₦airaland Forum

NIGER STATE GOVERNOR AND CHAIRMAN NORTH CENTRAL GOVERNOR'S FORUM ABUBAKAR SANI BELLO INAUGURATES THIRTY-EIGHT MASS TRANSIT BUSES WORTH OVER ONE BILLION NAIRA...
......... TWENTY-SIX MORE TO ARRIVE THE STATE SOON

Governor Abubakar Sani Bello has launched thirty-eight buses worth one point five, two billion nairas to boost the fleet of the State's transport authority.

Speaking at the occasion, the Governor appealed to the Federal Government to complete the Baro Port project in the interest of national development.

The state transport authority known to be one of the best government-owned transport agency, affordable and reliable, had lost its pride due to bad management and lackadaisical attitude of the staff.

This informed the present administration's decision to revamp the public transportation for effective and efficient service delivery.

Governor Abubakar Sani Bello said the initiative is to further boost the capacity of the authority, and charged the management to ensure accountability as the fund used to acquire the facility is a loan and not grant.

"The easy movement of people and goods is a necessity that we shall continue to pursue to stimulate economic growth, while the government will further impose a phase on unsafe modes of transportation in our major towns to be replaced with taxis and minibuses," he said

Governor Sani Bello said his administration will continue to seek collaboration with committed partners especially the Federal Government so as to expand other means of transportation within and outside the state.

He then commended the development partners for making the project a reality, while urging the ministry of transport to make good use of the investment and adhere to the (MoU).

Other speakers including the commissioner for Transport, Hajiya Ramatu Mohammed Yar'adua, who expressed optimism that the newly purchased buses will revamp the sector, said the thirty-eight buses supplied comprise of 24units of 16seater buses, Nine units of 30 seater buses, four units of 55 seater buses and one utility Hyundai, while the rest 24 will be delivered in no distant time.

While describing the purchase of the new buses as a rebirth of NSTA, the ministry has evolved strategies towards improving the services of the sector to a global standard.

Mary Noel-Berje
Chief Press Secretary to the Governor of Niger state.

NIGER STATE GOVERNMENT PLACES TOTAL BAN ON STREET BEGGING

Niger State Government has placed a total ban on street begging in the state with immediate effect from Wednesday, 4th March, 2020.

Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Alh. Muhammad Sani Idris disclosed this on Thursday during a post-exco briefing with journalists at the government house Minna.

He said the ban became necessary in view of the security challenges in the state.

He explained that the State Government will work in synergy with other states in Northern Nigeria to have a workable structure that would stand the test of time, having gotten the political will from Governor Abubakar Bello.

The Commissioner said the state government would also work with relevant agencies to ensure violators of the law are prosecuted, pointing out that adult violators will be sanctioned while the parents of a child that violates the law will be traced and prosecuted irrespective of their state of residence.

He however maintained that the ban is not targeted at stopping the almajiri system of education, but that it is driven by security imperatives.

He said henceforth, all almajiri schools must be licensed to operate in the state.

Mary Noel-Berje
Chief Press Secretary to
Niger state Governor

GOVERNOR ABUBAKAR SANI BELLO LEADS DELEGATION ON TOUR OF WASTE FACILITIES IN GHANA

Niger State Governor Abubakar Sani Bello led a delegation to Ghana to have a first hand knowledge of how a private waste Management recycling facility of 'JOSPONG" group of companies in Accra, Ghana is effectively turning waste into productive materials for onward use.

The recycling facilities when put in place will take care of
Waste sorting and organic waste composting plant,
Plastic recycling & waste bins manufacturing plant,Tricycle assembly plant, and
State-of-the-art liquid waste processing plant

These Plants are to be installed in phases & to be completed between 2020 and December 2021.

The first Plant will however be completed in September 2020.

Establishment of the waste management infrastructure will not only add value to waste materials; create safe environment for the well-being of the people as well as reduce cost of curative healthcare, it will also provide employment opportunities for teeming unemployed Youths which will go a long way in creating wealth and reducing poverty.

Conducting the Governor round six out of the over 50 different companies of the Jospang groups, the Managing Director Sewage Systems Ghana Ltd, Haidar Said, and the Accra Composite and Recycling Plant Managing Director Michael Padi Tuwor , explained the workings of the company in managing waste and how the activity has drastically made Ghana a leading country in Africa especially in terms of clean environment and green energy.

Mayor of Accra Mohammed Adjie Sowah was also on hand to share successes recorded on environmental cleanliness with the Governor whom he assured of readiness to support Niger state

Mary Noel-Berje
Chief Press Secretary to the Governor of Niger state.

yarimo:
apart from telling BUHARI I will also tell mr SHEKAU

LOCALES TO JOIN SECURITY AGENCIES IN A RENEWED STRATEGY TO FIGHT ARMED BANDITRY, KIDNAPPING AND CATTLE RUSTLING

Niger state Governor and chairman North Central Governor's Forum, Abubakar Sani Bello says local militia, community vigilante groups and local hunters must collaborate with security agencies, in a renewed strategy, to engage and completely chase away kidnappers, cattle rustlers and armed bandits in the country.

The Governor stated this in Zuru, Kebbi State where he was special guest of honour at the Maiden Civic Reception organised by the Zuru Patriotic Forum in honour of Senator Bala Ibn Na'Allah; Chief Justice of Nigeria, Hon. Justice Abubakar Malami (SAN) and Governor Abubakar Atiku Bagudu of Kebbi State.

Governor Sani Bello maintained that a radical approach had become necessary in order not to allow irresponsible miscreants continue to unleash terror on our people and subject our communities to their whims and caprices.

