Members of the Progressive Governors’ Forum, PGF, led by its Chairman, Governor of Imo State Hope Uzodinma, paid a solidarity visit to the Niger State Governor, Mohammed Umar Bago, at the Government House in Minna.
The visit followed recent disasters in Niger State, including floods, boat mishaps, tanker accidents, and security challenges, which have resulted in the loss of several lives and the displacement of residents.
Uzodinma noted that the incidents called for collaborative efforts between the government and stakeholders to put in place measures to mitigate such disasters. He described Governor Umar Bago as energetic and capable, expressing confidence that he would deliver if adequately supported.
Governor Uzodinma also stated that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has strengthened the nation’s security architecture while emphasising the need to adopt traditional methods of combating insecurity with the support of traditional institutions.
“Our visit is to console our colleague and the people of Niger State over the various tragedies that happened in the state, ranging from flooding, tanker explosions, and boat mishaps to security challenges, among others.
“The cardinal principle and practice of the forum is to showcase and encourage what binds us rather than what divides us, because an injury to one is an injury to all,” he said.
In his response, the Niger State governor, Mohammed Umar Bago, acknowledged that the state has faced numerous challenges in recent times. He thanked President Tinubu, security agencies, top government officials, traditional rulers, and religious leaders, among others, for their continued support.
Bago expressed gratitude to the forum for the visit, describing it as historic and a demonstration of unity and solidarity within the group.
The Secretary to the State Government, Alhaji Abubakar Usman, described the visit as a show of brotherhood and compassion, reflecting the spirit of the All Progressives Congress, APC, and President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope agenda.
Also, the Etsu Nupe and chairman of the Niger State Council of Traditional Rulers, Alhaji Yahaya Abubakar, thanked the forum for the visit, saying it would further strengthen the bond of love and unity.
He assured the delegation of the traditional institutions’ unwavering support for the success of the present administration.
PGF members who were part of the delegation included Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos, Biodun Oyebanji of Ekiti, Sheriff Oborevwori of Delta, Francis Nwifuru of Ebonyi, and Ahmed Usman Ododo of Kogi.
Others were the deputy governors of Kebbi, Jigawa and Sokoto, respectively, Abubakar Umar Argungu, Aminu Usman and Idris Mohammed Gobir.
