By Aideloje Ojo
Minna
Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago of Niger state has explained that parents and concerned citizens are anxiously waiting for the return of the recently abducted Catholic school children while restating the commitment of government to ensure their safety .
The Governor stated this Wednesday when he declared open 8-day retreat for commissioner designates and other political appointees including Permanent Secretaries in Minna, represented by the Deputy Governor, Comrade Yakubu Garba.
He said, “The unfortunate abduction of school children and teachers at St Mary’s Catholic School, Papiri in Agwara Local Government. This is highly condemnable and has left our state deeply worried. As the chief security officer of the state and a parent myself, I feel the pain of every mother and father anxiously waiting for the children to return home. Let me use this opportunity to assure you all that we are committed to the safety of the children and ensuring the security of lives and properties in the state”.
The Governor spoke against the backdrop of repeated assurances by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu that the abducted children will soon be released from captivity in safe conditions, adding that, ” I must speak from the heart on this matter that concerns us all”.
The Governor described the Executive Council as one of the strongest pillars of governance, adding that the state relies on its ability to deliver on policy formulations, implementation and monitoring.
“Therefore, the Commissioners and other members of the Council need to be given the requisite training and exposure for them to function optimally in executing Council decisions in their various Ministries. This executive retreat is not just another event on the government calendar. It is a moment of reflection, planning, and strategic alignment with renewed vigor for our shared commitment towards achieving the New Niger vision”, he explained.
He explained that the mandate entrusted on the administration by the good people of Niger State demands Servant-Leadership; characterized by competence, responsibility, honesty, teamwork and above all, results oriented.
“Let me emphasise this clearly: positions are responsibilities, therefore accountability is key. Public office is a trust, and our performance will be measured by visible progress in citizens’ daily lives, fostering a sense of responsibility and motivation. We must work assiduously as one family, united by a common goal — to build a prosperous New Niger”, he said.
