Governor of Niger State, Dr. Mohammed Bago, has officially handed over 500 hectares of land to Abuja Steel Mills Limited for the development of a large-scale Solar Farm and the AIG Industrial Park, a move expected to accelerate industrialisation, attract investments, and create thousands of jobs in the state.

The handover took place during a groundbreaking ceremony held in Sabon Wuse, Tafa Local Government Area, where government officials, investors, and industry stakeholders gathered to mark the commencement of the project.

Bago: Project Will Transform Niger State’s Economy

Speaking at the event, Governor Bago described the initiative as a landmark investment that would significantly reshape the economic and industrial landscape of Niger State.

According to him, the project reflects the state’s commitment to becoming a leading destination for investment and sustainable economic growth.

“What we are witnessing today is more than a ceremony. It is a clear declaration of our commitment to transforming Niger State into a preferred investment destination and building a New Niger that delivers opportunities for our people,” Bago said.

The governor noted that the project would leverage the state’s strategic advantages, including access to gas resources from the Ajaokuta-Kaduna-Kano (AKK) Pipeline, vast land resources, and existing power infrastructure.

He highlighted Niger State’s status as home to four major hydropower stations—Kainji, Jebba, Zungeru, and Shiroro Dams—which provide a strong foundation for industrial expansion and renewable energy development.

Bago also commended the management of Abuja Steel Mills and its parent company, African Industries Group (AIG), for choosing Niger State as the location for the ambitious project.

AIG Chairman Describes Land Allocation as Historic

The Group Chairman of African Industries Group, Raj Gupta, described the allocation of 500 hectares as a historic milestone that goes beyond industrial development.

According to Gupta, the project is designed to drive economic empowerment, community development, and employment generation.

“This is not just an opportunity to build industries and create jobs. It is about development, upliftment, and empowering people,” he stated.

He revealed that the proposed solar farm is expected to become the largest solar power installation in Sub-Saharan Africa, further positioning Nigeria as a major player in renewable energy and steel production.

“This project will put Nigeria not only on the global steel map but also on the renewable energy map,” Gupta added.

Power Minister Hails Bago’s Industrial Vision

Minister of Power, Joseph Tegbe, praised Governor Bago for demonstrating what he described as “industrial statesmanship” through the allocation of land for the project.

Tegbe said the initiative would serve as a lasting legacy by attracting significant private-sector investments and stimulating economic activities in Niger State.

“The most enduring legacy of governance is not just physical infrastructure but the industries, investments, and jobs created through strategic decisions,” he said.

The minister assured investors of the Federal Government’s commitment to addressing challenges within the power sector to support industrial growth nationwide.

Steel Development Minister Applauds Investment

Also speaking, Minister of Steel Development, Prince Shuaibu Abubakar, commended the governor’s foresight in making the land available for industrial use.

He praised Raj Gupta for transforming African Industries Group into one of the largest steel manufacturers in Nigeria and West Africa.

According to him, the company has grown from a small enterprise into a major industrial player employing over 10,000 workers and contributing significantly to Nigeria’s steel sector.

Abubakar expressed confidence that the solar farm and industrial park would revolutionise industrial development in Niger State while supporting President Bola Tinubu’s economic growth agenda.

Project Expected to Boost Jobs and Productivity

Minister of State for Industry, Trade and Investment, Senator John Enoh, described the project as a major catalyst for industrialisation and productivity.

He noted that the planned solar farm and industrial park would create new employment opportunities, reduce Nigeria’s dependence on imported industrial products, and strengthen local manufacturing capacity.

“The missing link in our economy is productivity. Projects like this create jobs, stimulate industrial growth, and reduce the nation’s import burden,” Enoh said.

The minister added that collaboration between government and private investors remains essential to unlocking Nigeria’s economic potential and driving sustainable development.

Industrial Hub Set to Drive Economic Growth

The 500-hectare allocation is expected to pave the way for the establishment of one of Nigeria’s largest renewable energy and industrial infrastructure projects.

Stakeholders believe the development will attract additional investments into Niger State, expand manufacturing activities, create thousands of direct and indirect jobs, and strengthen Nigeria’s position in both the steel and renewable energy sectors.

