The Niger State government has announced the disbursement of N822 million to 274 wards across the state's three senatorial zones for the implementation of community-driven development projects.

According to Phallalu Bako Mohammed, Commissioner for Rural and Community Development and Chairman of the State Ward Development Project Steering Committee, each ward has been allocated N3 million to execute locally-identified projects determined by community leaders and residents.

The announcement was made during a sensitization tour of key traditional Emirate Councils including Suleja, Lapai, and Agaie. The tour aims to engage traditional leaders and local stakeholders on the objectives and implementation strategy of the initiative.

"The project aims to empower communities to take ownership of their development priorities," Mohammed explained. "The committee will establish Ward and Local Government Development Committees, comprising representatives from traditional, religious, political, and civil society groups, to manage funds and supervise project execution."

The Commissioner assured that the steering committee would prioritize transparency, community participation, and value for every kobo spent on the projects.

In their responses, the Emirs of Lapai, Agaie, and Suleja commended Governor Umaru Bago for reviving the ward development model, emphasizing that true progress begins at the community level. They urged local leaders to ensure proper implementation and monitoring of projects, with strict accountability measures to safeguard public resources.

The State Steering Committee, which includes senior government officials, party leaders, and representatives from key ministries, is chaired by Phallalu Bako Mohammed with Dr. Yakubu Mohammed serving as Secretary. The sensitization tour will continue across other emirates and local government areas in the coming days.

Hon. Binta Mamman, Commissioner for Information and Strategy, highlighted that the ward development project will particularly benefit women, who are often the most vulnerable in society. She noted that the initiative aims to boost productivity and socio-economic growth through the development of functional infrastructure such as boreholes, Primary Health Care centers, and schools.