Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago has inaugurated the State Steering Committee for the Niger State Ward Development Project, aimed at empowering local communities and driving growth across the state.......CONTINUE READING THE ARTICLE FROM THE SOURCE>>>>>
The project will receive an annual allocation of N9.864 billion, with each of the 274 wards receiving N3 million monthly to address local needs.
Inaugurating the committee in Minna, the governor explained that the same committee structure will be replicated at the local government level, with Local Government Committees established to oversee the implementation of ward development projects. He noted that N3 million is set as a baseline, as various agencies such as the Local Government Area Councils, SUBEB, healthcare centres, and the Ministries of Environment and Education also have projects domiciled in the wards. He emphasised the need for synchronisation to ensure an even spread of development across the state.
Bago stressed the importance of community involvement, urging committee members to engage with local stakeholders and identify priorities. He disclosed that the committee will conduct a needs assessment to address key areas, including healthcare, education, sanitation, water, security, and infrastructure.
Responding, the chairman of the committee and Commissioner for Rural and Community Development, Phalalu Bako Mohammed, thanked the governor for his confidence in them, assuring that the committee would work tirelessly to ensure the project’s successful implementation. He pledged to engage local stakeholders, conduct a thorough needs assessment, and ensure that the allocated funds are utilised effectively.
Other members of the committee include the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Mu’azu Hamidu Jantabo, who serves as Vice Chairman; Alhaji Aminu Musa Bobi, the Niger State APC Chairman; Hajiya Binta Mamman, Commissioner for Information and Strategy; Engineer Ibrahim Panti, Special Adviser on the Ward Development Project; Mohammad Nma Kolo, Special Adviser on Political Matters; Yahuza Abdullahi, Director-General of Wards Relations; Iliyasu Zakari, Niger State ALGON Chairman; and Dr Yakubu Mohammed Bello, Permanent Secretary for Rural Development, who will serve as the secretary of the committee.