Nigeria’s Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, has described Niger State’s 50th anniversary as more than a milestone but a testament to resilience and shared sacrifice.
He called for unity, responsible leadership and renewed commitment to inclusive growth.
In a statement commemorating the anniversary, the Information Minister said the celebration was not only about the passage of time but about the collective journey of our people, our achievements, our struggles, and the promise that lies ahead.
According to Idris, Niger state popularly known as the Power State, is the largest state by landmass and hosts critical hydroelectric assets including the Kainji, Jebba and Shiroro dams.
“These assets are tied to our national development, powering industries, supporting agriculture, and sustaining livelihoods across the country. the state’s vast arable land and contribution to the geography of the Federal Capital Territory underscore its economic importance,” he said.
While acknowledging the state’s record of democratic governance over the decades, the Minister stressed that the golden jubilee should also serve as a moment of reflection and renewed purpose.
He said, “Today is not merely a moment to look back at how far we have come. It is a call to chart a more straightforward, more deliberate path toward inclusive growth and sustainable transformation.”
He noted that the political structure of Niger East, Niger North and Niger South highlights the need for unity anchored on: “Responsible leadership, cultural integration, coherent policies, and strategic alignment of capital and value chains capable of unlocking the state’s economic potential,” he noted.
Idris linked Niger State’s future prospects to the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Tinubu, noting that ongoing efforts to revitalise the national economy through infrastructure renewal and institutional reform were already benefiting the state.
“As we look forward, we must also confront the realities of our present, strengthen our institutions, and recommit to governance that delivers real value to the people,” he said.
While paying tribute to the founding fathers and patriots who laid the foundations of constitutional democracy and stability in the state, he described the 50th anniversary as a defining moment, urging Nigerians to embrace a shared narrative of hope, responsibility and unity.
“Let us renew our commitment to the future we seek to build, so that when we gather again to celebrate a century, we will do so as a state that fulfilled its promise to its people,” he said.
The minister also called on residents to support the administration of Governor Umaru Mohammed Bago in driving growth and development across the state.
Created in 1976 alongside Imo, Benue, Ogun, Ondo and Osun states, Niger State occupies a strategic place in Nigeria’s development.