Nigeria’s Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, has disclosed that he has so far facilitated over 30 federal appointments for individuals from Niger State. Idris hails from the Power State.
Addressing a concern raised by a traditional ruler in his constituency, who claimed that the Minister had not secured any federal appointments for his constituents since assuming the ministerial role, Idris highlighted that he had successfully facilitated the appointment of Jibrin Baba Ndace as the Director General of the Voice of Nigeria, in addition to over 30 federal appointments for the state’s citizens since his tenure began.
Furthermore, Idris revealed that the construction of the Islamiyya School and mosque was intended to promote proper religious education, thereby fostering peace and unity within the communities.
He acknowledged that while the community has high expectations of him, projects would be implemented sequentially.
The Minister made this remark during the inauguration of several multimillion-naira projects he initiated in his hometown of Malagi, located in the Gbako Local Government Area of Niger State.
Other initiatives included the New Jumaat mosque, electrification and water supply projects, as well as an inspection of the renovated primary school in the area.
The minister also took the opportunity to promote President Tinubu’s initiatives, which have faced criticism from many Nigerians for allegedly imposing significant hardships on the populace.
“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 irrespective of wherever they come from.
“The progressive train of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu will not leave anybody behind, and we urge all Nigerians to support Mr. President.
“Of course, we know that times are a bit challenging. Nowhere in the world are reforms easy and cheap. Reforms are very difficult for the people who are formulating it and are difficult for people who are also enduring it. But we know, ultimately, they will take us to the desired land.
“Nigeria will definitely turn the corner, and we are already beginning to see the signs of that. Our economy is going to turn around. So, let Nigerians give Mr. President a chance, and by this time next year, 2025 is a year of consolidation for the gains of all the economic reforms that Mr. President has instituted. By 2025, we will see them all come to manifest,” he assured the gathering.
Niger State Governor Mohammed Bago expressed his appreciation to the minister for his significant contributions to community development.
He generously donated over ₦12 million to various local groups, including women, youth, vigilante organizations, district heads, and others.
The governor also pledged to transform the recently renovated primary school into a model junior secondary school and to construct a market for the community, emphasizing the state government’s dedication to improving the living standards of its residents.
Furthermore, he reiterated his commitment to rural development by focusing on the construction of access roads and the establishment of rural markets to facilitate the sale of agricultural products.
Alhaji Yahaya Abubakar, the Etsu Nupe and Chairman of the Niger State Council of Traditional Rulers urged elected officials to participate in the development of their communities actively.