Niger to set aside N9Billion annually for Ward Development Projects across 274 wards
By: TUNDE BOLAJI – MINNA.
Niger State government will hence allocate the sum of N9 billion naira annually for ward development projects across the 274 wards in State,
This hint was dropped by the Chairman of the State Ward Development Steering Committee, Falalu Bako.
He made this announcement during the final phase of a sensitization tour to the eight emirate councils, which concluded with a visit to the Kontagora Emirate.
Bako revealed that the visit was to deliver Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago’s message of commitment to grassroots development.
“As part of the initiative, 11 individuals will be inaugurated for each local government ward project, while 9 others will be selected to serve at the ward level.”
He emphasized that the ward committees will be tasked with identifying and planning development needs within their communities, ensuring a bottom-up approach to governance.
The Chairman also conveyed the governor’s plea for continued prayers and support, adding that Governor Bago envisions Niger State becoming the benchmark forward development in Nigeria within the next five years.
“The governor has made it clear that any individual who tampers with the development project funds will face severe consequences. These funds must be used judiciously,” Bako warned.
Chairman of Kontagora Local Government Council, Shehu Pawa, expressed gratitude to the governor for establishing the committee and pledged the emirate’s unwavering support for the administration’s developmental efforts.
Also speaking, the State Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Aminu Bobi, cautioned party members in all 274 wards against interfering in the execution of the projects.
He stressed that the initiative is non-partisan and inclusive of all, regardless of political affiliation or religion warning that any party member found misappropriating public funds will face prosecution.
Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Binta Mamma, noted that the ward development initiative will significantly benefit women, describing them as key drivers of home and community development. “We must be watchdogs for the governor and ensure close monitoring of this important project,” she said.
Special Adviser to the Governor on Political and Strategic Matters, Mohammed Nmakolo, urged local governments and wards to use the allocated resources wisely to achieve meaningful impact.
During the meeting, stakeholders raised important questions and recommendations, including:
1. Clarification on which accounts the funds will be transferred to.
2. The need for effective checks and balances and strong monitoring mechanisms.
3. A call for the removal of political and personal biases in the execution of the projects.
Representing the Emir of Kontagora, Alhaji Mohammed Barau Mu’azu II, Galadima Kontagora, and Shehu Galadima, expressed deep appreciation for the initiative.
He described the development plan as a significant milestone for both the emirate and the state.
He also urged the steering committee to appoint individuals of integrity who fear God, as this would ensure accountability and a lasting impact on the people.
The sensitization visit concluded with renewed calls for transparency, inclusiveness, and dedication in driving community-based development across Niger State.
