By Suleiman Yakubu

Niger State Government and Kingdom of Morocco have struck a partnership in areas of agricultural technology, health, education, energy and railway services.
The state governor, Mohammed Umar Bago who was at the Moroccan embassy today, said the partnership was necessary considering the fact that the Kingdom of Morocco has made significant advancements in agricultural technology and practices.
He noted that collaboration in this sector can help improve agricultural productivity, promote sustainable farming methods and enhance food security in the state.
The governor believed also that the partnership will help in the area of education and health, thereby promoting educational exchanges and cultural programmes to foster understanding, knowledge sharing and human capital development as well as share experiences in healthcare delivery, medical training and disease prevention.
"The strong foundation about to be created between Niger State and the Kingdom of Morocco would bring about a sustainable growth, knowledge sharing and improved quality of life for our respective populations", the governor said.
The Moroccan Ambassador to Nigeria, Moha Ou Ali Tagma, expressed delight for the visit and advocated the need for the governor and some key government officials to pay an official visit to the Kingdom of Morocco for first hand information about the development of various spheres of its economy.
He commended Governor Umaru Bago for his efforts and pledged the support of the Kingdom of Morocco to Niger State.

By Suleiman Yakubu

In its determination to construct quality roads, the Niger State Government has engaged a private consulting firm, BENIJ Nigeria Limited, to provide technical consultancy services for the construction of 556km of roads across 25 local government areas in the state.
Governor Umaru Bago, who decried the infrastructural deficit, especially roads, in the state, said his administration was poised to significantly turn around the situation for the good of the people.
He expressed optimism that the roads, when completed, will attract investors and make business easy for them.
The signing of the agreement, which took place at the Niger State Government Lodge, Abuja, was in line with the urban renewal policy of the administration.
The governor explained that engaging the services of the consulting firm was to ensure quality control and value for money, hence the engagement of the consulting firm.
He said more road projects were expected to be carried out, disclosing that this was the first phase of the projects.
The Lead Consultant, BENIJ Nigeria Limited, Olatunji Ajayi, reassured the state government of the much-needed expertise that will ensure quality is attained.
The consulting firm is to come up with a detailed design for the projects within five weeks.
The Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Works, Hassan Etsu, signed on behalf of the Niger State Government, while the Lead Consultant, BENIJ Nigeria Limited, Olatunji Ajayi, signed for the firm.