that supports food security and stimulates economic growth, thereby improving the quality of life for all Nigerians”, he said.

  • Bago calls for probe of N90b Hajj subsidy

    Bago calls for probe of N90b Hajj subsidy

    • Governor seeks review of NAHCON

    Niger State Governor Umaru Bago yesterday called for the review of activities of the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON).

    Bago, who called for the probe of the N90 billion subsidy paid by the Federal government for the Hajj operations, vowed to lead a committee of governors to meet relevant authorities to champion the review of the commission.

    According to statement by Bago’s Chief Press Secretary (CPS), Bologi Ibrahim, in Minna, the governor made the call in a chat with reporters in Mecca, Saudi Arabia, wher he assessed this year’s Hajj operation.

    He expressed concern that rather than exert its energies on playing regulatory roles, NAHCON turned itself to an operator of Hajj activities.

    Read Also: Tinubu calls for punishment of civil servants receiving salaries abroad

    Recounting the hitches pilgrims encountered, the described the 2024 Hajj exercise as a failure and suggested that Hajj operation should be private sector-driven for effective and efficient service delivery.

    The statement quoted Bago as saying: “Let the private sector drive Hajj operations, NAHCON should be a regulator at the centre.

    “I am leading a committee of governors to the Nigeria Governor’s Forum (NGF), from there we go to the NEC (National Economic Council).

    “I will propose this motion and we will send a Bill to the National Assembly where this issue of NAHCON would be reviewed.

    “NAHCON is not helping matters, our Federal Government is too big to be worried about Hajj operations, these are supposed to be local government issues and not even states’”, Bago said.

    The governor said that the state governments should be able to organise pilgrimage and engage agents from the private as it is done in other countries.

    He called for the probe of N90 billion subsidy paid by the Federal government for the Hajj operations.

    The governor described as unfortunate that some states, including Niger, still paid some billions for the pilgrimage, in spite of the subsidy.

    He alleged that the pilgrims, who paid N8 million each, were given only $400 (each) to take care of themselves for about 40 days.

    According to him, the N90 billion subsidy would have made more impact if routed through the states.

  • Niger will boost monthly revenue to N100b, says Gov Bago

    Niger will boost monthly revenue to N100b, says Gov Bago

    Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago has asked the people of Niger State to expect more development in the coming years.

    The governor asked the people not to worry about where the money is coming from but how the government spends the money.

    Speaking at the anniversary lecture to mark the first anniversary in office, Bago disclosed that the state now generates N10 billion monthly adding that the government is working to generate up to N100 billion monthly.

    “We are ambitious and bold about what we want to do. We will not spend people but we will spend money to have people live. Don’t worry about the money would come. Only worry about how we spend the money.”

    Bago said the projects he is doing are just the beginning of the plans he has for his new Niger project stating that he is determined to give the best to the people and ensure they benefit from every sector.

    “When we do these works, don’t thank me. It is your right, it is not a privilege but your right. It is your right for us to provide you with necessities. If you do not have one, ask us and we will give you one. We need to give to the society what the society has given to us.”

    Read Also: Niger has spent lots of money purchasing security gadgets – Bago

    The governor stated that those who feel they cannot match up with the speed of the government should take the back seat as the government is determined to work overtime to ensure things work in the state, “we will be working for 36 hours a day.

    “We have been in gear one, now we are going to gear two because all we have done in the past one year is just the top of the iceberg”, he said.

    Bago appreciated his team and the arms of government for making the programmes, projects, and policies made so far in the state work while appreciating the people for their prayers and support.

    The first anniversary lectures were given by the former Minister of Commerce, Engineer Mustafa Bello who spoke on ‘Assessing the Bago administration’s policy footprint’ and the former Vice Chancellor of IBB University, Lapai, Professor Nasiru Maturate who spoke on “The Bago administration’s policy legacy.”

    The two speakers urged the governor to remain in the work he is doing and not allow himself to be detracted by anyone.

  • Civil society groups laud Bago’s drive in agriculture, infrastructure

    Civil society groups laud Bago’s drive in agriculture, infrastructure

    A coalition of civil society groups has commended Niger Governor Umar Bago for what they described as his exemplary leadership and remarkable achievements in various sectors, particularly in agriculture and infrastructural development.

