In a statement signed by his Chief Press Secretary, Bologi Ibrahim, Niger State Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago, fondly known as the "Farmer Governor," has expressed that the prestigious Public Service award on Agriculture and Food Security, presented to him at the Nigeria Excellence Awards in Public Service (NEAPS), serves as a significant push to do more for the state's agricultural sector.
Governor Bago made these remarks during the award presentation organized by The Best Strategic (TBS) Media, in collaboration with the office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, held at the State House Banquet Hall, Abuja.
The governor highlighted that the award recognized his administration's deliberate efforts to transform agriculture in Niger State. He emphasized that the accolade is for the benefit of the people of Niger, reaffirming his commitment to achieving his vision for the state.
Describing his agricultural revolution as comprehensive, Governor Bago outlined plans for storage facilities to reduce post-harvest losses. He announced the provision of about a million tons of renewable energy storage facilities across the state, in addition to 500 of 40-foot containers that the Dangote Group will supply for farm estates.
In terms of infrastructure, particularly road projects, the governor noted that his administration has embarked on approximately 1,000 km of road construction across Niger State, describing these efforts as unprecedented.
At the event, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, represented by Vice President Kashim Shettima, urged public servants to meet expectations and remember that public institutions are not personal enterprises. The president reiterated his commitment to creating an environment where merit is rewarded and every public servant is motivated to give their best.
Senator George Akume, the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, explained that the awards recognize and celebrate innovations, purposeful leadership, and hard work among exceptional individuals and organizations in both government and private sectors. He assured that the selection process was based on verifiable facts and figures.
Government officials, state and federal lawmakers, family members, the Minister of State for Agriculture, and other well-wishers described Governor Bago's award as well-deserved, reflecting his effective policies, hard work, and commitment to ensuring food security through his agricultural revolution. They promised to continue supporting him for the success of his administration.
Additionally, Senator Sani Musa, representing Niger East Senatorial District, received an award for Constituency Empowerment. In total, 42 personalities were honored in various categories.
Eminent personalities, including the Etsu Nupe and Chairman of the Niger State Council of Traditional Rulers, Alh. Yahaya Abubakar, and the Etsu Agaie, Alh. Yusuf Nuhu, were in attendance at the event.
