Idris commends Bago’s development drive, hails FG’s ₦1.5tn road project in Niger state

The Minister of Information and National Orientation and Chairman of the Niger State Development Forum (NSDF), Mohammed Idris, has commended Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago for his administration’s investments in agriculture, infrastructure and economic development, while describing the federal government’s approximately N1.5 trillion Lambata–Bida–Mokwa–Makera–Kontagora highway project as a major boost to the state’s development.

According to a statement by special assistant on media to the minister Rabiu Ibrahim, Idris spoke on Friday in Abuja when he led members of the NSDF on a courtesy visit to the Niger State Governor, praising the growing collaboration between the federal and state governments in advancing critical infrastructure and economic opportunities.

The minister described Niger state as strategically important to Nigeria’s development, citing its vast agricultural potential, strategic location and contribution to national electricity supply through the Kainji, Jebba and Shiroro hydroelectric installations.

He commended Bago’s emphasis on mechanised farming, commercial agriculture and agro-industrial development.

“Your administration’s investments in agriculture, infrastructure, urban renewal and economic development are laying important foundations for the transformation of our state,” Idris said.

The minister particularly applauded President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for the approximately ₦1.5 trillion reconstruction and dualisation of the Lambata–Bida–Mokwa–Makera–Kontagora federal highway, with the groundbreaking scheduled for October 13, 2026, in Bida.

“This is a landmark intervention in one of Nigeria’s most strategic agricultural and commercial corridors. The highway will improve access to farming communities, connect markets and industrial centres, and facilitate the movement of agricultural produce, goods and people,” he said.

Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago thanked President Tinubu for his support for Niger State, noting that the state had benefited from federal infrastructure projects, development financing and appointments to federal institutions.

“On behalf of the Government and people of Niger State, I want to thank President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his love and support for our state. We have enjoyed significant support from the Federal Government, especially in infrastructure. The 1.5 trillion highway project will ease the movement of goods and people, support agricultural prosperity and help businesses thrive,” Bago said.

The minister further expressed condolences to the government and people of Niger state, especially families and communities affected by recent tragedies and security challenges.

He also acknowledged the efforts of the state government, the Federal Government, and security agencies in protecting lives and property.