Governor Bago Launches 20-Year Development Plan for Bida Town
BIDA, NIGER STATE – In a significant step toward urban renewal, Niger State Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago has unveiled a comprehensive 20-year development plan for Bida town, aimed at modernizing the area and boosting socio-economic growth.
Governor Bago, popularly known as the “farmer governor,” launched the plan during a town hall meeting and stakeholders’ engagement organised by the Ministry of Lands and Survey in collaboration with the New Niger Development Project.
Describing the initiative as a “short-term plan with long-term impact,” Governor Bago said the project will fast-track infrastructural development and stimulate economic activities in Bida. A major feature of the plan is a proposed 44-kilometre dual carriage ring road designed to divert traffic from the town centre and open up new urban expansion areas.
The Governor disclosed that the development would include the provision of key social amenities and a 100-megawatt solar farm to enhance energy supply in the region. He assured residents that no one’s land would be taken without fair compensation, urging public support and cooperation.
“The government is not grabbing anybody’s land. We will ensure that all affected property owners are duly compensated,” he emphasized, while cautioning the community to be vigilant against land grabbers.
In his remarks, the Etsu Nupe and Chairman of the Niger State Council of Traditional Rulers, Alhaji Yahaya Abubakar, commended the initiative and called on citizens to support the government’s efforts, noting that the project promises a better future for generations to come.
Commissioner for Lands and Survey, Barrister Maurice Magaji, described the launch as a defining moment for Bida. He said the plan outlines a roadmap for sustainable urban growth, economic vibrancy, and environmental resilience.
Highlights of the event included an enumeration and valuation session for compensation led by Alhaji Adamu Mohammed, a presentation on land use and infrastructure by Arc. Ramatu Teni Suleiman, and an overview of the development blueprint by Prof. Mohammed Bala Banki. Stakeholders also offered recommendations and expressed widespread support for the project.