With construction activities set to commence, the Solar Farm and AIG Industrial Park are projected to become key drivers of industrial transformation and economic growth in the North-Central region and across Nigeria.

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A devastating windstorm has destroyed up to 1,200 houses across several communities in Niger State, leaving many residents displaced and properties severely damaged.

The Director-General of the Niger State Emergency Management Agency (NSEMA), Comrade Abdullahi Baba Arah, disclosed this while presenting a situation report on Thursday in Minna.

According to him, the windstorm affected six Local Government Areas of the state, including Mokwa, Bida, Lavun, Katcha, Gbako, and Mariga.

Arah explained that the agency had already commenced rapid assessment of the affected communities to determine the scale of destruction and humanitarian needs of victims.

“The Niger State Emergency Management Agency has commenced rapid assessment following a devastating windstorm disaster that affected several communities across Mokwa, Bida, and some other Local Government Areas of Niger State,” he said.

He added that preliminary findings showed that more than 1,000 houses were either destroyed or severely damaged in communities within Mokwa Local Government Area.

The affected areas in Mokwa include Sawmill, Kpege Wayata, Kpege, Station Girigi, Efu Shaba Lile, Tifin Madza, Yafu, Etisheshi, Hakimi Aliyu, and Nasfat communities.

In Bida Local Government Area, communities affected by the storm include Cheniyan, Nasarafu, Bariki, Kyari, Dokoza, Masaga A, and Masaga B.

Arah further disclosed that separate windstorm incidents were also recorded in Lavun, Katcha, Gbako, and Mariga LGAs.

He noted that more than 100 houses had earlier been reported destroyed in Durgu community under Bobi Ward in Mariga Local Government Area.

According to the NSEMA boss, the agency is working with relevant stakeholders and local government authorities to conduct detailed assessments and coordinate emergency response efforts.

He assured residents that additional updates would be provided as assessment operations continue across the affected communities.

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Terrorists bomb Niger bridge in Borgu Local Government Area of Niger State, targeting a key route used by troops. The attack disrupted military movement during ongoing counter-insurgency operations.

The explosion occurred around 2:00 a.m., according to local sources. The bridge connects Luma, Babana, and Agwara communities, areas that have faced repeated attacks in recent months.

Attack Disrupts Communities and Market Activities

The damaged bridge has cut off access to several communities. As a result, economic activities have slowed across the area.

Residents said the incident disrupted the popular Babana border market, which holds every Monday. Many traders could not reach the market due to the damaged route.

Police Confirm Terrorists Bomb Niger Bridge Using IED

The Niger State Police Command confirmed the attack. The spokesperson, SP Wasiu Abiodun, said the attackers used an Improvised Explosive Device (IED) to destroy the bridge.

He explained that the suspects likely operated from the Kainji National Park axis. According to him, the attack appears to target security operations in the area.

Police have since intensified clearance operations. In addition, officers continue to monitor the situation closely to prevent further attacks.

Rising Security Concerns in Niger State

The latest attacks highlight growing security challenges in parts of Niger State. Armed groups continue to target both infrastructure and civilians.

Therefore, residents are calling for stronger security presence to protect lives and critical routes.

The bridge bombing and deadly explosion signal an escalation in tactics by suspected terrorists. These attacks now target both military operations and civilian movement.

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The Federal Government and the Niger State Government have entered into a strategic partnership aimed at delivering large-scale housing developments integrated with agriculture and energy infrastructure, as part of broader efforts to address Nigeria’s housing deficit, rural instability and inclusive economic growth.

The agreement, formalised through a Memorandum of Understanding between the Niger State Government and the Ministry of Finance Incorporated, positions housing delivery as the anchor of a wider rural development framework aligned with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

Under the arrangement, Niger State will provide 100,000 hectares of land for a pilot phase that combines affordable residential housing with organised farming communities, basic infrastructure and renewable energy solutions. Officials say the model is designed to move beyond isolated housing estates by creating complete, liveable settlements that support productivity and long-term economic activity.

Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago said the initiative reflects a deliberate shift toward housing-centred development, particularly for rural and agrarian populations who have historically lacked access to secure and dignified accommodation.