He disclosed that, the Governors of the most affected states of Kebbi, Zamfara, Kaduna and Niger are in talks to perfect the new strategy in order to address the situation that has hindered development and deprived the people of their means of livelihood.

"We must not allow them to send us out of our respective homes. We have to defend our territories, it has started in Niger and we have started recording success in that direction", the Governor stated.

Governor Sani Bello called on Traditional Rulers and title holders to organise meetings regularly in their communities to discuss security situation and check the influx of unknown persons into their domains.

In his remarks, one of the awardees, who spoke on behalf of others, Senator Bala Ibn Na'Allah thanked the organisers of the event for recognising their immense contributions to the country and service to humanity in general and assure that they would not relent.

Highlights of the event were the presentation of Awards to the Senator, Attorney General of the federation and
Governor of Kebbi state.

Mary Noel-Berje
Chief Press Secretary to
Niger State Governor.

yarimo:
mteeeww he should focus more on security issues in the state

LOCALES TO JOIN SECURITY AGENCIES IN A RENEWED STRATEGY TO FIGHT ARMED BANDITRY, KIDNAPPING AND CATTLE RUSTLING

Niger state Governor and chairman North Central Governor's Forum, Abubakar Sani Bello says local militia, community vigilante groups and local hunters must collaborate with security agencies, in a renewed strategy, to engage and completely chase away kidnappers, cattle rustlers and armed bandits in the country.

The Governor stated this in Zuru, Kebbi State where he was special guest of honour at the Maiden Civic Reception organised by the Zuru Patriotic Forum in honour of Senator Bala Ibn Na'Allah; Chief Justice of Nigeria, Hon. Justice Abubakar Malami (SAN) and Governor Abubakar Atiku Bagudu of Kebbi State.

Governor Sani Bello maintained that a radical approach had become necessary in order not to allow irresponsible miscreants continue to unleash terror on our people and subject our communities to their whims and caprices.

He disclosed that, the Governors of the most affected states of Kebbi, Zamfara, Kaduna and Niger are in talks to perfect the new strategy in order to address the situation that has hindered development and deprived the people of their means of livelihood.

"We must not allow them to send us out of our respective homes. We have to defend our territories, it has started in Niger and we have started recording success in that direction", the Governor stated.

Governor Sani Bello called on Traditional Rulers and title holders to organise meetings regularly in their communities to discuss security situation and check the influx of unknown persons into their domains.

In his remarks, one of the awardees, who spoke on behalf of others, Senator Bala Ibn Na'Allah thanked the organisers of the event for recognising their immense contributions to the country and service to humanity in general and assure that they would not relent.

Highlights of the event were the presentation of Awards to the Senator, Attorney General of the federation and
Governor of Kebbi state.

Mary Noel-Berje
Chief Press Secretary to
Niger State Governor.

LOCALES TO JOIN SECURITY AGENCIES IN A RENEWED STRATEGY TO FIGHT ARMED BANDITRY, KIDNAPPING AND CATTLE RUSTLING

Niger state Governor and chairman North Central Governor's Forum, Abubakar Sani Bello says local militia, community vigilante groups and local hunters must collaborate with security agencies, in a renewed strategy, to engage and completely chase away kidnappers, cattle rustlers and armed bandits in the country.

The Governor stated this in Zuru, Kebbi State where he was special guest of honour at the Maiden Civic Reception organised by the Zuru Patriotic Forum in honour of Senator Bala Ibn Na'Allah; Chief Justice of Nigeria, Hon. Justice Abubakar Malami (SAN) and Governor Abubakar Atiku Bagudu of Kebbi State.

Governor Sani Bello maintained that a radical approach had become necessary in order not to allow irresponsible miscreants continue to unleash terror on our people and subject our communities to their whims and caprices.

He disclosed that, the Governors of the most affected states of Kebbi, Zamfara, Kaduna and Niger are in talks to perfect the new strategy in order to address the situation that has hindered development and deprived the people of their means of livelihood.

"We must not allow them to send us out of our respective homes. We have to defend our territories, it has started in Niger and we have started recording success in that direction", the Governor stated.

Governor Sani Bello called on Traditional Rulers and title holders to organise meetings regularly in their communities to discuss security situation and check the influx of unknown persons into their domains.

In his remarks, one of the awardees, who spoke on behalf of others, Senator Bala Ibn Na'Allah thanked the organisers of the event for recognising their immense contributions to the country and service to humanity in general and assure that they would not relent.

Highlights of the event were the presentation of Awards to the Senator, Attorney General of the federation and
Governor of Kebbi state.

Mary Noel-Berje
Chief Press Secretary to
Niger State Governor.

THE EMIR OF ZURU COMMENDS GOVERNOR ABUBAKAR SANI BELLO ON STRATEGIES EVOLVED TO ADDRESS SECURITY CHALLENGES

The Emir of Zuru, Major General Muhammad Sani Sami, Sami Gomo the 2nd has commended Governor Abubakar Sani Bello for the way and manner he has been handling security issues in Niger state.

The Emir, gave the commendation when he received Governor Abubakar Sani Bello in company of Senator representing kebbi South Senatorial District,
Bala Ibn Na'allah at his Palace in Zuru.

He said he has followed closely the activities of the Governor and observed he is his doing well.

The Emir while expressing concern over the security situation in Niger State and Nigeria as a whole, called for more concerted efforts to bring the evil to an end noting that the situation has brought untold hardship to the Nigerian people especially farmers.

Governor Abubakar Sani Bello who was in Zuru as a Special Guest of honour at a reception organised for distinguished sons of Kebbi said the Palace was his first port of call to receive royal blessings.

He thanked the Emir whom he described as his Father and asked for continuous prayers to be able to succeed, especially in the area of handling the security challenges confronting the State.

