On Monday, Governor Mohammed Bago of Niger swore in 60 new political appointees, including 30 commissioners and 30 special advisers.

In a speech at the event, the governor said the appointments are strictly based on merit, competence and a proven record of hard work and integrity.

He urged the appointees to work together in synergy to ensure that the government delivered on its mandate from the state’s people.

“I need you all to embrace teamwork as the key to driving government’s policies and programmes while complementing each other to achieve the overall target of delivering the highest good for the highest number,” he said.

He warned them against complacency, docility and corruption in their duties.

“If you allow yourself to be caught in the web of corruption, you will definitely be shown the way out,” the governor said.

He said the government would hold them accountable in the daily activities of their ministries, departments and agencies.

Mr Bago solicited the support of the residents to enable his government to deliver the dividend of democracy to them.

He said his government would provide critical infrastructure for education, health and agricultural value-chain, create jobs, empower the youths, and pay attention to improved urban renewal, amongst others.

Also, the Secretary to the State Government, Abubakar Usman, advised them to be guided in their daily activities by their oath of office.

Responding on behalf of the appointees, Maurice Magaji, the Commissioner for Lands and Survey, promised that they would serve with honesty, dignity and humaneness.

(NAN)