By Suleiman Yakubu

On Tuesday, Niger State Deputy Governor Comrade Yakubu Garba, on behalf of the Governor, Farmer Mohammed Umar Bago, welcomed a military delegation led by Air Commodore Lazarus Solomon, Commandant of the 013 Quick Response Force, on a condolence visit at his official residence in Minna.
Deputy Governor Garba expressed gratitude for the military's support in combating insecurity, which has led to relative peace in troubled areas of the state. However, he highlighted a setback caused by the withdrawal of military presence around the Alawa axis in Shiroro Local Government. As the farming season approaches, he appealed to the military to reconsider resuming operations in the area to safeguard food security.
Acknowledging the importance of the military's role in countering banditry, the Deputy Governor emphasised the cordial relationship between the state government and the armed forces.
In a poignant moment, Comrade Yakubu reflected on the recent loss of his wife, Hajiya Zaynab Yakubu Garba. He accepted her passing as part of Allah's plan and urged prayers for her peaceful rest. "She is not lost," he said, "but missed for reasons we cannot fully comprehend."
Air Commodore Lazarus Solomon conveyed condolences on behalf of the military. He recognised the pain caused by her death and assured the Deputy Governor of their shared commitment. The military's close relationship with the Deputy Governor during security engagements reinforced their solidarity during this trial.
As the delegation departed, prayers were offered for the peaceful reposition of Hajiya Zaynab Yakubu Garba's soul. Meanwhile, Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) stakeholders from Shiroro local government area also visited the Deputy Governor to express their condolences.

By Suleiman Yakubu

Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago, a champion of agricultural development, received the coveted Public Service Award on Agriculture and Food Security during the Nigeria Excellence Awards in Public Service (NEAPS). The ceremony, organised by The Best Strategic (TBS) Media in collaboration with the office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, took place at the State House Banquet Hall in Abuja.
In his acceptance speech, Governor Bago emphasised that the award served as a catalyst for further progress. He attributed the recognition to deliberate efforts by his administration to revolutionise agriculture in the state. His vision extends beyond mere accolades; it aims to benefit the people of Niger State.
The agricultural transformation spearheaded by Governor Bago encompasses comprehensive plans, including storage facilities, to minimise post-harvest losses. Notably, the state will soon have a million tonnes of renewable energy storage capacity, complemented by 500 40-foot containers provided by the Dangote Group for farm estates.
Infrastructure development is another cornerstone of Governor Bago's administration. With an unprecedented commitment, his team has embarked on approximately 1,000 kilometres of road projects across the state. These efforts underscore the governor's dedication to improving connectivity and accessibility for Nigerlites.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, represented by Vice President Kashim Shettima, urged public servants to uphold their responsibilities, emphasising that public institutions are not personal enterprises. The president reaffirmed his commitment to merit-based recognition and motivation for all dedicated public servants.
Sen. George Akume, Secretary to the Government of the Federation, highlighted the rigorous selection process for NEAPS awardees, emphasising verifiable facts and figures. The award recognises purposeful leadership, innovation, and hard work across the government and private sectors.
Government officials, lawmakers, family members, and well-wishers lauded Governor Bago's well-deserved honor. They praised his policies, tireless efforts, and commitment to ensuring food security through the agricultural revolution.
In addition to Governor Bago, Senator Sani Musa, representing Niger East Senatorial District, received an award for constituency empowerment. The event celebrated a total of 42 outstanding personalities across various categories.
Eminent figures, including the Etsu Nupe and Chairman of the Niger State Council of Traditional Rulers, Alh. Yahaya Abubakar, and the Etsu Agaie, Alh. Yusuf Nuhu, graced the occasion, reinforcing their support for the governor's administration.