The Governor commended Senator Na'Allah for his achievements so far, describing him as a true representative of his people.

Senator, representing Kebbi South comprising Zuru/ Yauri Emirates, Bala Na'Allah described the Emir as a father to all having been used by God to raise countless children that are strategically positioned.

He prayed God to bless the Emir and the Emirate immensely.

Mary Noel-Berje
Chief Press Secretary to the Governor of Niger state.

GOVERNOR ABUBAKAR SANI BELLO RE-INTRODUCES MONTHLY ENVIRONMENTAL SANITATION

Niger State Governor Alh. Abubakar Sani Bello has flagged-off the re-introduction of the monthly environmental sanitation in the state.

The flag-off exercise which took place in Kpakungu area of Minna the state capital, Saturday, was witnessed by Members of the Legislature, Council members and Local Government Council Chairmen..

Speaking at the ceremony, Governor Sani Bello stated that the reintroduction of the monthly sanitation in the state is apt as it is coming at the time the country is faced with challenges of the outbreak of diseases.

"The resumption of the monthly sanitation is very timely. As a matter of fact, it has become a necessity and a must that we should resume for our own safety and benefit."

The governor emphasised that a clean environment will reduce the risk and outbreak of diseases in the State and enjoined the people to take the exercise seriously, adding that Niger State has always been known for cleanliness.

"If our environment is clean it will reduce a lot of health challenges especially on the spread of a disease ravaging globe. It will cost us less to keep a clean environment". He added.

He also called on those who engage in tree felling to desist from such act, emphasizing that it has started leading to environmental catastrophe as rivers no longer flow all through the season.

Earlier, Commissioner for Environment, Barr. Tanko Zakari said the aim of reintroducing the environmental sanitation in the State is to reduce pressure on the healthcare centres in the State as a lot of health challenges handled by the healthcare centres are attributed to dirty environment.

He then solicited the support of the people as well as that of the local government Council Chairmen to ensure that the desired objective is achieved.

Also speaking, Health Commissioner Dr. Muhammad Makusidi and his Water Resources, Counterpart, Alh. Yusuf Suleiman pledged their Ministries support to ensure a healthy environment and supply of potable water.

Speaking on behalf of the local government Chairmen, The ALGON Chairman, Niger State, and the Chairman, Chanchaga Local Government, Ibrahim Abubakar pledged to ensure that they contribute their quota to ensure that the desired goal is achieved and commended Governor Abubakar Sani Bello had for reintroducing the exercise.

He promised that they will see to the enforcement of the exercise.

The monthly environmental sanitation is to be observed every last Saturday of the month between 7 and 10 O'Clock in the morning.

Mary Noel-Berje
Chief Press Secretary to the Governor of Niger

NIGER STATE GOVERNOR ABUBAKAR SANI BELLO AND HIS AKWA IBOM COUNTERPART CONVERGE ON MINNA TO COMMISERATE WITH THE COMMISSIONER FOR YOUTH AND SPORTS HONOURABLE EMMANUEL UMAR AT THE BURIAL OF HIS LATE MUM.

Governor Sani Bello described the event as a celebration of life.
He enjoyed everyone to live a life that pleased God and humanity.
He also pray that God grants the deceased and the family the fortitude to bear the loss

NIGER STATE GOVERNOR PLEDGES IMMEDIATE COMPLETION OF ZUNGERU TOWNSHIP ROADS REHABILITATION.


Zungeru is a town that cannot be overlooked when the story of colonial rule in the North is told.

Zungeru is particularly important because it was there that the colonial government proclaimed the amalgamation of the Northern and southern protectorate in 1914 .

However the relics and the Infrastructural facilities which marked Zungeru as the seat of colonial government in Nigeria have been left to rot.

Beyond amalgamation, Zungeru which served as a center of unity as some notable Nigerians like late Dr. Nnamdi Azikiwe and late Chukwuemeka Odumegu Ojukwu as well as former Senate president, David Alechenu Bonaventure Mark had their first homes in Zungeru which was a bustling railway town .

The township roads were laden by potholes which slow down traffic leading to unnecessary gridlock in the town.

Governor Abubakar Sani Bello, a trained economist and an entrepreneur understands why priority should be accorded to Zungeru township roads rehabilitation.

Governor Abubakar Sani Bello in an exclusive interview explained that his administration embarked on the reconstruction of Zungeru township roads to make living conditions better and worthwhile for the residents of the town.

Governor Abubakar Sani Bello said appreciable progress has been recorded in the rehabilitation of the township roads and bypass.

He gave assurance that the project which is part on going road rehabilitation projects across the three Senatorial Districts in the State is expected to be completed in no distant future.

The Governor further explained that the township road rehabilitation project when completed will ease movement of goods and services not only in Zungeru but its adjourning communities and consequently revive the glory of the historic town .

The people of the forgotten Capital of Northern Nigeria protectorate are now breathing a sigh of relief and they are celebrating and appreciating the State government efforts considering the importance of the road Network and its connectivity.

Mary Noel-Berje
Chief Press Secretary
Niger state Governor

NIGER STATE GOVERNMENT PARTNERS BRAZILIAN GOVERNMENT ON ANIMAL HUSBANDRY

Brazil a leading country in livestock management has pledged her readiness to improving the animal husbandry subsector in Niger State.

The Ambassador of Brazil, Mr. Ricardo Guerra de Araujo disclosed this in Abuja when he received in audience Governor Abubakar Sani Bello at the Brazillian Embassy, Wednesday.

Mr. Araujo who noted that Brazil and Nigeria have a high bilateral understanding on joint mechanized agricultural, described the presentation by the Niger State team as promising.

He assured the State Government of every technical support required, adding that it was high time the State explored the opportunity to transform the subsector.


