“When a man’s ways pleases the Lord, He makes even his enemies to be at peace with him.” Proverbs 16:7
This portion of the Bible has indeed become the reality of the Niger state governor, Farmer Mohammed Umaru Bago, whose strongest political opponent and closest contender in the March 18 2023 gubernatorial elections, Alhaji Isah Liman Kanigi, recently drummed support for him for a second term.
The transformative achievements of Bago have silenced critics, swayed political opponents, and garnered widespread admiration across the state and beyond. Among the most compelling endorsements is that of Kantigi and the manner he declared his support for the governor and his developmental strides.
Kantigi recently declared his unequivocal support for the governor’s re-election, stating that “there is no law that says I cannot endorse someone in a different political party, it is a fundamental right that I am stating my mind.”
Kantigi advised anyone thinking of contesting against Bago in 2027 to set that idea aside and allow him to complete the transformative work he has started in the state.
Undoubtedly, in Nigerian politics, where political opponents often continue to criticise and bash a government left, right, and center regardless of its performance this statement, coming from someone who once vied for the same position, is a rare moment in Nigerian politics and proof of the governor’s extraordinary performance in Niger state.
Kantigi, in a viral telephone interview, said, “If someone in less than two years has scored 70 per cent, even out of the things that I wanted to achieve for Niger state, I think the person has passed and we should allow the person to complete his job. If people are saying that he gave me anything, he didn’t give me anything, go and ask him. He didn’t give me anything, but it’s just my opinion that we should give him a chance to complete what he has started.
“My advice would be to everybody from Zone A, don’t waste your time or waste your money. This is the man we are going to support in 2027. We’re going to support him to complete the work that he has started. I have never seen a governor that has achieved this much even in eight years in Niger state, but this is it in less than two years. You go to areas, you see that roads are being constructed, water supply, education, the health sector is being revamped and turned around.”
Governor Bago has proven himself to be a leader with an unmatched vision for Niger State. His administration has undertaken an ambitious agenda of transformation, touching every facet of life in the state. From the outset of his tenure, he has worked tirelessly to rebuild the state’s infrastructure, revitalise critical sectors, and improve the overall quality of life for the people of Niger.
The on-going road construction in the state has become a hallmark of progress as it has indeed beaten that of all previous administrations put together with roads being constructed in all 25 local governments, new roads being built and existing ones rehabilitated, linking communities, facilitating trade, and driving economic growth. The governor’s focus on township roads in major cities is giving urban areas a modern facelift, ensuring accessibility and improving the state’s economic prospects.
Bago’s leadership style can best be described as hands-on as he embarks with regular visits to project sites to inspect progress, hold contractors accountable, and ensure value for money.
According to him, “I cannot allow taxpayers money to be left in the hands of contractors without accountability. Nigerlites entrusted me with their mandate, and I am committed to doing everything within my power to fulfill the promises I made to them.”
This proactive approach has fostered a culture of transparency and trust, reassuring Nigerlites that their governor is committed to delivering on his promises. The administration’s investment in infrastructure is not merely about roads; it is about laying the foundation for sustained economic activities and development.
In education, Governor Bago’s strides are nothing short of revolutionary. His administration has restored accreditation to previously neglected universities and colleges, ensuring that students can now study in institutions that meet national and international standards.
More universities have been established with approvals from the National University Commission. This reflects the governor’s forward-thinking vision, positioning Niger as a hub for education and intellectual development. Furthermore, his focus on renovating schools, providing essential learning materials, and relocating schools from isolated areas for the safety of students and teachers demonstrates his commitment to nurturing the next generation and preparing them for a brighter future while also putting their safety into consideration.
The health sector has also witnessed unprecedented growth as over 25 Primary Health care Centre (PHCs) across the state and the Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida Teaching Hospital is being constructed which is aimed at saving lives, preventing diseases, and improving the overall well-being of the populace.
The agricultural sector which has become the new oil for the state is the cornerstone of Governor Bago’s administration. Recognising Niger State’s potential as an agricultural powerhouse with the bragging rights of having the largest landmass and arable land, Bago has made significant investments to support local farmers. By providing farm inputs, modern equipment, and access to funding, the administration is not only boosting food production but also creating jobs and addressing food security on a national scale. The state is gradually positioning itself as a major contributor to Nigeria’s food basket, with agricultural produce being transported to markets across the country.
Another area where the governor has excelled is in the welfare of civil servants and retirees. Bago did not just approve the payment of N80, 000 minimum wage, implementation commenced immediately while some states are still grappling with it.
Salaries are also paid promptly, ensuring that civil servants can meet their financial obligations in this harsh economy without delay. Beyond this, Bago’s administration has tackled a long-standing issue of unpaid gratuities, which had been a burden on retirees in the state for over nine years. Over N6B has been paid to a total number of beneficiaries 2613 for both state and local governments while biometrics for those not paid will continue in January.
The governor’s achievements extend to water supply, a critical issue in many parts of the state. Through the revitalisation of the Niger State Water Board and ongoing reticulation projects, his administration is working to ensure that clean water is accessible to all. The aim is to eliminate the reliance on water vendors in major cities, providing a sustainable solution to the water crisis. This initiative has significantly improved public health and the quality of life for residents.
Governor Bago’s vision for Niger state is comprehensive, encompassing every sector and addressing long-standing challenges with innovative solutions. His efforts have attracted investors to the state, opening up new opportunities for economic growth and development. The Niger State Food Programme is another testament to his forward-thinking leadership, as it seeks to harness the state’s agricultural potential to feed the nation and boost local economies.
It is no surprise, therefore, that even his political opponents are acknowledging his achievements. The transformation witnessed under Governor Bago’s administration is unparalleled in the history of the state. From infrastructure to education, health care, agriculture, and civil service welfare, his leadership has brought about a new era of hope and progress. The call for continuity is indeed deserving and recognition of the need to allow a visionary leader to complete the work he has started.
Indeed just as stated in an African adage, when the drum beats loud enough even the deaf will begin to dance.
…Wakaso is the special adviser to the Niger state governor on print media