Niger State Governor Umaru Bago has unveiled far-reaching plans for the state, touching on cabinet performance, infrastructure, agriculture, healthcare, and security. Speaking during an interview on TVC’s Politics on Sunday, the governor highlighted the achievements of his administration and reassured citizens of his commitment to prosperity-driven governance.
On the performance of his commissioners, Governor Bago said some have outperformed expectations while others have underperformed. He noted that his approach would not be about favoritism but about merit, stressing that cabinet reshuffles would be guided by competence.
The governor revealed that his administration has tripled the state’s income and quadrupled internally generated revenue through agricultural initiatives, reaching N10 billion monthly. Partnerships with international stakeholders, including Junde on mechanization and Brazilian experts on extension services, are driving these reforms. He further disclosed that Niger State has secured a contract to supply bananas to Russia, distributing one million seedlings to households to boost income and improve livelihoods.
On infrastructure, Governor Bago pointed to ongoing projects such as the remodelling of the state secretariat, construction of new bridges, highways, and hospitals. He announced that the 84-kilometre Minna–Bidda Road would be expanded into a four-lane superhighway, among the best in Nigeria. In addition, the state is pushing ahead with a rail line project that will connect Abuja and Niger within 30 minutes.
Healthcare delivery has also been prioritized, with the governor announcing the remodelling of one of the best hospitals in Africa, the building of a new teaching hospital, and the strengthening of primary healthcare services across the state.
Addressing the issue of borrowing, Governor Bago dismissed concerns, explaining that the state had not reached 20 percent of its borrowing threshold as regulated by the Debt Management Office. He stressed that loans were being channeled into viable infrastructure, citing the $188 million Islamic Bank facility for the Minna–Bidda Road, which would be repaid through toll gate collections.
On security, the governor described Niger’s challenges as “insignificant” and “micro” compared to the state’s vast landmass, which covers 11 percent of Nigeria’s total land area. He reiterated his advocacy for state police, commending the Federal Government and security agencies for adopting both kinetic and non-kinetic approaches.
Governor Bago concluded with a firm declaration of loyalty to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, announcing himself as the Director General of Tinubu’s 2027 campaign, with the campaign headquarters set in Niger State.