Governor Abubakar Sani Bello had hinted the Ambassador the aim of their visit which was to seek expert support in improving the livestock subsector of the State's Agriculture sector.

He assured his host of an enabling environment for the business to thrive as others have keyed into supporting the grazing reserve establishment in the State.

It is noteworthy that Niger State government has about 12 grazing reserves but having only a few gazetted.

While moves are underway to gazette the remaining ones,
development of the Bobi Grazing Reserve has commenced and improved foliage from Brazil have been imported, with some foreign companies already participating.

The Central Bank of Nigeria, CBN is a major Partner in the development of the Bobi Grazing Reserve.

Mary Noel-Berje
Chief Press Secretary
Niger State Governor

GOVERNOR ABUBAKAR SANI BELLO ATTENDS FUNERAL PRAYER OF LATE HAJIYA AISHIATU

Governor Abubakar Sani Bello of Niger State has on Tuesday attended the funeral prayer of late Hajiya Ashiatu Abdullahi at the Minna Central Mosque.

Governor Sani Bello joined by other top government functionaries and sympathizers prayed to Allah to grant the deceased Aljannah Firdaus and the family the fortitude to bear the irreparable loss.

Late Aishatu died Tuesday after a brief illness at a very old age leaving behind seven children among them is Alh. Yahuza Abdullahi (Ya Pasi) a renowned politician and an All Progressives Congress(APC) stalwart in the state.

Mary Noel-Berje
Chief Press Secretary

TACKLING INSECURITY HEADLONG IN NIGER STATE

Governor Abubakar Sani Bello has promised to strengthen ties with the Nigerian Air Force to further tackle banditry, kidnapping and cattle rustling in Niger State.

Governor Sani Bello who stated this while playing host to the Air Chief in Minna, says the collaboration will provide succour to the people of the State who in the past few months have suffered untold hardship.

The Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Sadique Abubakar is in the State to see areas that need to be improved on with a view to mapping out strategies to tackle the security challenges bedeviling the State.

Governor Abubakar Sani Bello's effort also led him to seeing the Chief of Army Staff, Lt.General Tukur Yusuf Buratai

INSECURITY: GOVERNOR ABUBAKAR SANI BELLO TASKS RELIGIOUS BODIES ON DIVINE INTERVENTION

Christian faithful in Minna and the 25 local government areas of Niger State, Sunday converged on their worship centers to offer special prayer seeking God’s intervention in security challenges in the state.

The special inter- denominational prayer tagged "THE SAFETY OF NIGER STATE" was organized as a result of the reckless killings, maiming, kidnapping and wanton destruction of property in the state that has continued unabated.

Addressing congregants, Commissioner for Mineral Resources, Mr Daniel Sunday Kolo disclosed that the state government has expended huge resources and man power fighting insecurity in the state, yet the carnage has continued, hence, the Governor's call for all to turn to God for divine intervention.

Mr Kolo enjoined all and sundry not to relent in prayers even as government is not resting on its oars to fight the bandits headlong.

Chairman, Niger State Chapter of the Christian Association of Nigeria, Reverend Mathias Echioda commended the honest and bold efforts of Governor Sani Bello for calling on the people to turn to God for divine intervention, pointing out that prayer is potent and through it, God can use anyone to restore total peace to the state and country at large.

The clergyman called for strengthening of the vigilante group and for the people to join forces together to fight the insurgents while being courageous to also share information with others on any suspicious movement.

The prayer session was rounded up at the CAN secretariat in Minna, where church leaders took turns to pray fervently for God's intervention in the calamity that has befallen some local governments areas in the state and the country as a whole.

The prayer session had the clergy, CAN Executives and government functionaries in attendance.

Similar prayer sessions were held across the state by Muslim ummah last Friday.

Mary Noel-Berje
Chief Press Secretary to the Governor

GOVERNOR SANI BELLO VISITS IDPs CAMP IN KAGARA

****VOWS TO SECURE COMMUNITIES AFFLICTED BY BANDITRY, KIDNAPPING AND CATTLE RUSTLING IN THE STATE

Niger state government says it is taking proactive measure towards ensuring that the Internally Displaced Persons(IDPs), on the run as a result of armed banditry attacks return to their homes.

Governor Abubakar Sani Bello stated this when he visited the IDPs Camp in Kagara, headquarter of Rafi Local Government Area.

Governor Sani Bello say, government will employ all avenues within its reach to get rid of the armed bandits and other criminal elements that are causing pain, havoc and hardship to the people, adding that discussion has reached an advanced stage with the Nigerian Army for additional soldiers to be posted to the state, so as to beef up security in Rafi and Shiroro Local Governments Areas,mostly affected by the armed banditry activities.

While noting that the IDPs needed to go back to their homes and return to their farms, the Governor explained that efforts were being intensified towards eliminating the bandits, saying that the IDPs camp too have affected teaching and learning due to the fact that they were occupying a public school.

He however said, to achieve success in doing away with the bandits and other criminal elements, the overall support of the people is needed and that attitudinal change and good family values must be restored

According to him, without the full support and cooperation from the people, there was nothing security personnel could do, advising the people to be on the watch out for the bandits' informants amongst them as most attacks looked well coordinated.

Governor Sani Bello had earlier visited Tungan Makeri community where recent bandits attack took place and he was also at the Kagara General Hospital to sympathize with the victims of the attack.

Speaking at the Kagara IDP's camp, Head of hospital services, Kagara General hospital, Dr Salisu Mohammed said they receive displaced persons virtually on a daily basis at the camp and that majority of them were from Shiroro local government area.

Some of the IDPs who spoke in Hausa language said all they needed was for the government to deploy more security personnel to the area to tackle the bandits to enable them go back to their villages and live their normal lives without been constantly intimidated, harassed, maimed and killed.