    The North Central Transformation Ambassadors, at a press conference in Abuja, praised Governor Bago’s administration for its commitment to transforming the state’s economy and improving the lives of citizens.

    Convener of the group, Dauda Yakubu, said the Governor’s innovative approach to governance has made Niger a model State in the north-central region. 

    Yakubu added that the Governor has brought about a new era of development and prosperity in the entire zone, highlighted by his transparency, accountability and integrity.

    ”Since assuming office, Governor Bago has hit the ground running, taking governance to unprecedented heights. His few months in office have been nothing short of remarkable. Beyond mere enthusiasm, he has translated his vision into tangible action, expending extraordinary energy to address long-standing challenges that had plagued the state for years,” the statement said. 

    ”Governor Bago’s leadership has been marked by a clear vision and goal for a “Transformative Niger”, by being focused on providing social amenities, sustainable economy, good governance, and urban renewal. One of the most remarkable facets of Governor Bago’s leadership, which has distinguished him as a singular exception among his peers, is his unwavering dedication to infrastructure development.

    ”As the empirical evidence now attests, roads that were previously inaccessible have undergone significant rehabilitation, thereby establishing vital connections between remote communities and substantially enhancing the ease of movement for residents. This strategic emphasis on infrastructure has not only augmented connectivity but has also catalyzed economic growth and measurably improved the overall standard of living for the populace of Niger State. 

    Read Also: Niger has spent lots of money purchasing security gadgets – Bago

    “His unrelenting commitment to progress and development has yielded concrete and tangible outcomes that have positively impacted the lives of the people in Niger State, leaving an indelible mark on their well-being and prosperity. From infrastructure to social welfare, Governor Bago’s administration has consistently demonstrated an unshakeable resolve to prioritize the welfare and prosperity of Nigerlites, thereby setting a new paradigm for exemplary leadership.

    ”It was astounding to the North Central Transformation Ambassadors in learning of his actions towards the fuel subsidy removal. In response to the fuel subsidy removal, Governor Bago’s administration awarded a contract for the purchase of 200 compressed natural gas (CNG) buses to provide free transportation to students and at a subsidized rate for civil servants. This initiative has alleviated the burden of transportation costs for the citizens, especially students and civil servants, demonstrating the governor’s commitment to the welfare of the people. 

    ”Furthermore, Governor Bago has prioritized education and healthcare, recognizing these sectors as crucial pillars for the advancement of any society. His administration has invested significantly in revamping educational institutions, ensuring that the youth of Niger State have access to quality education and the tools they need to succeed in an increasingly competitive world. 

    ”His exceptional endeavors in the realm of security have also garnered considerable attention. Governor Bago’s innovative community-centric approach has yielded phenomenal results over time, effectively mitigating the youth restiveness that once imperiled Minna.

    ”Furthermore, Governor Bago has consistently demonstrated unwavering support for agriculture and rural development, recognizing the pivotal role they play in empowering local communities and ensuring food security. It’s  no news anymore that Niger State has attracted over a billion dollars in Agric business investments since the inception of his administration in 2023. 

    “Through strategic investments in agricultural infrastructure and provision of support to farmers, his administration has significantly bolstered the agricultural sector, thereby stimulating economic growth, fostering a sense of pride and self-sufficiency among the people of Niger State, and contributing substantially to the state’s food security.”

    The group further said Bago’s leadership has brought hope and renewed confidence to the people of Niger State, urging him to continue his good work.

    While calling on other Governors to emulate Bago’s leadership model, which they described as “people-centred and development-oriented” Yakubu called on Nigerlites and indeed the entire north-central to continue to support the governor.

  • No rejection of corps members expected from public institutions, says Niger governor 

    No rejection of corps members expected from public institutions, says Niger governor 

    Niger state governor, Mohammed Umar Bago, has said that there is no need for corps members to seek for placement in private institutions and risk rejection as the institutions in the public sectors are more than enough to accomodate all corps members.

    The governor stated this at the closing ceremony of the 2024 Batch A, Stream 2 Orientation Course at the NYSC Permanent Orientation Camp in Paiko, Niger state.

