Niger State Governor, Mohammed Bago, has acknowledged that his administration made a miscalculation in securing a ₦1 trillion loan for infrastructure development.
The loan, obtained in 2023, was intended to modernize roads, bridges, and other public utilities, with a strong focus on rural areas. However, mounting concerns over the state’s financial burden and delays in project execution have sparked renewed scrutiny.
Speaking during a meeting with contractors handling various state projects, Governor Bago admitted that taking on such a massive loan may not have been the best financial decision.
“If I had known, I would have just taken ₦500 billion because the cost of ₦1 trillion is heavier on me,” he stated.
Governor Bago has expressed frustration over the slow progress of infrastructure projects in Niger State, despite the availability of funds.
He revealed that less than half of the ₦1 trillion loan allocated for development had been utilized, raising concerns about potential financial strain if the situation persists.
Issuing a stern warning to contractors, Governor Bago demanded an acceleration of work and set a strict April 2025 deadline for project completion.
“So you want me to come up and tell you to do it? You have to do it in two weeks,” he charged.
Bago acknowledged progress on certain road projects, including the Paiko-Lapai road, but cautioned that underperforming contractors could face exclusion from future state projects if they fail to meet expectations.
“If you don’t perform by April, I will give the project to someone else. I am serious,” the governor warned.
He reiterated his administration’s dedication to infrastructure development, announcing that Phase 2 of the Urban-Rural Renewal Project is set to begin in 2027.
However, amid growing delays and financial concerns, uncertainty looms over the timely completion of ongoing projects, raising doubts about whether the state can meet its current construction targets.
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