Mary and
Chief Press Secretary to the Governor

GOVERNOR ABUBAKAR SANI BELLO FLAGS OFF CONSTRUCTION OF 86KM MINNA-BIDA ROAD

Motorists plying Minna -Bida road can now heave a sigh of relief as the Niger State Government and Dantata & Sawoe, mobilise to site to commence work on the long awaited project .

The 86 km minna - Kataeregi - Bida road reconstruction is set to begin with the official take off of the project.

Niger state Governor Abubakar Sani Bello has flagged off the reconstruction project as one that will improve the economic prosperity and ease the hardship of the of the people of area and the state at large.

Represented by the commissioner for works Engineer Ibrahim Mohammed Panti, Governor Abubakar Sani Bello reiterated the commitment of his administration in addressing infrastructural challenges of the state.

Executive Director, Dangote and Sawoe Nigeria limited Nasir Abdulkadir Dantata pledged to complete the construction on schedule in accordance with the project specifications.
.
The contract for the 86 km minna, Kataeregi, bida road one of the busiest trunk b roads in Niger state was awarded for reconstruction at the cost of about 23 billion naira to be completed in 18 months.

Mary Noel-Berje
Chief Press Secretary

NGSG TO RECEIVE 1.3 BILLION NAIRA FROM THE BILL & MELINDA GATES FOUNDATION TOWARDS EFFECTIVE HEALTHCARE DELIVERY

****REINTRODUCES MONTHLY SANITATION EXERCISE

Niger State Government is to receive about N1.3Billion from the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation for the transformation of its healthcare system in the state.

Commissioner for Health, Dr Muhammad Makunsidi made this known while briefing journalists after the weekly state executive council meeting presided over by the State Governor, Abubakar Sani Bello at the Government House Minna.

Dr Makunsidi said the fund is the sequel to the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) entered into in 2017, between the state government and the foundation towards effective, qualitative and affordable Primary Healthcare delivery system in the state.

The Commissioner stated that, apart from the funding, the foundation is also willing to provide technical assistance to the state government in a collaborative effort to reduce maternal and infant mortality across the state.

He disclosed that, since the commencement of the implementation of the MoU, the state's healthcare indices have changed as it is now rated 1st among the North Central states and 3rd in the country in terms of comparative healthcare delivery.

Dr Makunsidi announced that the MoU with Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation would last for four years adding that the state government has already contributed all its counterpart funds.

Meanwhile, the Commissioner for Environment, Barrister Mohammed Zakari has announced the reintroduction of a monthly environmental sanitation exercise in the state.


The sanitation exercise, which is expected to be flagged-off on Saturday, February 29th, will be conducted between the hours of 7 am and 10 am.

Barrister Zakari disclosed that about 10,000 Tricycles and 1,000 Trucks would be deployed regularly during the exercise while environmental sanitation officers would be on hand to enforce compliance.

The Commissioner revealed that the state government has approved the partnership with Zoom Lion, a Ghanaian company that would be engaged in the recycling of waste products, in a deliberate attempt to address the indiscriminate

NGSG /DANTATA & SAWOE

Motorists plying Minna -Bida road can now heave a sigh of relief as the Niger State Government and Dantata & Sawoe, concludes all arrangements to mobilise to site to commence work on the long awaited project .

The site is already witnessing presence of heavy duty equipment for the reconstruction of the 86 km road.....

NGSG /DANTATA & SAWOE

Motorists plying Minna -Bida road can now heave a sigh of relief as the Niger State Government and Dantata & Sawoe, concludes all arrangements to mobilise to site to commence work on the long awaited project .

The site is already witnessing presence of heavy duty equipment for the reconstruction of the 86 km road.....

GOVERNOR ABUBAKAR SANI BELLO INAUGURATES A FIFTEEN MAN COMMITTEE: TO REFORM THE STATE CIVIL SERVICE

Fifteen (15) Man Rationalization of Niger State Civil Service Commission has been inaugurated to reform and restructure the Civil Service Commission for effective service delivery.

Governor Abubakar Sani Bello who inaugurated the committee reiterated that his administration has decided to reposition the State Civil Service to enable it to play it critical roles of implementing government policies and programmes.

The term of reference for the committee are; to review the current structure of Civil Service with the view to enhancing institutional synergy and productivity, to highlight challenges that are confronting the Civil Service especially the effective deployment of Human Resources for effective service delivery.

Also, to make viable recommendations for the repositioning of the Civil Service and to highlight areas that need the government’s attention for the betterment and effective service delivery.

The Governor who noted with dismay that there is no proper succession plan in the Civil Service said it is ridiculous and should not be.

He said the committee members who were carefully selected to transform the Civil Service into a proactive and result oriented one, charged them to work diligently.

The committee which is to be chaired by Engineer Abdulkadir Mohammed Ndastu and Dr Yakubu Bello Permanent Secretary, establishment, the office of the Head of Service as the Secretary of the committee.

The committee is expected to submit its report in three (3) months.

Responding on behalf of the committee members, Chairman of the committee, Engineer Abdulkadir Mohammed Ndastu assured the Governor that the committee will do its utmost best to ensure that the confidence on them will not be misplaced and called for the support and cooperation of all MDA’s and Labour Union.

GOVERNOR ABUBAKAR SANI BELLO SYMPATHISES WTH PEOPLE OF KUTIGI

Niger State Governor, Alh Abubakar Sani Bello has sympathized with the people of Kutigi in Lavun local government Area, over the accident that led to an explosion that razed down several houses and affected 34 persons.

