By correspondent in Minna.
In a major step toward curbing rural-urban migration and improving living conditions at the grassroots, the Niger State Government has approved the disbursement of ₦3 million to each of the 274 Ward Development Areas across the 25 Local Government Councils of the state.
Our correspondent reports that the initiative is aimes to support locally identified developmental projects that directly benefit rural communities.
The Commissioner for Rural and Community Development, Phallalu Bako Mohammed, announced this during a sensitization visit to the Emirs of Suleja, Lapai, and Agaie.
He was accompanied by members of the Ward Development Project Steering Committee.
According to the Commissioner, the visit was in line with Governor Umaru Bago’s renewed commitment to reviving the Ward Development Projects first introduced by former Governor, Dr. Mu’azu Babangida Aliyu, to fast-track development in rural areas.
“Each ward will receive ₦3 million to carry out locally driven projects identified by the people themselves, with input from their community leaders,” Mohammed explained.
He emphasized the need for active participation from traditional rulers and other local stakeholders, noting that inclusive governance is central to the success of the programme.
“This project is designed to empower rural communities to take ownership of their development needs,” he added.
The commissioner said to ensure transparency and community involvement, each Ward and Local Government Development Committee will comprise representatives of traditional rulers, religious leaders, political parties, and civil society organizations.
These committees,he added,will manage the funds and oversee project execution.
He assured the royal fathers that every ward will be carried along, and that the disbursed funds will be strictly monitored for proper use and tangible outcomes.
In their separate remarks, the Emir of Lapai, Alhaji Tafida Umaru Bago; the Emir of Agaie, Alhaji Yusuf Nuhu; and the Emir of Suleja, Mallam Awal Ibrahim (represented by Engineer Shuibu Gani), lauded the initiative.
They praised Governor Bago for reviving the grassroots development model initiated by former Governor Babangida Aliyu and urged local government leaders to ensure effective implementation and monitoring of the projects.
The traditional rulers affirmed that real progress begins at the community level and expressed optimism that the initiative would bring lasting improvements to rural life.
Edited by Dada Ahmed.
