By: TUNDE BOLAJI, MINNA.
Niger State Governor Umaru Bago has welcomed global leaders, industry experts, policymakers, investors, and members of the Nigerian diaspora at the inaugural Niger Day event, which took place on the sidelines of the 80th United Nations General Assembly.
It was a significant move to enhance his administration’s development agenda.
The event highlighted Niger State’s strategic 30-year vision plan, focusing on four key pillars: improved livelihoods, sustainable economic growth, urban renewal alongside rural transformation, and good governance.
These priorities aim to combat poverty, promote world-class industries, modernize infrastructure, and establish strong institutions, positioning Niger State as a model for transformative change in Africa.
Emphasizing the importance of human capital development and agricultural transformation, the event featured two high-level panel discussions that included contributions from prominent figures such as Hajiya Shamsuna Ahmed of the World Bank Group, Ahunna Eziakonwa from UNDP Africa, Nigeria’s Minister for Trade and Investment Dr. Jumoke Oduwole, UBA’s Group Managing Director Oliver Alawuba, and Dr. Abdulateef Shittu, Director-General of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum.
A highlight of the event was the signing of three Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) designed to foster strategic partnerships.
These agreements included collaboration with Salin 247 Inc. to improve agricultural mechanization through AI and smart technologies, Junior Achievement Nigeria for the implementation of the School-to-Work Education Transition for Long-term Youth Fulfillment (SET4LYF) program, and Ethnomet Inc. for the establishment of 274 Virtual Primary Care Centers to innovate healthcare delivery.
These partnerships demonstrate Niger State’s commitment to transforming its agricultural sector, empowering youth, increasing school enrollment rates, and revolutionizing primary healthcare—all while maintaining a focus on people-centered sustainable development.