Niger State Tackles Communal Crises, Boosts Revenue, and Empowers Youths
The Niger State Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Mu’azu Hamidu Jantabo, has shed light on the governor’s deliberate efforts to address communal crises and promote economic growth.
He stated this in an interview with newsmen saying the State Ministry for Nomadic Affairs was established to tackle farmer-herder clashes, leveraging the governor’s policy to foster collaboration among Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs).
Jantabo said this includes, working closely with the Ministry for Normadic and Homeland Security, as well as other security agencies.
To increase internal revenue, the Commissioner said the state’s Local Harmonised Revenue Law was signed by the previous administration.
He said that the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) collaborates with the ministry to ensure effective revenue generation, addressing the lack of instruments for maximum revenue collection in some local governments.
He disclosed that a recent stakeholders’ meeting saw the governor directing political appointees to engage with their communities, understanding their needs and gathering input which informs the government’s development projects.
He added that the ministry has collaborated with the Ministry for Water Resources and Primary Healthcare, leading to the governor’s flag-off of construction of 100 primary healthcare facilities across the state, with 20 already underway.
To promote economic growth and job creation, Jantabo noted that local governments are encouraged to provide budgetary provisions for women and youths empowerment.
“By 2025, activities related to women and youths empowerment are expected to gain momentum.
According to him, rhe ministry ensures institutional-based aspects for local government functionality, establishing strong collaboration with MDAs and stakeholders.
The Commissioner said the present administration has strengthened local government audit, inspectorial departments as well as works closely with the state house of assembly.
He reaffirmed his commitment to resolving staff concerns and prioritizing staff welfare, Wmwith these initiatives, Niger State is poised for growth and development.
