The Niger State Government north central Nigeria, has reiterated its commitment to the infrastructure development agenda of the state, being implemented under the ongoing Urban Renewal Policy.
The Commissioner for Works, Alhaji Sulaiman Umar, alongside the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry, Alhaji Hassan Etsu, aasured newsmen in Minna that all infrastructure projects initiated by Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago since 2023 are progressing as planned.
According to them, some of the projects, particularly the 5km roads being constructed in each of the 25 local government areas, have been completed and are awaiting commissioning. Others, including the capital city renewal projects, have reached over 30 percent completion.
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“Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago remains fully committed to completing all ongoing infrastructure projects. Modalities for sustainable funding are already in place and are being carefully and strategically worked out to avoid delays,” they stated.
Mr Sulaiman explained that the slow work pace on some projects was due to the rainy season, which hampers construction activities, particularly road works that are better executed during dry months.
“Work has not stopped. What we are seeing is a strategic adjustment of operations due to the season,” he said.
Addressing public concerns over reports of contractors abandoning sites and laying off staff, the Commissioner clarified that such situations are normal within the construction industry during rainy seasons. He emphasised that any suspension of workers is temporary.
“The Governor has insisted that contractors prioritise local content in executing these projects. Therefore, there is no question of permanent job losses,” he added.
He reassured the public that disengaged workers have not been abandoned and will receive incentives from the contractors during the off-season. “All of them are expected to return to site when the dry season sets in,” he said.
For his part, the Permanent Secretary, Alhaji Hassan Etsu, appealed to residents to remain patient, supportive, and understanding, stressing that the government is committed to delivering the dividends of democracy across the state.