Governor Sani Bello in a press statement signed by his Chief Press Secretary, Mary Noel Berje, expressed sadness over the loss of four lives and property as a result of the inferno and prayed for the quick recovery of those injured and were treatment at the General Hospital Kutigi as well as those in critical condition and referred to Federal Medical Centre (FMC) Bida.

The statement expressed government's readiness to assess the damage caused by the inferno with a view to cushioning the effect on those affected.

He appreciated the efforts of those who rose to the challenge by assisting the victims and ensuring that they got quick medical attention.

The Governor how ever frowned at the manner at which drivers of tankers and Articulated vehicles drive even in residential areas, saying that some of these accidents are avoidable.

He enjoined the people of kutigi community to remain calm and law abiding as the government is doing everything possible to investigate the root cause of the accident.

He prayed for the repose of the souls of four persons that lost their lives as well as for the families to bear the irreparable loss.


Mary Noel-Berje
Chief Press Secretary to the Governor of Niger state.

NIGER STATE GOVERNOR, ABUBAKAR SANI BELLO CONTINUES CONSTRUCTION OF ROADS IN THE STATE.

In line with Niger state government's drive to improving infrastructure and make available basic social amenities, road construction is currently ongoing along Gidan Biri road along IBB specialist hospital axis.

VICE PRESIDENT OSINBAJO, GOVERNORS SANI BELLO, FAYEMI, OTHERS IN ATTENDANCE AS ELDER GABRIEL NKANANG IS LAID TO REST

Dignitaries from all walks of life including the Vice President, Prof. Yemi Osinbajo, former Nigerian Presidents, serving and past Senate Presidents, serving and past Governors, law makers, traditional rulers, Business Moguls and Technocrats converged on Awa-iman in Onna Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State to pay their last respect to the late Elder Gabriel Emmanuel Nkanang, father to the Akwa Ibom State Governor who is buried today.

The event which can best be described as a convergence of prominent Nigerians in Akwa Ibom had speakers eulogising the late Nkanang, as an honest, sincere, humble and focused leader who, in his life time, made significant marks in different fields of endeavor.

In his remarks, Vice President Yemi Osinbajo commended the goodly virtues Elder Nkanang displayed as a Teacher and Father who dedicated his life to building and impacting the Community, State and Nation positively.

Prof Yemi Osinbajo equally described the deceased as a disciplinarian with humble abilities which he passed on to his children including the present of Governor Akwa ibom State, Emmanuel Udom.

He condoled with the family and prayed God to grant the Soul of the deceased eternal rest.

Niger State Governor and Chairman North Central Governors' Forum, Abubakar Sani Bello defied every cultural and religious barriers to share with the deceased family in the moment of grief.

Governor Sani Bello maintained that the deceased lived a good and exemplary life considering the good conduct and Godliness exhibited by the children he left behind.

He expressed heartfelt condolence to the Governor, his family and people of Akwa Ibom state and prayed God to grant the late Pa Nkanang's Soul peaceful rest.

In a sermon titled
"Faithfulness in stewardship: the Nigerian story", General Superintendent/Chairman of Conference Emeretus, Qua Iboe Church Nigeria, Reverend Dr. Sunday Moffot Effanga urged Nigerians who find themselves in leadership positions to be good stewards so as to build a virile nation.

Chairman Nigeria Governors' forum and Governor of Ekiti State, Dr. Kayode Fayemi, who spoke on behalf of his colleagues, described the gathering as a celebration of life, noting that the life of Elder Nkanang is replicated in the lives of the children he left behind.

Governor Udom could not hide his joy considering the cloud of crowed gathered. He expressed gratitude, describing the event as a bridge building ceremony that cuts across tribal, religious and geographical divides.

Mary Noel-Berje
Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Niger State.

NIGER STATE GOVERNOR and CHAIRMAN NORTH CENTRAL GOVERNOR'S FORUM,CALLS FOR A STRONG SYNERGY BETWEEN STATE GOVERNMENTS AND FEDERAL MINISTRY OF MINES AND STEEL DEVELOPMENT .

Governor Abubakar Sani Bello of Niger State who is also the Chairman of the North Central Governors Forum says building a strong synergy between the Federal Ministry of Mines and Steel Development and the state governments will address a lot of irregularities in the mining sector.
Governor Sani Bello stated this when he received the Minister of State for Mines and Steel Development, Dr. Uchechukwu Ogah Samson at the Government House, Minna,
While emphasising that positive results will be achieved when proper synergy is created between the two,
Governor Abubakar Sani Bello explained that a control mechanism must be put in place to check mining activities as
both the ministry and the state governments are being short-changed by the miners especially in payment of the royalty and Value Added Tax (VAT).
Governor Sani Bello therefore advocated the need for the Federal government to set up a strong task force to address the challenges associated with mining activities in the country.
Governor Sani Bello maintained that the mining sector is supposed to generate more than the oil sector hence the need to get it well positioned adding that as the chairman of the North-Central Governors Forum, he will present the idea in their next meeting for the Governors to key into the idea of working closely with the ministry noting that the zone is regarded as the centre of mineral resources.
Governor Abubakar Sani Bello expressed worry over how the mining sites have been turned to a den of security actvities,becoming a major threat to communities which he said his administration will not hesitate to shut down.
According to him, "Even as it stands, for now, I am poised to close down more sites if identified as one used for criminal activities"
The Governor implored the ministry to always collaborate with the state governments while issuing certificates to miners and also let them know the mining locations as some mining sites put the lives of people and communities in danger.
Speaking earlier, The Minister of State for Mines and Steel Development, Dr. Uchechukwu Ogah Samson, said they were in the state to interface with the mining team.
Dr. Samson, said he wants to synergize with the State governments so as to scale up the activities of the ministry.
He explained that state governments are entitled to 13 per cent derivation from royalties and Value Added Tax explaining that if the mining sector is not developed, nothing would be achieved
adding that Niger State has a lot of solid minerals and the impact has not been felt due to the nature of the mining activities taking place at the sites.
The minister explained that the miners need the protection of the State governors through security provision, adding that the ministry cannot get an optimal result without the state governors' input and emphasised the need for them to work closely with the state and local governments, even though mining is on the exclusive list.
The minister said only the Federal Government has the power to give license to any miner to operate, developing the sector will lead to many activities in the state as well as create job opportunities for the teeming youths.

