Kebbi State Governor, Nasir Idris, has called on Nigerians to keep hope alive and remain united as the country celebrates its 66th Independence Anniversary. In an Independence Day message, Idris congratulated Nigerians and the people of Kebbi State, describing the anniversary as a period for national pride, sober reflection, and renewed hope. He emphasized the importance of honouring the sacrifices of the country's founding fathers and drawing strength from the resilience of citizens.
Idris highlighted his administration's achievements in Kebbi State, including the implementation of a N75,000 minimum wage, regular payment of salaries and pensions, and the clearance of over N10bn in gratuities, death benefits, and arrears. Recently, N2.11bn was released to settle entitlements involving 772 retirees and bereaved families. This move aims to improve the welfare of citizens and promote economic growth.
The governor also reported significant progress in the education sector, with over 2,000 schools constructed, renovated, and furnished, and 2,000 professional teachers recruited. Additionally, casualisation in the teaching profession has been ended. In the healthcare sector, 22 general hospitals, 179 primary healthcare centres, and 63 dispensaries have been revitalised, with over 2,200 health workers recruited to enhance healthcare services.
Idris listed several infrastructure projects underway in Kebbi State, including the dualisation of 88 roads, construction of a new State Secretariat, and an ultra-modern Central Motor Park. The government is also constructing over 300 kilometres of rural roads to connect farming communities with markets, while over 800 mass transit buses have been deployed to improve transportation.
On agriculture and livelihoods, Idris disclosed that Kebbi secured $45bn in African Development Bank financing for the Special Agro-Processing Zone in Argungu, with transformation centres in Kalgo and Zuru. The Kaura Cares Livelihood Programme has disbursed N100,000 each to 65,000 citizens, supported 3,200 persons with disabilities, and empowered women and youth entrepreneurs.
Idris further highlighted his administration's efforts to promote welfare and gender inclusion, including the distribution of 500 affordable houses to workers and the appointment of five female permanent secretaries. The government has invested over N30bn in security, while N15bn has been allocated to water supply and rural electrification projects. The maiden Kebbi Investors Forum attracted investment commitments valued at $4.1bn.
Idris called on Nigerians to make unity, peace, and patriotism the foundation of the country's next phase of development. He urged citizens to support development efforts and continue praying for the country's leaders, saying the challenges facing Nigeria could be overcome through unity, perseverance, responsible leadership, and collective commitment.
Key points
- Kebbi State Governor, Nasir Idris, urges Nigerians to remain united and hopeful as the country marks its 66th Independence Anniversary.
