***Pass Vote of Confidence
The Forum of Former Local Government Chairmen in Niger State has passed a vote of confidence on Governor Umaru Mohammed Bago, praising his administration’s remarkable achievements in the past two years.
The endorsement came on Wednesday during a courtesy visit to the governor at the Government House in Minna. The visit followed the maiden meeting of the forum’s Niger State chapter, held at the State House of Assembly Conference Hall.
Leading the delegation of over 130 former council chairmen, Ahmed Musa Ibeto, a former Deputy Governor of Niger State and former Chairman of Rijau Local Government, commended Governor Bago’s aggressive transformation efforts across the state.
Ibeto, who also served as Nigeria’s Ambassador to South Africa, highlighted the agricultural revolution and massive infrastructural projects initiated by the governor as proof of his commitment to genuine development.
“Your achievements are visible for all to see. You have shown leadership, commitment, and a clear vision for Niger State’s transformation. The ‘New Niger Agenda’ is not just a slogan but a reality in progress,” Ibeto stated.
He emphasized that the forum, made up of leaders from various political parties, is a non-partisan body dedicated to humanitarian service, grassroots development, and governance advocacy.
In his response, Governor Bago expressed gratitude for the forum’s support and reiterated his administration’s commitment to delivering impactful projects. He assured them that no ongoing project under his leadership would be abandoned.
“We inherited a state with serious infrastructural decay, but we are determined to change that. After nearly 50 years of existence, Niger State lacked a concrete development plan—something we are now addressing,” he said.
The governor urged forum members to continue supporting the government with ideas and advice, regardless of their political affiliations, stressing that Niger State belongs to everyone.
Speaker of the Niger State House of Assembly and former Chairman of Mariga Local Government, Rt. Hon. Abdulmalik Sarkindaji, welcomed the forum members and urged them to put politics aside.
“This forum must remain focused on its objectives—supporting governance and grassroots development. We will not allow it to be hijacked by political interests,” he said.
He emphasized the role of former grassroots leaders in driving sustainable development, adding that their collective experience is invaluable to policy-making and governance.
The forum’s meeting in Minna follows its recent national gathering in Abuja, where the national leadership structure was formed. With the endorsement of Governor Bago’s administration, the forum has positioned itself as a key stakeholder in Niger State’s development journey.
Governor Bago’s New Niger Agenda has continued to gain traction, with increasing support from political leaders, stakeholders, and grassroots representatives—a clear indication that the state’s transformation is on the right track.