"Kebbi's Development is My Top Priority, Says Gov. Dr. Nasir"

By Umar Faruk, Birnin Kebbi 

Kebbi State Governor, Dr. Nasir Idris, has reaffirmed his commitment to the rapid socio-economic development of the state, vowing to reverse negative narratives about Kebbi. Speaking at the meeting of the Kebbi Elders Consultative Forum in Birnin Kebbi on Monday, Dr. Idris said, "I will, INSHA ALLAH, sustain this current trajectory of development to leave Kebbi State much better than I inherited it."

The Governor recalled the challenges he faced when he took over the affairs of the state in 2023, but expressed happiness that the situation has greatly improved. Dr. Idris lauded the foresight of the forum's leadership, maintaining that all indigenes of the state are active stakeholders in its development.

Dr. Nasir  highlighted his administration's achievements in various sectors, including education, health, agriculture, industrialization, water supply, and power supply. In education, he said his administration has improved the sector by rehabilitating and equipping 2,023 primary and secondary schools, constructing 243 new ones, and implementing the new national minimum wage for teachers.

"We have also recruited 2,000 new teachers, raised the retirement age of teachers from 60 to 65 years, and provided free education across the state," Dr. Idris said. "We pay tuition and registration fees for all students of Kebbi origin in tertiary institutions, and NECO and WAEC examination fees for Kebbi students."

The Governor also disclosed that his administration has spent billions of Naira on agricultural development, enhanced healthcare services, and attracted new foreign investors to the state. He mentioned a Chinese investor who plans to establish a Lithium Production Plant in Ngaski at a cost of $200 million, and another entrepreneur who will establish a cement factory worth $300 million.

Dr. Idris promised to continue working towards the development of the state, saying, "We will do this not minding whose ox is gored and to the dismay of the never-tiring doubting Thomases." He commended members of the forum for initiating discussions for the development of Kebbi State.

Also speaking, former Governor Sen. Adamu Aliero and elder statesman retired Gen. Ishaya Bamaiyi expressed happiness with the event and commended Dr. Idris's administration for its achievements.

The First Vice Chairman of the Forum, retired Justice Suleiman Muhammad Ambursa, outlined the forum's history and activities, commending Governor Nasir Idris for approving its resuscitation.