The Niger State Governor, Umar Bago, has revealed that 75 per cent of the Federal Capital Territory’s (FCT) landmass was originally part of Niger State, yet communities surrounding the FCT have remained largely underdeveloped and resemble slums.
Speaking at the inauguration of the Niger State Development Forum (NSDF) in Abuja on Wednesday, Bago called for development in areas adjacent to the FCT.
“75 percent of the FCT was carved out of Niger State, however, most parts of Niger State that are adjourned to the FCT are slums. We have been bold in the last few months to revoke all the lands around the Zuma Rock to create a new city, and by May 29 (2025), there is going to be a groundbreaking of the new Government House annex behind the Zuma Rock,” he said.
The governor also announced that the state government has secured strategic partnerships to develop 50,000 hectares of land across the Suleja and Tafa corridors into a model city designed to rival some highbrow districts in the FCT.
The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, who was inaugurated as Chairman of the Board of the NSDF, praised the pioneer Chairman, Ambassador Zubairu Dada, for his dedication and wisdom in leading the organization.
Idris pledged to leverage the intellectual and professional capacities of Niger State indigenes to support Governor Bago’s development efforts, emphasizing the importance of peace and security in driving national development.
He added that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is committed to ensuring peace and security as essential foundations for national development.
“Let me take this opportunity to underscore the critical nexus between development, peace, security, and infrastructure. These elements are not just interconnected – they are mutually reinforcing.
“No meaningful development can take place in the absence of peace and security, and conversely, the dividends of development often catalyze peace and stability.
“This is a reality well understood by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, whose administration is investing heavily in these key sectors as part of a holistic strategy to transform our nation.
“Mr. President has made it clear that security is not optional; it is the bedrock upon which all other aspects of national progress must rest. That is why, under his leadership, the Federal Government is sparing no effort, no resource, and no commitment in strengthening our national security architecture. The aim is clear: to create a safe and conducive environment where communities can thrive, businesses can flourish, and development can take firm root,” he said.
