The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, has disclosed that he facilitated 30 federal appointments for indigenes of Niger State since assuming office. Idris made the revelation while addressing a complaint from a traditional ruler in his constituency, who had criticized him for not securing federal positions for his people.
In his response, the minister highlighted the appointment of Jibrin Baba Ndace as the Director General of the Voice of Nigeria as one of his key achievements. “Since I was appointed as minister, I facilitated the appointment of Jibrin Baba Ndace as Director General of the Voice of Nigeria. I also facilitated over 30 federal appointments for citizens of the state since I became minister,” he explained.
Idris, who was in his home village of Malagi in Gbako Local Government Area, made the comments during the commissioning of several multimillion-naira development projects. These included the construction of an Islamiyya School and mosque aimed at promoting religious education and fostering peace and unity within the community. He also inaugurated electrification, water projects, and a remodeled primary school in the area.
Addressing concerns about the community’s expectations, Idris acknowledged that while there was a desire for more initiatives, progress would be made step by step. “Plans will only be executed one at a time,” he remarked.
The minister used the occasion to defend President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s policies, which have faced criticism for their impact on Nigerians. Idris emphasized that the president’s reform programs were designed to lead the country towards long-term prosperity. “The policies of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu are designed to take Nigeria on the path of enduring prosperity. All the reform programmes and initiatives of Mr. President have been well thought out, articulated, and well-formulated in the interest and for the benefit of all Nigerians,” he said.
He acknowledged the challenges of reforms but urged Nigerians to remain patient, asserting that the benefits would be clear by 2025. “We know that ultimately, these reforms will take us to the desired land. Nigeria will definitely turn the corner, and we are already beginning to see the signs of that,” Idris said.
Governor Mohammed Bago of Niger State also commended the minister for his contributions to the community’s development. During the event, Governor Bago donated over N12 million to various local groups, including women, youths, and vigilantes. He promised to upgrade the renovated primary school to a junior secondary school and build a new market to improve the community’s infrastructure.
The governor also reaffirmed his commitment to rural development, with plans to construct rural access roads and establish markets to facilitate the sale of agricultural produce.
The Etsu Nupe and Chairman of the Niger State Council of Traditional Rulers, Alhaji Yahaya Abubakar, also took the opportunity to urge elected officials to prioritize the development of their communities, emphasizing the importance of political leaders contributing to the progress of their constituencies.
