Niger State Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago has taken a significant step in forming his administration's cabinet by forwarding the names of thirty commissioner nominees to the State House of Assembly for necessary screening and confirmation.
Constitutional Compliance and Selection Process
The governor's action, which occurred on 14 November 2025, follows the provisions of Section 192(2) of the 1999 Constitution (as amended), which mandates that gubernatorial commissioner appointments receive legislative approval. According to an official statement released by the Secretary to the State Government, Alhaji Abubakar Usman, the selection process involved extensive consultations across the state.
The nominees were chosen based on their individual merit, proven integrity, and demonstrated records of competence. Governor Bago emphasized that this careful selection reflects his administration's dedication to inclusive governance and effective service delivery under what he terms the New Niger agenda.
Comprehensive Representation and Next Steps
The thirty nominated individuals represent all twenty-five local government areas within Niger State, ensuring broad geographical representation in the state's executive council. Among the prominent nominees are:
- Muhammad Qasim Danjuma (Agaie)
- Barr. Mohammed Bello Agwara (Agwara)
- Dr. Hadiza Asabe Mohammed (Bida)
- Abdulrazaq Muazu Jakada (Borgu)
- Ladidi Bawa Bosso (Bosso)
- Prof. Muhammad Yakubu Auna (Magama)
- Hadiza Idris Kuta (Shiroro)
- Abdullahi Maje (Suleja)
- Obed Nana (Tafa)
- Bashir Mohammed Lokogoma (Wushishi)
Before assuming their official roles, all nominees must complete mandatory security checks and clearance procedures. Governor Bago has already extended congratulations to the nominees while charging them to remain steadfast and dedicated to the vision of transforming Niger State into a model of sustainable growth and responsible governance.
Solidarity Visit from Progressive Governors
In a related development, the Nigerian Progressives Governors Forum (PGF), led by its Chairman and Imo State Governor Senator Hope Uzodimma, paid a solidarity visit to Governor Bago in Minna. The visit aimed to console the governor and people of Niger State following recent disasters that resulted in significant loss of lives and property.
Governor Uzodimma explained that their delegation came to express sympathy over various tragedies including flooding incidents, tanker explosions, boat mishaps, and the displacement of numerous citizens. He emphasized the forum's principle that "an injury to one is an injury to all" and stressed the need for collaborative efforts between government and stakeholders to implement measures that would mitigate such disasters in the future.
The PGF chairman described Governor Bago as energetic and capable, expressing confidence in his leadership abilities when properly supported. Uzodimma also used the opportunity to commend President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for strengthening security architecture, pursuing infrastructure renewal, and demonstrating commitment to human capacity building.
