Niger State Governor Extends Maternity Leave to Six Months, Announces Major Development Initiatives
In a landmark policy move aimed at improving maternal and child health, the Governor of Niger State, Mohammed Umaru Bago, has approved the extension of maternity leave for women in the state’s civil service from three months to six months.
This decision, he said, aligns with international best practices and underscores his administration’s commitment to the welfare of women and children.
Governor Bago made the announcement during the weekly executive council meeting held at the Council Chamber of the Government House in Minna. According to the governor, the extended leave period will allow nursing mothers more time to care for their newborns and recover fully, ultimately leading to greater productivity when they return to work.
“The six-month maternity leave is part of a broader initiative to safeguard maternal and child health,” Governor Bago stated. “It is essential that women are given adequate time to care for themselves and their infants during this critical stage of life. This policy reflects our commitment to creating a more supportive and health-conscious workforce.”
To ensure effective implementation, the governor directed the Head of Service, Abubakar Idris, to develop the necessary framework and operational guidelines for rolling out the policy across all relevant government sectors.
Providing further insight into the outcomes of the executive council meeting, the Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Binta Mamman, briefed the press and outlined several other developmental initiatives approved by the government.
Among them was the approval of N1.3 billion for the procurement of 23,000 chairs for public primary and secondary schools across the state. Mamman explained that this move is part of a broader effort to address critical infrastructure deficits in the education sector and to create a more conducive learning environment for students.
In the area of economic development, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Trade and Investment, Hamza Bello, announced that the state government is in the final stages of signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for the establishment of a $200 million Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) plant in Lambata. This project is expected to not only provide alternative energy sources but also create jobs and stimulate industrial growth in the region.
Bello also disclosed plans to revive economic activities at the long-abandoned Suleja International Market and Motor Park through the construction of 350 new shops. He noted that this development would serve as a catalyst for commercial activity and generate income for the state and local entrepreneurs.
Additionally, the government has initiated steps to resuscitate the Niger Fertiliser Company, which has been dormant for years. According to Bello, the revitalization of the fertiliser plant will significantly boost agricultural productivity, improve food security, and support farmers across the state with more accessible and affordable inputs.
These policy decisions and infrastructure investments reflect the Bago administration’s broader vision for inclusive development, improved quality of life for residents, and long-term economic sustainability.