    The governor who was represented by the Commissioner for Youth and

    Sports Development, Yahaya Ibrahim Gulbin-Boka, Yahaya Boka, said that no public institution is expected to reject corps members urging the corps members to file complaints of ant public institutions that reject them. 

    “I urge the Corps members to accept their posting in good faith. We do not expect public institutions to reject Corpers. Rejections can only come from the private sectors. The institutions in the public sectors are enough to accomodate all the corps members. We don’t expect rejection from the public institutions at all”, he stated.

    The governor said that the state is committed to the security and welfare of the Corps members urging them to avoid being lured into degrading and harmful acts capable of destroying their lives and the honour of their respective homes.

    Read Also: Niger has spent lots of money purchasing security gadgets – Bago

    He said that the NYSC represents one of the surest ways of achieving the desire unity, sustainable development and national integration stressing that the task of building a stable nation with robust economy demand the collective effort of all.

    Bago then reassured the Corps members of the resolve of his administration in embarking on live transforming and meaningful developmental projects which will drive the economy growth of the state and improve its standard of living. 

    “My administration will leverage and place high premium on your vibrant energies and creative ability towards the attainment of these set goals. I therefore call on you to join us in creating a new Niger.”

    In her address, the Niger state NYSC Coordinator, Mrs Olayinka Abdulwahab also enjoined the Corps members to accept their postings in good faith adding that the postings was done in line with the laid down rules and policies of the government and the Act establishing the NYSC Scheme.

    She then appealed to institutions to always accept corps members posted to them, make necessary provisions for their welfare and mentor them properly to enable them develop their potentials.

    “Settle down quickly and start imparting on your host community. You must also put in your best in your post camp skill acquisition training. By so doing, you will perfect all you learnt in camp and make good use of your skills.

    “Ensure you discharge your duties at your places of primary assignment with utmost sense of duty and be committed to the ethics of the organization you are posted to. Do not be a truant and avoid lateness to your PPA”, she advised. 

  • Niger governor renovates NYSC camp structures destroyed by rainstorm

    Niger governor renovates NYSC camp structures destroyed by rainstorm

    Niger state governor, Mohammed Umar Bago, has deployed men and materials to renovate the camp structures of the state NYSC orientation camp destroyed by rain storm.

    There had been strong rainstorms in Minna, Paikoro, and other parts of Niger state over the past two days.

    The buildings affected by the rain storm include the camp multi-purpose hall, stores, clinic, security post, pavilion, and electrical poles.

    The governor sent men and materials after the swearing-in of Corps Members in the 2024 Batch A stream II at the Permanent Orientation Camp, Paiko on Tuesday.

    The Niger state NYSC coordinator, Mrs Alidat Olayinka, has said during the swearing-in of the corps members of the State Governor’s approval of the renovation of structures destroyed by the rainstorm.

    She said that the government had earlier approved the renovation of the entire orientation camp in a bid to ensure the comfort of corps members.

    Read Also: NYSC DG bars Corps members from talking to Press

    Olayinka called on the Corps Members to sustain a high level of discipline and remain compliant with camp rules and regulations.

    “You must continue to distance yourself from cultism, drug abuse, and other social vices. I also urge you to avoid using social media to fuel fake news, fuelling hatred and other negative purposes but rather deploy same for the promotion of national unity and development,” she said.

    The Coordinator called on the Corpers to be security conscious and report any suspicious activity to the camp authorities stressing the need for them to avail themselves of the skill Acquisition and Entrepreneurship Development (SAED) during their stay in camp.

    The Niger State Governor, Mohammed Bago represented by the state’s commissioner for Youth and Sports Development, Yahaya Ibrahim Gulbinboka said that the government is committed to prioritising the welfare and security of corps members.

    He assured the corps members of their safety saying that they should not seek redeployment as the government is determined to ensure their safety.

    Congratulating the corps members for the successful completion of their tertiary education, Bago urged them to see the call as an opportunity to contribute to the development of the country.

  • Niger has spent lots of money purchasing security gadgets – Bago

    Niger has spent lots of money purchasing security gadgets – Bago

    Niger State Governor, Mohammed Umar Bago, has disclosed that his administration has spent lots of money in purchasing sophisticated security gadgets to help in tackling insecurity in the state.

