Niger State Government to Develop 5,000 Hectares of Land from Tagwai Dam to Shakwatu Communities to Boost Socio-Economic Activities
By Abdulkadir Yahaya, Minna
The Niger State Government plans to develop 5,000 hectares of land stretching from Tagwai in the Bosso Local Government Area to Shakwatu in the Shiroro Local Government Area, all within the Minna Emirate, to promote socio-economic activities.
Farmer Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago announced this initiative during a meeting with relevant stakeholders from the Emirate at Tagwai Dam. He explained that the development would include establishing a free trade zone. Notably, Dangote and BUA Companies will each receive 200 hectares of land to set up factories within this zone, aiming to accelerate development and create employment opportunities for residents.
Governor Bago emphasized that the State Government is making deliberate efforts to leverage the resources of the Tagwai Dam to drive substantial development in Tagwai, Shakwatu, and surrounding communities. In addition, he disclosed plans to construct farm estates and greenhouses and implement a drip irrigation farming system. Essential social amenities such as roads, schools, and hospitals will also be provided for the residents.
Furthermore, the communities will benefit from a $2.5 billion livestock investment initiative. Governor Bago urged community members to cooperate with the State Government by allowing contractors to carry out their projects without obstruction, assuring them that compensation would be paid to those affected.
He encouraged residents to communicate their concerns to the government through the Minna Emirate and reassured them that his administration prioritizes the welfare of its citizens.
The Emir of Minna, Alhaji Umar Faruk Bahago, praised Governor Bago for his visionary approach to improving the lives of the people in Tagwai, Shakwatu, and other rural communities. He promised the Emirate’s continued support for the governor’s policies and encouraged the population to remain law-abiding.
The Commissioner for Agriculture, Muhammad Musa Bosso, described Governor Bago as a dedicated leader and expressed that his visit to Tagwai Dam was a source of reassurance for the community.