Niger govt restates commitment to tackle communal clashes, boosts revenue

The Niger State Government has reaffirmed its commitment to addressing communal crises and promoting economic growth under the leadership of Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago.

During an interactive session with newsmen at the State Secretariat in Tunga, Minna, the Hon. Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Hon. Muazu Hamidu Jantabo, outlined the administration’s strategies to tackle these issues.

Jantabo emphasized the establishment of the State Ministry for Nomadic Affairs, aimed at addressing the ongoing farmers-herders clashes by fostering collaboration among various Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs).

He noted the ministry’s efforts to work closely with the Ministry for Nomadic and Homeland Security and other security agencies to enhance communal peace.

The Commissioner also highlighted the importance of increasing the state’s Internally Generated Revenue (IGR). He pointed out that the Local Harmonised Revenue Law, signed by former Governor Abubakar Sani Bello, aims to strengthen revenue generation.

He stated that the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) is collaborating with the ministry to address revenue collection inefficiencies in some local governments.

Jantabo revealed that recent stakeholders’ meetings led to directives for political appointees to engage with their communities to better understand their needs, which will inform future developmental projects.

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He mentioned collaborations with the Ministries for Water Resources and Primary Healthcare, which resulted in the governor flagging off the construction of 100 primary healthcare facilities across the state, with 20 already in progress.

To boost economic growth and create jobs, local governments have been encouraged to allocate budgetary provisions for women’s and youth empowerment initiatives. Jantabo projected that activities related to these empowerments will gain momentum by 2025.

He further explained that the current APC-led administration has strengthened local government audits and inspectoral departments, working closely with the state House of Assembly.

Jantabo reaffirmed his commitment to addressing staff concerns and prioritizing welfare, asserting that these initiatives will position Niger State for significant growth and development.