Mary Noel-Berje
Chief Press Secretary to the Governor.

NIGER STATE GOVERNMENT TAKES DELIVERY OF OVER ONE BILLION NAIRA WORTH OF SOLAR DRIVE REFRIGERATORS

Niger state Governor Abubakar Sani Bello has inspected and inaugurated 174 solar Direct Drive
Refrigerators worth over one billion Naira donated to the Niger state government by GAVI , Bill and Malinda gates Foundation to boost immunization coverage across the state.
The equipment will be installed in 174 focal healthcare facilities in the 25 local government areas of the state.
Governor Abubakar sani Bello while inspecting the equipment in minna, appreciated the Donors explaining that they would improve health care services in the state.
The Commissioner for Health, Dr Mohammed Makunsidi said the equipment would serve over one thousand health facilities offering routine immunization, benefit three 0hundred thousand (300,000) pregnant women and one point two million children under five years of age annually.

Mary Noel-Berje
Chief Press Secretary to the Governor.

NIGER STATE GOVERNMENT SIGNS DEAL WITH DANTATA AND SOWOE FOR THE CONSTRUCTION OF MINNA-BIDA ROAD

Niger state government has signed the contract for the construction of Minna-Bida road to tune of 23 billion naira. The deal for the 82km road was signed by representatives of Niger State Government led by the Hon. Commisioner of works, Engr Ibrahim Panti and representatives of Dantata and Sowoe led by the Managing Director, Mr. Udo Heidscuster

The project is expected to be completed in 18 months.

APC INAUGURATES NATIONAL RECONCILIATION COMMITTEE FOR BETTER PERFORMANCE .

The All Progressives Congress, APC has inaugurated a 12-man National Reconciliation Committee to heal the wounds of the aftermath of 2019 general elections.

National Chairman of the Party, Comrade Adams Aliyu Oshiomhole inaugurated the committee at the party office in Abuja.

Chief Bisi Akande, one of the founding Fathers of the party is to serve as the Chairman, the Deputy Speaker House of Representatives, Ahmed Idris Wase is the Vice Chairman while Mr. John Enoh is the Secretary.

Other members of the Committee are: Governor Abubakar Sani Bello of Niger State, Governor Adegboyega Oyetola of Osun State, Senate Leader, Senator Yahaya Abdullahi; Sen. Umaru Tanko Al-Makura; Sen. Kashim Shettima; Minister of State for Environment, Sharon Ikeazor; Alh. Nasiru Aliko Koki; Sen. Khairat Gwadabe-Abdulrazak and Sen. Binta Garba.

The Chairman of the Party, Comrade Oshiomhole said the committee's mandate is to identify the differences and address grievances of party members across the 36 states of the Federation and the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja in order to resolve existing conflicts.

He said this will foster unity, strengthen the party, give direction and put them at a vantage position for next general elections.

The party chairman said the committee can co-opt anyone they feel will add value to their work and at the end make recommendation to the National Working Committee of the party.

The Chairman of the committee, Chief Bisi Akande disclosed that the calibre of persons in the committee spurred him to accept the responsibility as he assured that they will give their best and ensure that they get good results in reconciling the aggrieved party members .

After the inauguration, the chairman of the party and some members of the National Working Committee as well as the reconciliation committee went into a closed door meeting to evolve strategies for effective service delivery...

Mary Noel-Berje
Chief Press Secretary to Niger State Governor.

GOV. SANI BELLO VISIT VICTIMS OF BANDITRY ATTACKS AT IBB SPECIALISED HOSPITAL

****SYMPATHISES WITH PEOPLE OF GURMANA

Governor Abubakar Sani Bello of Niger State has sympathized with the victims of banditry attacks in Gurmana and adjoining Communities in Shiroro local government.

Governor Sani Bello who was at the IBB Specialized Hospital Minna, Sunday to personally see those receiving medication, prayed for their quick recovery.

He also commiserated with families of those who lost their lives in the incident.

While interacting with Journalists, the Governor explained that both State and Federal governments are working around the clock to bring an end to the carnage being perpetrated by the unscrupulous elements.

He also directed the Niger State Emergency Management Agency to provide succour to the affected Communities.

The governor however assured that strategic actions are being put in place to deal decisively with the bandits, urging the communities to give full support to the security agencies as well as fish out the bandits' informants amongst them.

He expressed concern, and worries that people are being displaced from their ancestral homes thereby slowing down their struggle for livelihood.

As at the time of his visit, most of the affected victims hospitalised had been discharged while others are receiving treatment at the General Hospital Minna.

Mary Noel-Berje
Chief Press Secretary to the Governor.

NIGER STATE at 44: GOVERNOR PLEDGES TO REMAIN STEADFAST AND COMMITTED TO FAST TRACKING THE DEVELOPMENT OF THE STATE .

Governor Abubakar Sani Bello of Niger State has pledged to evolve new strategies to fast track the growth and development of the State .

In a statement issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Mrs Mary Noel Berje, Governor Abubakar Sani Bello expressed gratitude to God for the appreciable progress and development recorded in the last forty four years of the creation of the State from the defunct North Western State during the regime of General Murtala Ramat Muhammad.