“This programme recognises that housing is foundational,” Bago said. “When people have safe, permanent homes close to their livelihoods, everything else—security, productivity, health and education—improves.”

He explained that the settlements will allow farmers and rural workers to live within structured communities rather than temporary or dispersed housing, reducing exposure to insecurity and eliminating the need for long daily commutes to farmlands. According to him, the approach also helps curb rural–urban migration by making countryside living more viable and attractive.

The governor noted that Niger State’s land mass, water resources and mechanisation capacity provide a strong base for delivering housing at scale, adding that the project will be driven largely by private capital through an asset-backed financing structure.

“We are not waiting for annual budgets to build houses,” Bago said. “Land is our contribution, private capital will drive construction, and government will ensure speed, clarity of titles and enabling infrastructure.”

Minister of State for Finance, Dr Doris Uzoka-Anite, said the MoU reflects growing recognition at the federal level that Nigeria’s housing challenge cannot be separated from broader economic and social policy goals.

“Housing is not just about shelter,” she said. “It affects productivity, food systems, employment and social stability. When housing is planned alongside infrastructure and livelihoods, it delivers far greater impact.”

Uzoka-Anite explained that the Ministry of Finance Incorporated is central to structuring the initiative in a way that attracts private investors while safeguarding public assets. She said the financing framework blends public land with private funding to lower risk, ensure transparency and deliver housing that remains affordable for low- and middle-income earners.

She added that renewable energy solutions, particularly solar power, will be integrated into the housing developments to reduce household energy costs and support small-scale processing and storage activities within the communities.

Managing Director of the Ministry of Finance Incorporated, Dr Armstrong Takang, said the project reflects a shift away from fragmented housing schemes toward integrated settlement planning that links homes, infrastructure and economic activity.

“You cannot solve the housing deficit by building houses in isolation,” Takang said. “People need power, water, roads, schools and access to markets. This programme is about building complete communities that can sustain themselves.”

He said housing units will be delivered using cost-effective and alternative building technologies to keep prices within reach of rural residents and agricultural workers, while maintaining quality and durability. According to him, construction activity alone is expected to generate significant employment across building materials, logistics and local labour.

Takang added that each housing cluster will be supported by organised land use planning, healthcare facilities, schools and access roads, ensuring that residents are not cut off from essential services.

Beyond shelter, officials said the housing-led model is expected to stimulate job creation across construction, farming, agro-processing and energy services, while strengthening local economies and reducing pressure on urban centres.

As implementation begins, the federal and state governments said the project could serve as a blueprint for other states seeking to tackle housing shortages while driving rural development through private-sector participation.

“This is about delivering housing that supports livelihoods and dignity,” Bago said. “Not isolated estates, but communities where people can live, work and thrive.”

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In response to the recent surge in kidnappings and terrorist attacks in parts of North-Central and North-West Nigeria, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has issued decisive directives for a full security cordon over forests in Kwara, Kebbi, and parts of Niger State.

Chief Sunday Dare, the President’s Special Adviser on Media and Public Communication, announced on Tuesday via his verified X handle (@SundayDareSD) that the Nigerian Air Force has been tasked with expanding aerial surveillance “across the innermost parts of the forests” where criminal groups are believed to be hiding.

Under the new directive, the Air Force is to maintain uninterrupted 24-hour monitoring over the troubled zones, synchronizing operations with ground troops already deployed for rescue missions and counter-terrorism operations. The same operational intensity is being applied along the Kebbi–Niger corridor, where multiple ongoing rescue efforts are focused.

The measures come amid escalating insecurity, including the mass abduction of worshippers in Eruku, Kwara State, and violent attacks in parts of Kebbi and Niger, which have raised national concerns. While several victims have been rescued, security agencies continue to work to free others believed to be held deep inside forested areas.

President Tinubu, receiving continuous updates from frontline commanders, has insisted that all military and security formations adopt an “all-out, no-retreat posture” until every perpetrator is neutralized and abducted citizens are safely returned.

Communities in the affected states have also been urged to provide timely intelligence on unusual gatherings or suspicious activities to support the intensified operations. This directive complements recent security measures, including the withdrawal of police escorts from VIPs to reinforce community-level policing and earlier joint operations across the North.

