Governor Umar Bago of Niger has charged political appointees, elected politicians and residents to key into his “New Niger Agenda” to enhance the state’s growth and development.

Mr Bago made the statement during a reception in honour of newly elected and appointed Ministers, National and State Assembly members held at the Justiće Idris Legbo Kutigi International Conference Centre, Minna on Saturday.

He said that the gathering was aimed at fostering unity, collaboration, among all and sundry to be on the same page in achieving steady progress.

The governor added that the event was adopted as a policy to be observed every quarter to provide a platform for meaningful discussions on issues that affect the state.

“It will also be used to show how best to address these issues,” Mr Bago said, even as he directed the 25 Local Government Areas to replicate same in their respective councils.

He advised the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris-Malagi, whom he described as an elder brother, to use his good office to fast-track the growth and development of the state and the county.

He appealed to the Minister of State for Agriculture and Food Security, Mr Sabi-Abdullahi, to ensure that the state was considered for the pilot scheme of the federal government’s agricultural initiatives based on its size and abundant untapped natural resources.

In their separate goodwill messages, Mr Idris-Malagi and Mr Sabi-Abdullahi, both lauded the governor for his foresight and acknowledged that a ‘New Niger’ was achievable.

Mr Idris-Malagi said, “No need for acrimony, It is time to come together, make sacrifices and synergise for a new Niger as Governor Bago is not only building a #NewNiger, but also unifying the people.”

The Senator representing Niger South, Sen. Peter Jiya, spoke on behalf of the members of the National Assembly from the state.

Abdulmalik Muhammad, who also spoke on behalf of the members of the state assembly, assured that they would work collectively for the growth and development of the state.

The Chief Judge of the state, Justice Halima Abdulmalik, on behalf of the Judiciary pledged its support to the realisation of the ‘New Niger’ agenda of the governor.

The Sarkin Sudan of Kontagora, Muhammadu Mu’azu II, who spoke on behalf of the Niger Council of Traditional Rulers, urged elected and appointed leaders to serve with the fear of God and do their best in addressing the challenges bedevilling the state.

Earlier, the Secretary to the Niger Government, Abubakar Usman, said “The maiden event is to usher in the new development agenda of the governor.”

(NAN)