Gov. Nasir assures consultation with stakeholders, before embarking on projects

By Abdullahi Faruk Birnin Kebbi

Gov. Nasir Idris of Kebbi has assured that he would consult with tradition rulers and major stakeholders in the state before awarding any contract to avoid misplacement of priority.

He made the disclosure when he received the Emir of Zuru, retired Maj-Gen. Muhammad Sani-Sami on a courtesy visit at Government House, Birnin Kebbi.

The governor said: “We will consult with traditional rulers before embacking on any project to avoid misplacement of priority in project execution and we want to run an open door policy that will carry all manner of people along.

“We want to execute projects that have direct bearing with people. We don’t want a situation where Government will execute a project that is not the priority of people.

“Everybody knew that Zuru are not lazy people, they are brave people who always stand on their feet. Farming remained one of their major sources of income but security challenges is dragging the business backward.

“We will do everything possible to restore peace in the land,” he assured.

He restated the commitment of the present administration to tackle the issues of insecurity head-on, particularly in Zuru emirate, to enable people not only go back to their farms but also comfortably sleep with their two eyes close.

Idris assured people of the state that his administration would not victimise anybody for not supporting his gubernatorial ambition during the 2023 general elections.

He said: “Despite the fact that you stood firm to ensure our victory as a leader, yet, we knew some people refused to vote for us. However, being a teacher, I have forgiven everybody including those who voted for us and those who didn’t vote for us.

“Everybody should come forward and contribute his quota on ways to move our people and our dear state forward. I have made some promises in your emirate and by the grace of God Almighty we are going fulfil these promises.”

While appreciating the Emir for the visit, the governor noted with satisfaction that the monarch was the first traditional ruler in the state to personally pay a congratulatory visit on him.

Earlier Speaking, the Emir told the governor that they were in Government House not only for a congratulatory visit but also to re-afirm their solidarity, loyalty and support to the new administration.

The monarch expressed optimism that as a technocrat and a seasoned unionist, he had no doubt that the governor would bring positive changes to the state.

He said: “We believe you will bring to bear your experiences and leadership to build a better and more prosperous Kebbi State to put endless smile on the faces of people of Kebbi given your track records of achievements.

“We hope the issue of insecurity in Zuru emirate, lack of good roads and other infrastructure will be among your priorities when you settle down. The current security situation on the area has been so alarming, our farmers are being chased out of their farmlands.”

The Emir lamented that over 19,000 households had been impoverished and displaced by banditry, which pissed threat and continues decline in agricultural production and businesses in the state.