    He said his administration would continue to invest heavily in the purchase of security equipment to address the security challenges in the State and finally bring an end to it.

    The Governor stated this when he paid sallah homage to the Emir of Kagara, Alhaji Ahmed Attahiru Gunna II at his palace in Kagara, Rafi local government area of Niger state.

    The Governor reiterated that work and strategies are being done around the clock to ensure that insecurity becomes a thing of the past in the state.

    Read Also; How governors usurp Ifa’s role in choice of traditional rulers

    Bago also used the occasion to commiserate with the Emir and the people of the Emirate over the recent killings in the Madaka community by terrorists.

    The Emir of Kagara, Ahmed Attahiru Gunna II, commended the efforts of the state Governor in improving the security situation in the region, saying that because the insecurity situation has been reduced, some farmers are being encouraged to return to their farms.

    The Emir also appreciated the Governor for his visit and his efforts to better the lives of the citizens, pledging the support of the Emirate for his people-oriented policies and towards ensuring that he succeeds.

  • Easter: Pray for an end to insecurity – Bago urges Christians

    Easter: Pray for an end to insecurity – Bago urges Christians

    Niger State Governor, Mohammed Umaru Bago has called on Christians in Niger state to use the occassion of the Easter celebration to sustain their prayers to God to end the insecurity bedeviling the state.

    In his Easter message, the Governor said that he believes that the prayers of the people can go a long way in complimenting government efforts in totally eradicating the insecurity.

    Bago reiterated his administration’s unwavering resolve to confront the security challenges bedevilling the State assuring that he will not rest on his oars to ensure that his policy thrusts for the “New Niger” are achieved.

    In the message, the Governor noted that Easter which is a significant celebration observed by Christians to commemorate the death and the resurrection of Jesus Christ is a season that depicts love, sacrifice and forgiveness as epitomized by Jesus Christ.

    Read Also; Okuama-17 and improbable honours

    While felicitating with the Christians, Bago called on them to use the Easter season to solemnly reflect and imbibe all the virtues of Jesus Christ.

    Also, the Niger state Chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Most Reverned Bulus Yohanna in his Easter message called on Christains across the state to be hopeful, show concern for each other and pray for the leaders.

    “Let us therefore, pray for our Leaders for God’s guidance especially our dear Governor, Umaru Mohammed Bago that God will grant him the grace to pursue with vigour and actualize the ‘New Niger Agenda. 

    “I believe with the developments and efforts so far especially in the areas of Agricultural and Infrastructural developments, Niger state will rise again and it is our prayer and hope all projects started will be taken to their logical conclusion”, he said. 

    Yohanna urged all Christian faithful to be living examples to others, through their lives of love, mercy, compassion and self-sacrificing service.

    He then commended all the security agencies for their efforts at nipping insecurity in the bud saying, “we pray for the happy repose of the souls of gallant soldiers and officers who paid the supreme price for our dear nation. We equally pray for the families they left behind that the good Lord will comfort them and grant them the fortitude to bear the loss. 

    “We urge the federal government and all the relevant bodies saddled with the responsibility of their gratuity and other benefits promised are released as at when due in order to bring succour and relief to the affected families.”

  • Bago: Changing the face of agriculture in Niger State

    Bago: Changing the face of agriculture in Niger State

    • By Abachi Ungbo

    Sir: Governor Umar Mohammed Bago comes across as a focused and determined leader. The herculean task of pulling out all the stops in positioning Niger State as an agricultural hub remains his preoccupation. The positive energy towards bringing about the seismic change has endeared him to many. He seems so passionate about his goal which he’s pursuing with evangelistic zeal.

    Interestingly, he has attracted a big market in Lagos State through a partnership aimed at leveraging individual strength. I was bowled over by his health insurance for farmers and their families which is an eloquent expression of the premium he places on them. 

     He has deeply immersed himself in the initiative while throwing the requisite resources in driving it, into reality. Niger State has all it takes to rule the agricultural space. Governor Bago has practically thrown down the gauntlet to his contemporaries with the same agricultural potential.

    The initiative is coming at a time of grave food insecurity challenge with food prices hitting the roof. The current challenge underlines the necessity for food security to be placed in the crosshairs.