Governor Sani-Bello acknowledged the contributions of successive administrations since the creation of the State on the 3rd of February 1976 to _date and pledged to remain steadfast and committed to building a virile society.

The Governor also acknowledged the efforts of the traditional rulers and urged them to improve on the already existing harmonious, peaceful coexistence in their administrative jurisdictions in particular and the state as a whole.

The government, he said will continue to formulate policies and programmes to better the lives of the citizens of the State.

On the security challenges, Governor Abubakar Sani Bello said his administration has done a lot but will not relent until the issue of insecurity is addressed.


He says "Government is evolving new strategies and increasing community policing in addressing the new banditry approach and assuring citizens on the readiness of government to bring to an end this unfortunate situation.

He called for collective efforts noting that the task of governance is a collective responsibility which must not be left to government alone.

CONGRATULATIONS

Mary Noel-Berje
Chief Press Secretary to Governor of Niger state

GOVERNOR SANI BELLO URGES ORGANISED LABOUR TO SHELVE PLANNED STRIKE ACTION

Governor Abubakar Sani Bello of Niger State has appealed to the state chapter of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) to shelve it planned strike for peace and industrial harmony.

This is because negotiations are still on and government is doing its best to improve the living standard of the people despite the challenges and paucity of funds available to the state both from the Internally generated revenue and the Statutory allocation.

The Governor, in a statement issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Mrs. Mary Noel Berje said government is workng relentlessly to ensure that all pending labour-related issues are addressed swiftly.

Governor Sani Bello explained that the state government has already commenced the implementation of the National Minimum Wage assuring that its consequential adjustment and arrears will be paid as soon as government and labour conclude negotiations.

"We are still negotiating with the Labour, we intend to avert the industrial action and we are calling on the Organised Labour to rescind its decision to embark on the strike and allow negotiations to continue and consequently conclude arrangement".

The meeting between key government officials led by the Deputy Governor, Ahmed Mohammed Ketso and the Labour officials is expected to continue on the fourth of this month and the outcome of the meeting will be made public.

The Governor noted that, although 85% of the state's allocation goes to payment of salaries, government has remained committed to the welfare of the state civil servants and will not relent until an agreement is reached.


On the security challenges confronting the state,Governor Sani Bello pointed out that government would continue to do its best to protect the lives and property of the people.

"Let me also assure you ,that government is evolving new strategies as well as encouraging community policing to address the banditry attacks and kidnapping. We are ready to bring to an to the menace".


Mary Noel Berje
Chief Press Secretary to the Governor to Niger state

GOVERNOR SANI BELLO SIGNS 2020 APPROPRIATION ACT INTO LAW

Governor Abubakar Sani Bello of Niger State has signed the year 2020 Appropriation Act of N155,459,814,700.12 into law.

This shows a considerable increase of N7,247,885,151 against the 148,211,929,549.12 approved earlier by the State Assembly.

The 2020 budget proposal now consists of Recurrent Expenditure of N70,002,224,042.12 and a Capital Expenditure of N85,457,590,658.00.

The budget, entitled 'Budget of Inclusion for Sustainable Development', is anchored on the completion of all ongoing projects, especially those that have attained 75% completion as well as consolidate and improve on the gains recorded so far.

With the signing of the 2020 Budget, the state government is also expected to focus on the construction and or completion of ongoing state and township road projects, particularly the dualization of the Minna-Bida road among others.

Mary Noel Berje
Chief Press Secretary to the Governor

PRESIDENT BUHARI TALKS TOUGH ON BANDITRY


President Muhammadu Buhari has warned bandits against their actions that are crumbling human activities, thereby making life difficult for Nigerians.

The President handed down the warning when he received a delegation of Eminent Citizens of Niger State, led by Governor Abubakar Sani Bello at the State House, Abuja

He noted that activities of the bandits have made many farmers abandon their farms and homes, Saying: “we will now be harder on them.’’
“I was taken aback by what is happening in the North West and other parts of the country.
He observed that Boko haram that was known to be operating mostly in the north east has unfortunately spread to the North West, a trend he described as an evil plan against the Country.

While acknowledging that provision of security for the Citizenry is one of government's responsibilities, the President maintained that unless government secures the People, the Country will find it difficult to manage the economy properly,’’

President Buhari expressed concern over the way and manner activities of the bandits have affected agricultural output in some parts of the country despite the favourable weather for farming support to farmers by the government.

The President said the poverty level in the country will be significantly controlled by diversifying into agriculture, adding
that discovery of oil and gas reserves in Chad Basin, Benue trough and Bida, as well as parts of Bauchi and Gombe, will further boost current efforts geared towards strengthening
Nigeria''s economy.


He advised leaders in the Niger Delta to counsel those who blow up pipelines, resulting in spillages that affect farming and farmlands, noting that the loss had always been collective, sometimes turning hard working farmers to victims.

The leader of the delegation and Niger state Governor, Alhaji Abubakar Sani Bello who spoke along side former Governor Dr. Mu'azu Babangida Aliya and Etsu Nupe, Alhaji Yahaya Abubakar said the delegation was at the villa to show appreciation
to the President for his many interventions on infrastructure, security and appointments of indigenes of the State into key positions of government .

They decried activities of the bandits which have rendered many homeless, while others could no longer go to farms.

They thanked the President for taking a decisive action by directing aerial protection by the military.

They however appealed to the President to intervene in the infrastructure challenges in Niger State particularly Federal roads which include Minna-Bida, Mokwa-Birnin- Gwari-Kaduna road, Kotongora road, among others as well as the Minna
International airport and Baro port which if completed will augment that of the FCT.

They assured the President of continuous support, praying God to give him more wisdom and strength to run the affairs of the country.......