Idris Commends Bago’s Investments in Agriculture, Infrastructure

Idris Commends Bago’s Investments in Agriculture, Infrastructure

…Hails ₦1.5tn Federal Highway Project in Niger

By Sarah Kitka

Abuja (Core Reporters) — Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, has commended Niger State Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago for investments in agriculture, infrastructure and economic development, describing the Federal Government’s proposed ₦1.5 trillion Lambata–Bida–Mokwa–Makera–Kontagora highway project as a major boost to the state’s economic prospects.

Idris, who is also Chairman of the Niger State Development Forum (NSDF), made the remarks on Friday in Abuja when he led members of the forum on a courtesy visit to Governor Bago.

He praised the growing collaboration between the Federal and Niger State Governments, particularly in the development of critical infrastructure and the expansion of economic opportunities.

The minister described Niger State as strategically important to Nigeria’s development, citing its vast agricultural potential, geographical location and contribution to national electricity generation through the Kainji, Jebba and Shiroro hydroelectric power stations.

“Your administration’s investments in agriculture, infrastructure, urban renewal and economic development are laying important foundations for the transformation of our state,” Idris said.

He particularly commended Bago’s emphasis on mechanised farming, commercial agriculture and agro-industrial development, noting that the initiatives could stimulate economic growth, increase food production and strengthen the state’s contribution to national food security.

Idris also praised President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for the proposed ₦1.5 trillion reconstruction and dualisation of the Lambata–Bida–Mokwa–Makera–Kontagora Federal Highway, with the groundbreaking ceremony scheduled for October 13, 2026, in Bida.

Describing the project as a landmark intervention, the minister said the highway would improve connectivity across one of Nigeria’s important agricultural and commercial corridors.

“This is a landmark intervention in one of Nigeria’s most strategic agricultural and commercial corridors. The highway will improve access to farming communities, connect markets and industrial centres, and facilitate the movement of agricultural produce, goods and people,” he said.

In his response, Governor Bago thanked President Tinubu for his administration’s support for Niger State, citing federal infrastructure projects, development financing and appointments to federal institutions as areas of collaboration.

“On behalf of the Government and people of Niger State, I want to thank President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his love and support for our state. We have enjoyed significant support from the Federal Government, especially in infrastructure.

“The ₦1.5 trillion highway project will ease the movement of goods and people, support agricultural prosperity and help businesses thrive,” Bago said.

The minister also expressed condolences to the government and people of Niger State, particularly families and communities affected by recent tragedies and security challenges.

He acknowledged the efforts of the Niger State Government, the Federal Government and security agencies in addressing the challenges, although further details of his remarks were not provided in the available text.