    Bago’s ambitious attempt has inspired not a few disquisitions on the general state of agriculture in the country and the great work required in positioning it as a ladder for socio-economic development. Clearly, it is not about aggregating all the requisite resources. There’s necessity for interplay of leadership, deliberate policies and commitment in driving the important sector out of the cul-de- sac.

    Nigeria is still struggling to change the default picture of agriculture. The current level of agricultural operation is inadequate to meet the need of a burgeoning population that has been projected to hit 400 million in 2025. The reality is that agriculture needs to be taken seriously. Everybody needs to be on board vis-a-vis food production.

    Read Also: No ransom paid for school children’s release – Fed Govt

    It is evident that agriculture remains the low hanging fruit in turning the fortune of the state and by implication Nigeria around. The idea of matching technology, modern equipment, irrigation and practices with broad suites of inputs alongside political will is a strong enough force to nudge the state towards the path of agricultural transformation that will bring about an uptick in production, provision of employment, improved income, reduction of poverty levels, steady food supply and improved revenue to the state. This is in addition to incentivizing the growth of agribusiness that will cash in on the plethora of opportunities. Broadly, it is an open sesame to the enhancement of food security and stable food prices and contribution to better nutritional outcome.

     Agricultural development is a precursor to economic development. It is instantiated by the structural transformation which many developed or high income countries have experienced. It was a transition from a lower to higher plane of development.

     Nigeria like other African countries failed to neatly follow the path. The share of agricultural and manufacturing sector to GDP and employment has significantly declined while the service sector continues to be in the lead.  And, it is easy to see that not a few of the jobs provided by the sector are prejudiced against a lot of people owing to being characterized by the deployment of technology and skills. The sector will require a lot of doing in developing the capacity to carry the weight of the staggering number of the unemployed. Agriculture has an indispensable role to play on this score and in the question of inclusive economic growth.

    Bago’s ambitious plan for agriculture development should be supported as it fits snugly into the current administration’s agenda for agriculture. In the final analysis, it is the responsibility of Bago and his team to ensure that the plan works because the administration will be judged by the success or failure of the ambitious agricultural transformation attempt.

     •Abachi Ungbo,

    abachi007@yahoo.com

  • Bago’s giant strides

    Bago’s giant strides

    Niger State Umar Bago, the sixth elected governor of the state, a farmer, has paid his dues at the grassroots  before getting to his current status.

    From his actions, he seems to have prepared well for the job as he is poised to make history as a governor who has taken food security and farming to the next level. He is taking advantage of the fertile and vast landmass in the state to proffer solution to challenges affecting agric business in Nigeria. He is also using the opportunity to generate revenue and empower its farming population.

    The banker-turned politician started with a stellar career in the banking sector having worked at the United Bank for Africa, First City Monument Bank (FCMB) and Afribank before heeding the call of his people to delve into politics in 2007.

    For him, his political journey is humanity-driven and serving his people and also offeing succour to them make him a fulfilled man.

    In 2010, he contested and won a seat at the House of Representatives, representing Chanchanga Federal Constituency in Minna where he served until he was sworn in as governor.

    Read Also: NAFDAC shuts down 10 substandard bakeries, eight water factories in Rivers

    As a member of the Green Chamber, Bago was cosmopolitan, refined, cerebral, socially savvy and was adjudged a great guy by his colleagues. He was a force in the chambers that spoke with confidence, and authority and knew his onions. As chairman, House Committee on Maritime Safety Education and Administration, the Political Science graduate of the Usman Danfodio University ensured he discharged his duties diligently. This placed him on the map and made many notice his giant strides.

    To make Niger regain its lost glory as one of the biggest food-producing states, he acquired over 300 tractors and other mechanised farming equipment and also allocated thousands of hectares of land for farming.

    President Bola Tinubu kicked off the pilot phase which would see prices of food crashing while enhancing food security in the country. Apart from his giant strides in agriculture, he has committed a  lot to road and infrastructural development, security, education, commerce, tourism, health, infrastructural development, and women and youth empowerment.

    He also rebuilt and remodelled the moribund Minna Airport with modern equipment and renamed it Bola Ahmed Tinubu International Airport.