Celebrating 50 Years of Niger State

Fellow Citizens of Niger State, I wish to bring forth the inaugural budget of the Niger State Government for the fiscal year of 1976/1977. This State came into existence from the now-defunct North-Western State of Nigeria on February 3, 1976, under the Federal Military Government's authority. As of April 1, 1976, the State Government assumed full control over its services. The budget for this financial year showcases a total revenue of N105,544,704 (One hundred and five million, five hundred and forty-four thousand, seven hundred and four Naira) juxtaposed against a total expenditure of N131,116,695 (One hundred and thirty-one million, one hundred and sixteen thousand, six hundred and ninety- five Naira), resulting in an overall deficit of N25,571,990 (Twenty-five million, five hundred and seventy-one thousand, nine hundred and ninety Naira). These notable words were articulated by then 32-year-old naval officer; Commander Murtala Hamman Yero Nyako, who served as the first Military Governor.

Following Nyako, a series of governors led the State, including Commodore Okoh Ebitu Ukiwe, Brigadier Olayemi Oni, Mal. Muhammadu Awal Ibrahim, Lt. Col. David Mark, Col. Garba Ali Muhammad known as ka rantse, Col. Lawal Gwadabe, the late Dr. Musa Inuwa, Col. Cletus K. Emein, the late CP Simon Oduoye, Col. Habibu Idris Shuaib, the late Engineer A.A Kure, Dr. Mu’azu Babangida Aliyu, Senator Abubakar Sani Bello, and the current governor, Hon. Umar Mohammed Bago. The initial budget, significantly lower than what a single local government area currently receives monthly, was earmarked for an array of projects such as the development of office spaces, dual carriage construction (Bosso Road) in Minna, electrification of towns like Agaie, Lapai, Baro, and Kagara, as well as building 570 housing units for varying staff levels.

The budget further accommodated vital initiatives such as divisional secretariats in Bida and Kontagora, continued water scheme projects in Minna, Bida, Abuja (Suleja), and Kagara, and upgrading infrastructures for the judicial system among others. It also addressed the establishment of primary schools to launch the Universal Primary Education (UPE) initiative across the state, along with hospital expansions and the creation of healthcare centers.

Half a century later, numerous structures established with the first budget of Niger State in 1976/77 remain functional and actively used by residents. Regrettably, post-1999, the momentum for economic growth ignited by that initial budget has seen a tragic decline, leading to disillusionment among the populace due to successive administrations' failure to sustain economic initiatives. Corruption, lack of visionary leadership, ineffective governance policies, and maladministration have largely contributed to the ongoing governance challenges faced by the state. Many educational institutions and healthcare facilities resemble abandoned structures, while the roads have become hazardous. Insufficient or non-existent access to drinking water, inadequate infrastructure, and rampant unemployment have become overwhelming issues.

Despite possessing a pool of talented professionals across all sectors, the state still trails behind many others established later, especially those founded in 1987, 1991, and 1996 regarding development metrics. Questions linger regarding the accountability for these setbacks. Is it the responsibility of seasoned elders and technocrats who failed to correctly guide elected officials, or did those elected leaders dismiss valuable advice for self-interest?

Niger State's land area surpasses that of both the Netherlands and Belgium and is rich in mineral resources such as gold, talc, silica sand, and various other natural reserves. Spanning 76,244 square kilometers, the land is fertile enough to cultivate nearly all crucial agricultural products, opening doors for mechanized farming, livestock grazing, fishing, and forestry.

Furthermore, local governments such as Suleja, Gurara, and Tafa possess significant yet unexplored revenue-generating potentials that could strengthen economic foundations if properly harnessed. Previously subjected to developmental setbacks, Niger State could have been a vital economic hub in Africa, given its extensive agricultural capacity. Regrettably, the state's abundant resources remain untapped, leading to stagnation in investment, revenue generation, and industrial development.

However, the ascendance of Hon. Umar Bago has sparked renewed ambitions directed towards expansive infrastructural development, particularly in roadway construction, investment facilitation, and agricultural progress within the state. Most of the present appointees and elected officials were either toddlers or unborn when the state was carved out in 1976, yet the children of yesterday now hold positions of leadership and governance. Their youthful vigor comes with an obligation to surpass the commendable endeavors of those who laid the groundwork.

Governor Umar Bago is urged to avoid falling into reactive approaches regarding funding. During his campaign, he emphasized eliminating budget diversions that historically redirected funds meant for critical areas like education, healthcare, and infrastructure towards less essential projects. Acknowledging that diversions are universally frowned upon, it’s vital for governance to focus on constructive investment for a sustainable future without disregarding current responsibilities.

As the sitting governor, it is essential for Mr. Farmer Governor to cultivate a governance style rooted in conviction rather than convenience. The state has had an array of leaders who often appear stagnant, akin to monuments rather than dynamic figures. In confronting corruption, the challenge lies not only in changing leadership but in proactively addressing systemic inertia.

Effective leadership will not only combat corruption but will also promote an equitable opportunity landscape, ensuring that Niger does not devolve into a playground for unscrupulous individuals. The true threat to the state largely arises from internal inconsistencies regarding pivotal issues. We envision a governor who can bridge the gap between claims and reality.

His Excellency, let it be at the forefront of your mind that democracy thrives on accountability, and true leadership demands humility—the courage to accept constructive criticism, no matter how unsettling. A successful leader should advocate for scrutiny rather than suppress it. Niger State, under your guidance, should not be a platform for praise-seekers and opportunistic politicians, but a realm where citizens feel empowered to voice inquiries and concerns. True hope stems from a leader’s ability to unify people through collaboration, shared objectives, and future prospects.

It requires hope to surmount deep fears and confront significant challenges. While citizens appreciate encouraging news from their leaders, this must be intertwined with authenticity and factual backing rather than merely delivering optimistic platitudes. Leaders who practice humility recognize that they cannot resolve every challenge alone. Therefore, they must create an inclusive environment where others can contribute significantly—collectively.

As we commemorate 50 years since the establishment of Niger State, there exists a palpable realization that the state endures and strives. Our collective aspiration is for Niger State to thrive under your governance, with significant improvements reflected in education, healthcare, infrastructure, and transport. Should the state stagnate under your watch, history will undoubtedly hold you accountable. Your true success will manifest when Niger State regains its former glory.

I conclude by paying homage to the inaugural Commissioners—individuals of integrity who painstakingly managed the resources entrusted to them to launch various projects throughout the State. They include the late Justice Idris Legbo Kutigi, Alhaji Abdullahi Bisalla, Alhaji Sidi Aliyu Enagi, Alhaji Abdulraheem Dangana, Alhaji Sallau Agaie, Alhaji Idris Ibrahim Kuta, Alhaji Muhammadu Kundu, Alhaji Muhammadu King, and Alhaji Umaru Mashegu. It is indeed a paradox that aside from the late Justice Kutigi, who has a structure named after him, none of these remarkable individuals has received due acknowledgment from subsequent administrations. Happy Birthday to Niger State as it turns 50; where do we stand now, and where are we heading?