From Noah Ebije, Kaduna
Northern group, Arewa Think Tank (ATT) has commended Niger State Governor Mohammed Umar Bago on his lofty achievements in less than two years of being in office even as it congratulated him of his 51st birthday celebration.
Arewa Think Tank noted that Bago’s administration had brought winds of positive change as the entire state is undergoing metamorphosis so profound that has never been witnessed since the creation of the state in 1976.
In a statement at the weekend to pay tribute to Governor Bago on his birthday celebration, the Chief Convener of ATT, Muhammad Alhaji Yakubu, described the governor as the master architect of a new dawn who is at the helm of monumental transformation of Niger State.
“In fact, Governor Bago has indeed walked the talk. He has relinquished the typical, overused and uninspired approach of a traditional politician in favour of a visionary reformer, meticulous builder, and selfless servant of the people.
“His leadership has had a profound impact on every facet of the state. The once-abandoned roads are now being revamped to surpass their original state as bulldozers work to complete ongoing projects. Also, the promise of a modern teaching hospital, now under construction, heralds improved healthcare. Similarly, the vision of a thriving agricultural sector is becoming a reality with Niger State emerging as the nation’s food basket. These accomplishments attest to his resolute leadership.
“There has not been a dull moment since his ascension to office on May 29, 2023. As soon as he was inaugurated, Governor Bago ignited a beacon of infrastructural development, urban renewal, and a green economy initiative, setting Niger State flowing with progress.
“Within the first week, he tackled the infamous Kaduna–Suleja-Abuja highway gridlock caused by the weekly Madalla market, a quagmire of commerce and chaos that had long ensnared commuters. But with a political Will and determination, governor banned the roadside market and tamed the vehicular wilds, restoring order and safety to travelers on the highways.
“Most commendable is Governor Bago’s vision for Niger State because with N200 billion at his disposal, he is reconstructing 202 kilometers of township roads into Minna city’s landscape, infusing it with new life.
“Furthermore, he went ahead into the construction of 1,400 kilometers of roads across the state, promising a future where Kontagora and Bida towns are but a smooth drive away.
“We recall with praises how Bago handled the N600 million debt to the Abuja Electricity Distribution Company (AEDC), clearing the backlog and illuminating the path for government operations. This became necessary because before now some government organisations were struggling under the burden of electricity bills.
“The transformation of the Shiroro Hotel Minna into the Ibrahim Badamasi University Teaching Hospital is yet another feather in the cap of Governor Bago’s administration. This change from a hospitality establishment to a bastion of health education symbolizes the progressive spirit that has been infused into the heart of Niger State,” ATT said.