The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Alhaji Mohammed Idris, has described Niger’s 50th anniversary as a defining moment to strength and pursue inclusive growth and sustainable debelopment.
Idris in a statement on Wednesday in Abuja, said 50 years was more than a milestone.
According to him, it is a testament to resilience, shared sacrifice, and the enduring hope of a people committed to progress.
“As Niger marks its golden jubilee, we celebrate not just the passage of time, but the collective journey of our people, achievements, struggles, and the promise that lies ahead.
“Created in 1976 alongside Imo, Benue, Ogun, Ondo and Osun states, Niger proudly known as The Power State, occupies a unique place in Nigeria’s story.
“As the largest state in Nigeria by landmass, contributing a large portion of the geography that constitutes the present Federal Capital Territory, Niger State is blessed with vast arable land.
“It is home to critical hydroelectric assets, such as the Kainji, Jebba, and Shiroro Dams, which are tied to our national development, powering industries, supporting agriculture, and sustaining livelihoods across the country.
“Like many states in Nigeria, Niger has sustained democratic governance through changing times. Yet, today is not merely a moment to look back at how far we have come. It is a call to chart a more straightforward, more deliberate path toward inclusive growth and sustainable transformation.
“I urge fellow “Nigerlites” to support Gov. Umaru Bago, for the growth and development of Niger,” Idris said.
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He further explained that the journey toward a truly united and prosperous Niger is ongoing.
Idris added that, under the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Tinubu, deliberate efforts are being made to revitalise the economy across the federation, and Niger State.
He noted that the state would continue to benefit from this national vision for growth, infrastructure renewal, and institutional reform.
“As we look forward, we must also confront the realities of our present, strengthen our institutions, and recommit to governance that delivers real value to the people.
“At the same time, this celebration is incomplete without honouring the founding fathers of Niger and the patriots who laid the foundations of constitutional democracy and stability five decades ago.
“At 50, Niger stands at a defining moment. By embracing this shared narrative of hope, responsibility, and unity, let us renew our commitment to the future we seek to build.
“By so doing, when we gather again to celebrate a century, we will do so as a state that fulfilled its promise to its people”. Idris said. (NAN)
