Governor Mohammed Umar-Bago of Niger State has inaugurated a 20-year short-term development plan for the ‘New Bida Town’.
Umar-Bago explained that the plan aims to strategically modernise the city in line with his administration’s vision of ‘Urban Renewal Development’ across the state.

He disclosed this at a Town Hall meeting and stakeholders’ engagement on the ‘New Bida 20-Year Development Plan’, organised by the Ministry of Lands and Survey in collaboration with the New Niger Development Project, held in Bida on Sunday.

The governor described the plan as a short-term strategy designed to accelerate development and stimulate socio-economic activities in the town.

Speaking on the proposed 44km Ring Road dual carriageway, intended to divert traffic, Umar-Bago said a new city would emerge.

He added that social amenities and a 100-megawatt solar farm would be provided for residents.

“With thousands of articulated vehicles passing through Bida, bringing numerous negative consequences, the construction of the ring road with a 1km setback on each side is essential for the health, safety, and prosperity of the town,” he said.

Umar-Bago further explained that the development would be implemented in phases, comprising a 20-year short-term plan and a 50-year long-term plan.

He noted that over three million trailers passing through the area monthly could generate N3 billion in revenue, a resource yet to be tapped.

The governor pledged to ensure the state’s rapid development despite financial constraints.

“Niger State Government has no intention to seize or grab land; we aim to establish proper layouts.

“Wherever a house or farm falls within the right-of-way, owners will be adequately compensated.

“The relevant MDAs will engage with affected persons, and I urge them not to take the law into their own hands,” he stressed.

He appealed to the public for understanding and support, reiterating that the government is not confiscating anyone’s land.

“However, owners of properties affected by the project will receive due compensation,” Umar-Bago vowed.

He also warned community members to be cautious of land grabbers.

In his remarks, the Etsu Nupe and Chairman of the Niger Council of Traditional Rulers, Alhaji Yahaya Abubakar, called on residents to cooperate with the government’s efforts to develop Bida and its environs.

“This will secure a prosperous future for generations to come. The road construction will save lives and open avenues for greater economic growth,” he said.

Abubakar noted that the initiative comes at a crucial time when Nigerians face economic hardship and poor road infrastructure.

He praised Umar-Bago’s developmental efforts in the Emirate and the state.

The traditional ruler urged the people to pray fervently for the governor’s wisdom, good health, and ability to deliver meaningful progress.

He also encouraged citizens to be law-abiding, respect authorities, and live peacefully regardless of ethnic or religious differences.

The Commissioner for Lands and Survey, Mrs Maurice Magaji, described the event as a defining moment and a collective commitment to transforming Bida into an economically vibrant city.

She added that the plan provides a framework for sustainable growth and environmental resilience.

Retired Major-General Mohammed Garba, an APC stalwart, and Professor Muhammad Kutea-Yahaya, Pro-Chancellor of Abdulkadir Kure University, Minna, among other stakeholders, also spoke at the event.

They commended the governor’s developmental strides and called on the public to support him in realising his vision.