Security analysts describe the new full-spectrum cordon as one of the federal government’s most aggressive responses to rural and peri-urban insecurity, signaling the administration’s commitment to restoring stability and sending a stern warning to armed groups terrorizing communities.

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At least 31 people have died and several others sustained injuries after a petrol tanker carrying Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) exploded along the Bida–Agaie highway in Niger State on Tuesday.

According to a statement by the State Police Public Relations Officer, Wasiu Abiodun, the accident occurred around 2:40 p.m. near Essa Village, Katcha Local Government Area.

Abiodun explained that the tanker, which was conveying fuel, fell by the roadside. Shortly after, residents trooped to the scene to scoop fuel when the vehicle suddenly caught fire.

“Forty-eight persons were affected by the fire. Among them, thirty-one lost their lives while others are receiving treatment in nearby hospitals. Three motorcycles were also burnt,” he said.

The police spokesperson added that officers and other security agencies were deployed to the scene for rescue operations, while investigations are ongoing to identify the tanker’s driver and owner.

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The Federal Government has officially launched the construction of Phase 2B of the access road to the Second Niger Bridge, a project expected to further ease transportation and boost economic activities across the South-East region. The groundbreaking ceremony took place at Ogbunike along the Enugu-Onitsha Expressway, with President Bola Tinubu represented by Anambra State Governor, Prof. Chukwuma Soludo.

Speaking at the event, President Tinubu described the bridge, commissioned in 2023, as a game-changer for interstate commuting but noted that its full benefits had been slowed by incomplete access roads. “This new phase will address the missing links by delivering a 17.5-kilometre dual carriageway with seven bridges and modern facilities, including security cameras to ensure safety along the corridor,” he said.

The Minister of Works, Dave Umahi, explained that funding for the project would follow a work-progress model, with 30 per cent of the contract sum already disbursed. He urged host communities to support the construction, warning against disruptions. “President Tinubu’s commitment to South-East development is clear, from key appointments in his government to projects like this one. This road will transform interstate travel, reduce traffic congestion, and stimulate trade across Anambra and Delta states,” Umahi said.

Governor Soludo commended the Federal Government’s efforts but stressed that the bridge would only be fully functional when the entire 35-kilometre access road is completed. He appealed to traditional rulers and youth leaders to cooperate with contractors to ensure timely delivery. “We must work together to prevent obstructions. This project is too important for our region’s growth to be delayed,” Soludo said.

The contractor, CGC Nigeria Limited, represented by General Manager Gius Cheng, assured stakeholders of timely and quality execution. He pledged that the project would meet international standards and deliver lasting value to the region.

The ceremony featured cultural prayers led by Igwe Awkuzu, the closest traditional ruler to the project site, invoking blessings for its successful completion.

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The Pharmacy Council of Nigeria (PCN) has sealed 486 drug outlets in Niger State following a statewide enforcement exercise aimed at curbing illegal pharmaceutical practices and safeguarding public health.

According to the council, the affected premises included 69 pharmacies, 127 patent medicine shops, and 290 unlicensed outlets. One individual was also apprehended for obstructing inspectors during the operation and will face prosecution.

Speaking on the development, the PCN enforcement head explained that the exercise covered nine Local Government Areas, where a total of 672 premises were inspected. “Our focus was to ensure that pharmaceutical practice in Niger State complies with professional ethics and standards. Unfortunately, many of the outlets were operating illegally and posing risks to public health,” he said.

He added that the violations discovered ranged from operating without licenses to selling controlled drugs without authorization and engaging in unapproved clinical practices. Some outlets were also found to be training apprentices without due approval. “These practices not only undermine the profession but also endanger the lives of unsuspecting Nigerians who depend on these outlets for healthcare services,” he stressed.

The enforcement head further urged the public to be cautious when purchasing medicines. “We advise citizens to always patronize licensed premises, which can be identified by the display of valid licences. This is the only way to guarantee that the medicines they receive are safe and effective,” he explained.

Residents of Niger were commended for their cooperation during the exercise, with the council noting that nationwide enforcement remains a critical strategy in the fight against substandard and falsified medicines.

“Our goal is simple: to protect lives by ensuring that medicines are dispensed only by qualified professionals in licensed premises. We will continue to extend this enforcement across the country until full compliance is achieved,” the PCN official emphasized.

