The Niger State government has announced the disbursement of N822,000,000 million to the 274 wards in the three senatorial zone towards implementation of Ward Development Projects.
According to the State Ward Development Project Steering Committee, led by Commissioner for Rural and Community Development, Phallalu Bako Mohammed, each ward was given N3m to execute locally driven projects identified by community leaders and residents.
Mohammed made this disclosure during a sensitization tour of key traditional Emirate Councils of Suleja, Lapai, and Agaie, saying the visit will afford the committee opportunity to engage with traditional leaders and local stakeholders on the objectives and implementation strategy of the project.
“The project aims to empower communities to take ownership of their development priorities.
The committee will establish Ward and Local Government Development Committees, comprising representatives from traditional, religious, political, and civil society groups, to manage funds and supervise project execution, “he explained.
The Commissioner further assured that the steering committee would ensure transparency, community participation, and value for every kobo spent.
Responding, the Emir of Lapai, Agaie, and Suleja commended Governor Umaru Bago for reviving the ward development model, noting that true progress begins at the community level.
They urged local leaders to ensure proper implementation and monitoring of projects, with strict accountability measures to safeguard public resources.
The State Steering Committee comprises senior government officials, party leaders, and representatives of key Ministries, with Phallalu Bako Mohammed as Chairman and Dr. Yakubu Mohammed as Secretary.
The sensitization tour will continue across other emirates and local government areas in the coming days.
Furthermore, the Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Hon. Binta Mamman, stated that the ward development project will alleviate the suffering of women, who are the most vulnerable in society, by boosting productivity and socio-economic growth through functional infrastructure like boreholes, Primary Health Care centers, and schools.
