By Rita Iliya
Minna, Dec. 18, 2025 (NAN) – In a clear directive setting the tone for his administration’s second term, Niger State Deputy Governor, Mr. Yakubu Garba, has laid out a foundational charter of expectations for the state’s newly inaugurated commissioners and local government council chairmen. The charge, centered on unwavering loyalty and effective governance, is a critical step in operationalizing the government’s overarching “New Niger Agenda.”
The Deputy Governor’s message, delivered via a statement from his Chief Press Secretary, Ummikhaltume Kuta, moves beyond ceremonial welcome to establish a concrete framework for performance.
Loyalty as a Strategic Imperative, Not Just Obedience
Garba’s emphasis on loyalty is framed not as blind allegiance, but as a committed partnership essential for achieving complex state-wide objectives. The “New Niger Agenda” likely encompasses developmental priorities in sectors like agriculture, security, and infrastructure. For such an agenda to succeed, Garba stressed that all appointees must be “supportive in [its] actualisation,” indicating a need for coordinated action and a unified front, preventing policy fragmentation or public discord that could derail progress.
The Pillars of Good Governance: A Deeper Dive
The Deputy Governor’s call to “promote good governance, unity, progress and development” serves as a four-part mandate for the officials:
- Good Governance: This implies transparency, accountability in the use of public funds, and responsive service delivery to citizens.
- Unity: This is a caution against ethnic or political factionalism within the government, urging officials to work as a cohesive team for the entire state.
- Progress & Development: This is the tangible output expected—visible projects and policies that improve the quality of life and economic prospects for residents.
Operational Conduct: Maturity, Wisdom, and Respect
Garba provided specific behavioral guidance, urging officials to act with “maturity, wisdom and respect for the state leadership.” This is a practical admonition to manage the complexities of public office—navigating community interests, bureaucratic challenges, and political dynamics—without public controversy or insubordination that could undermine the administration’s authority and public trust.
Explicit Warnings: Resources, Conflict, and External Influence
The statement included pointed warnings that translate principles into stark realities:
- Against Resource Diversion: The warning against “diversion of government resources” is a direct reference to the menace of corruption and mismanagement of public funds, which cripples development projects.
- Against Unnecessary Conflict: Internal squabbles or public clashes between officials waste energy, create instability, and erode citizen confidence.
- Against External Influence: This critical caution advises officials to resist being “misled” by external pressures—whether from powerful private interests, political godfathers, or other groups seeking to sway government decisions for personal gain over public good.
Conclusion: A Mandate for Service
Concluding with a prayer for divine wisdom and guidance, the Deputy Governor’s charge ultimately frames these roles as a solemn responsibility. The effectiveness of these commissioners and chairmen in piloting their ministries and councils will be the true test of this charter, determining how successfully the “New Niger Agenda” moves from rhetoric to reality for the people of Niger State.
(NAN) (www.nannews.ng)
RIS/BEN/IU
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Edited by Benson Ezugwu / Isaac Ukpoju
