By Mercy Peter
The Federal Government has charged the government and the people of Niger state to see the 50th anniversary of the state not only as a moment of reflection but as a call to deliberate action toward inclusive growth and sustainable transformation.
Niger State, popularly known as The Power State was created in 1976 alongside Imo, Benue, Ogun, Ondo and Osun states.
The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris in a statement to commemorate the anniversary said the celebration goes beyond the passage of time, marking instead the collective journey, achievements, challenges and future promise of the state and its people.
He congratulated the State on its golden jubilee, describing the 50-year milestone as a testament to resilience, shared sacrifice and the enduring hope of a people committed to progress.
As the country’s largest state by landmass, it contributes a significant portion of the territory that constitutes the Federal Capital Territory and is endowed with vast arable land and critical hydroelectric assets.
The Minister noted that facilities such as the Kainji, Jebba and Shiroro Dams remain central to Nigeria’s energy supply, supporting industrial growth, agriculture and livelihoods across the country.
Idris observed that Niger State has sustained democratic governance through changing times, stressing that the 50th anniversary should serve not only as a moment of reflection but as a call to deliberate action toward inclusive growth and sustainable transformation.
He said the political delineation into Niger East, Niger North and Niger South underscores the importance of unity, responsible leadership and cultural integration, supported by coherent policies and strategic alignment of capital and value chains capable of unlocking the state’s full economic potential.
“The journey toward a truly united and prosperous Niger State is ongoing,” the Minister said, adding that under the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, concerted efforts are being made to revitalise the economy nationwide, with Niger State benefitting from the administration’s vision for growth, infrastructure renewal and institutional reform.
Idris urged stakeholders to confront present realities by strengthening institutions and recommitting to governance that delivers tangible value to citizens.
He also paid tribute to the founding fathers of the state and the patriots who laid the foundations of constitutional democracy and stability five decades ago.
As Niger State marks its 50th anniversary, the Minister described the moment as defining, calling on Nigerlites to embrace a shared narrative of hope, responsibility and unity in building a future worthy of the state’s potential.
He further appealed to residents of the state to support the Executive Governor of Niger State, His Excellency Umaru Mohammed Bago, in advancing the growth and development agenda of the state.
“At 50, Niger State stands at a crossroads,” Idris said. “By renewing our commitment today, we can ensure that when a century is celebrated, it will be as a state that fulfilled its promise to its people.”
