By Hon. Sayuti Ibrahim Halilu
Executive Chairman, Agaie Local Government Area, Niger State
In my years of public service, I have seen leaders come and go, each leaving a mark in their own way. But rarely have we, as a state, been blessed with a leader whose vision, determination, and actions have so quickly transformed the lives of our people as Governor Umaru Mohammed Bago— fondly called the Farmer Governor. Without any doubt, I can boldly say he is the best thing that has ever happened to Niger State.
Since assuming office in May 2023, Governor Bago has pursued the New Niger Agenda with uncommon passion and clarity. His blueprint for development is not a political slogan; it is a living plan built on solid pillars — infrastructure renewal, agricultural revolution, educational advancement, healthcare improvement, and economic empowerment.
Transforming Infrastructure
The Farmer Governor has opened a new chapter in Niger State’s development. Over 1,000km of roads — including 400km of federal Trunk A roads — are being constructed or rehabilitated, many already completed. These road projects, coupled with flyovers and urban renewal efforts, are easing transportation, boosting trade, and reshaping the face of our state for generations to come.
Driving Agricultural Prosperity
True to his title, Governor Bago has turned agriculture into a driver of our economy. From procuring hundreds of tractors to establishing the Agricultural Development Fund and hosting the groundbreaking 2023 Green Economy Summit, his policies are shifting our state from subsistence farming to a modern green economy. Thousands of farmers are being empowered, jobs are being created, and Niger State is becoming a hub for agribusiness in Nigeria.
Rebuilding Healthcare
Under his leadership, the health sector is receiving an unprecedented boost. Recently, Governor Bago boldly declared a STATE OF EMERGENCY on healthcare in Niger State, signalling his determination to fix the sector once and for all. This was not a symbolic announcement; it was followed by decisive actions. Twenty state-of-the-art level-2 primary healthcare centres have already been completed, with over 80 more underway across the state. These facilities are powered by 24-hour solar energy and equipped with laboratories, theatres, and pharmacies, ensuring that quality healthcare reaches even the most remote communities.
Reforming Education
Governor Bago has also declared a STATE OF EMERGENCY on education in Niger State — an unprecedented step that underlines his belief that education is the foundation of a prosperous and secure future. This bold move has already triggered reforms aimed at expanding access, improving quality, and modernising school infrastructure. Abolishing the compulsory uniform policy has opened classroom doors to thousands of children from disadvantaged backgrounds. His focus on nomadic education, Fulani settlement schools, and the School for the Future programme ensures that no child is left behind in the New Niger vision.
A Stabilising Political Force
Beyond physical development, Governor Bago has brought unity, stability, and mutual respect to Niger State politics. His recent unanimous endorsement by the APC Niger Caucus is a testament to his exceptional leadership and the trust he has earned from party leaders, lawmakers, and stakeholders.
Endorsement for Second Term – 2027
It is, therefore, no surprise that the call for Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago to continue beyond 2027 has become a resounding chorus across every corner of Niger State. From the markets of Bida to the farmlands of Agaie, from the streets of Minna to the riverine communities of Borgu, our people are united in one voice — Bago must continue.
It is our anticipation that whosoever comes later should complement and do better than the former. That is exactly what the Farmer Governor has showcased. In just over two years, he has not only matched the achievements of past administrations but has exceeded them, setting a new standard for leadership in Niger State. His administration has rekindled hope, restored dignity to governance, and placed the state firmly on the path of prosperity.
A second term will not only ensure continuity but will also allow for the consolidation of these unprecedented gains. Major projects, such as the state’s road expansion drive, the agricultural modernization programme, the healthcare emergency reforms, and the education-for-all initiative, require stability and consistent leadership to reach their full potential. Disrupting this momentum would be a costly mistake that Niger State cannot afford.
The people of Niger State know that leadership of this calibre does not come often. Governor Bago’s humility, accessibility, and commitment to the welfare of his people set him apart. He has proven that he is not in government for personal enrichment but for the genuine transformation of the lives of Nigerlites.
As the Executive Chairman of Agaie Local Government Area, I have witnessed first-hand the positive changes filtering down from the state level to our communities. From better roads to thriving farms, from improved schools to accessible healthcare, the dividends of the New Niger Agenda are everywhere.
It is for this reason, and for the sake of the future of our children, that I join the millions of voices across Niger State in declaring my full and unreserved endorsement for Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago to seek a second term in 2027. With him at the helm, we will complete the transformation we have started and secure a brighter tomorrow for all.