The Niger state government has provided N3 million to each of the 274 wards in the 25 local government areas for Ward Development projects.
Phallalu Mohammed, the Commissioner for Rural and Community Development, shared this information during a tour to inform traditional institutions across the state.
He stated that Governor Mohammed Bago is dedicated to reviving the Ward Development Projects to bring real development to communities in all 274 wards.
The State Ward Development Project Steering Committee visited the Emirate Councils of Suleja, Lapai, and Agaie to discuss the project’s goals and implementation strategies with traditional leaders and local stakeholders.
According to Mohammed, “each of the wards will receive a sum of N3 million to implement locally driven projects identified by community leaders and residents.
“We are here to sensitise our royal fathers and community leaders on the state government’s renewed focus on ward-level development.
“This project is designed to empower communities to take ownership of their development priorities,” he said.
The commissioner added that the Niger state Ward and Local Government Development Committees, which will include members from traditional, religious, political, and civil society groups, will be formed to ensure transparency and inclusiveness. These committees will manage the funds and oversee project implementation.
He assured traditional leaders that the steering committee would make sure no ward is left behind and that funds would be used wisely.
“It is not going to be business as usual. We are committed to ensuring transparency, community participation, and value for every kobo spent,” he emphasized.
In her speech, Binta Mamman, the Commissioner for Information and Strategy, praised Governor Bago for his efforts and noted that the ward development project would help women, who are often the most vulnerable in society.
“When boreholes, primary health care centres, and schools are working and in good shape, productivity and social economic growth will be boosted in the state,” Mamman said.
In Lapai, Emir Alhaji Engineer Tafida Bago III, along with Emir Alhaji Yusuf Nuhu of Agaie and Emir Mallam Awal Ibrahim of Suleja, represented by Madakin Suleja Engineer Shuibu Gani, praised the governor’s vision in reviving the ward development model.
Niger State Commissioner for Information and Strategy Binta Mamman addressed the media during the post-executive council briefing.