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The official unveiling took place at the Lagos House in Alausa, Ikeja, where Sanwo-Olu was joined by several high-profile guests, including governors from five states and leaders from both the public and private sectors. Among those in attendance were Governors Dapo Abiodun (Ogun), Usman Ododo (Kogi), Umaru Bago (Niger), Agbu Kefas (Taraba), and the Deputy Governor of Ondo State, Olajide Owolabi. Ekiti State was represented by a delegate.

Speaking at the event, Sanwo-Olu emphasized that Lagos consumes more than half of the food traded across the Southwest, placing immense pressure on supply chains. He said the state’s food economy, valued at over N6 trillion, suffers a 50% loss in produce due to inadequate storage and inefficient transport logistics.

“It became clear that we must organise our food systems to feed our people well,” the governor stated. “With the ‘Produce for Lagos’ programme, we are directly addressing these gaps by enhancing logistics and connecting our dynamic food economy with producers across the country.”

The governor also introduced 150 Compressed Natural Gas (CNG)-powered 40-foot trucks under the Lagos Food Systems Infrastructure Company. These trucks, he said, are designed to transport food efficiently across the country and return without refueling—marking a major shift in agricultural logistics.

“This initiative is not just about today’s needs. It’s about building an ecosystem that meets future demands,” Sanwo-Olu added. “We are combining policy with infrastructure and financial models that will endure, ensuring food availability for future generations.”

The project is supported by various special purpose vehicles including the Lagos Bulk Trading Company and private logistics provider Ekolog.

Tony Elumelu, Chairman of the United Bank for Africa (UBA), pledged N25 billion in support of the initiative, stating, “The programme will help address unemployment, and UBA is fully committed to being a part of this transformational journey.”

Niger State Governor Umaru Bago also pledged his state’s support by offering 500,000 hectares of farmland exclusively for food production for Lagos.

“When I saw ‘Produce for Lagos,’ I said, no—I am farming for Lagos,” Bago remarked. “This is our way of creating value through partnership.”

The initiative also drew praise from the Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Bosun Tijani, who called the project “one of the most visionary food interventions” in recent times.

“This gives farmers value for their produce while ensuring the city builds a resilient food system. This is how we build the Lagos—and Nigeria—of the future,” Tijani noted.

The Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, echoed similar sentiments, commending the Lagos State Government for recognizing the link between food security and national stability. In a statement released through Defence Headquarters, he applauded the collaboration with private and state-level partners, calling it “a timely and strategic intervention.”

The initiative, aligns with the Lagos State Agriculture and Food Systems Roadmap of 2021 and signals a new era of collaborative governance in addressing Nigeria’s food challenges.

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At least 11 houses were affected. Although no lives were lost, many families have been displaced. Several businesses have also suffered major losses, with economic activities now disrupted in parts of the town.

The areas hit hardest include Kodogi/Nasarafatu Road, Federal Polytechnic Road, and the GRA area of Bida.

The Niger State Government acted quickly. A team led by the Commissioner for Environment and Climate Change, Mohammed Kolo, visited the scene for an assessment. He expressed concern and promised prompt action.

Kolo said the government would begin repairs within 48 hours. He also stated that long-term solutions would be introduced to address environmental risks in the area.

Unlike the recent flood in Mokwa, which is still under investigation, residents believe this incident was made worse by human activity. Some blame a road construction company for diverting drainage channels. This, they claim, caused water to flood their homes.

Abubakar Bida, a resident, said: “The contractors redirected a large volume of water into our communities. It damaged houses and property worth millions.”

Yakubu Mohammed, from Man Musa Kodogi, added: “We saw a similar flood in 2014. This is not new. What we need now is serious government action. If not, this will happen again.”

The flooding has left many residents homeless. Local traders are also struggling, as their businesses remain closed.

“We are asking Governor Muhammad Bago to help,” Mohammed said. “We need both emergency relief and long-term infrastructure planning. Our people are suffering.”

Climate change is making weather patterns more unpredictable. Urban planners and local leaders are now calling for better drainage, strict construction regulations, and sustainable environmental policies to protect communities from future disasters.

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