Niger State Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago has issued a stern warning to residents of Bida town against land grabbers and speculators, urging vigilance as the government rolls out an ambitious development plan for the area.
The governor made these remarks during the unveiling of the New Bida Development Plan at a town hall meeting organized by the Ministry for Lands and Survey in collaboration with the New Niger Development Project.
"I encourage community members to plant economic trees to improve land values, especially when it comes to compensation," Governor Bago advised, addressing concerns about property rights in the face of the new development initiatives.
The governor provided assurances that the state government would fairly compensate all property owners affected by the development project. "We will not collect anyone's land without due compensation," he emphasized, calling for patience and support from the community.
According to Bago, the development plan will be implemented in phases, with a 20-year short-term strategy and a more comprehensive 50-year long-term vision. Despite acknowledging limited financial resources, the governor expressed optimism about Niger State's future development trajectory.
The Etsu Nupe, Alhaji Yahaya Abubakar, also addressed the gathering, working to dispel community fears regarding land acquisition. The traditional ruler called for cooperation with the government's efforts to develop Bida town, emphasizing the long-term benefits for residents.
Maurice Magaji, Commissioner for Lands and Survey, described the development plan as "a defining moment for Bida's transformation" that would create an economically vibrant city with foundations for sustainable growth and environmental resilience.
The New Bida Development Plan represents a significant step in Governor Bago's broader vision for modernizing Niger State's urban centers while protecting the rights of property owners and ensuring sustainable development practices.
