Governor Mohammad Umaru Bago has unveiled an ambitious plan to generate N2.3 trillion in yearly revenue for Niger State through a transformative agricultural revolution designed to reposition farming as a major economic driver.
Speaking at the 12th Quadrennial National Delegates Conference of the Nigeria Union of Pensioners (NUP) in Kano, Governor Bago emphasized that his administration’s agricultural agenda goes beyond subsistence farming and household food supply.
He described it as “an economic agricultural reform that would turn Niger State into one of the highest revenue-generating states in the country.”
Governor Bago, alongside his Kano State counterpart, Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf, received a special award from the NUP as pensioners-friendly governors, recognizing their efforts in promoting the welfare of senior citizens.
Expressing gratitude, Bago said the award strengthens his resolve to prioritize pension administration in the state.
He announced plans to establish a dedicated farm for pensioners, enabling them to participate in modern agriculture and maintain sustainable livelihoods.
“I also intend to make pensioners farmer-dependent people in my state,” he said.
As part of immediate support, Governor Bago donated N100 million as a lifeline to pensioners during the event.
He also highlighted Niger State’s ongoing agricultural interventions, including the distribution of tractors and targeted empowerment programs for youth and women.
On his part, Governor Yusuf represented by Deputy Governor Comrade Abdussalam Gwarzo welcomed delegates and reaffirmed Kano State’s commitment to senior citizens’ welfare.
He disclosed that the administration has cleared over N16 billion in retirement benefits, easing long-standing pension challenges.
President of the NUP, Mazi Godwin Abumisi, stated that the awards recognized significant contributions by state governments to the wellbeing of retired citizens, noting that payment of pensions and gratuities has alleviated economic hardship among the elderly.
Furthermore, Chairman of the Nigeria Labour Congress, Mr. Joe Ajero, represented by Comrade Kabiru Ado Minjibir, described the conference as timely and urged participants to sustain momentum in advancing the rights and welfare of senior citizens.
