In a sweeping initiative aimed at providing relief to thousands of internally displaced persons (IDPs) in Niger State, Governor Mohammed Bago has announced plans to build 3,000 modern homes.
These houses, intended as temporary shelters for families uprooted by banditry, will be constructed in three key locations: Alawa, Kuribi, and Erena, with each location hosting 1,000 homes.
The announcement came during Governor Bago’s project inspection tour in Gwada, Shiroro Local Government Area. He emphasized that the state’s IDP camps, which have been home to displaced families living in makeshift conditions, would soon be shut down as part of this comprehensive effort to improve their living standards. The construction of these homes, he explained, will commence on free land allocated by the Emir of Minna, Alhaji Umaru Bahago, ensuring swift implementation of the project.
To expedite the construction, the state government has already ordered specialized block-molding equipment from South Africa. Governor Bago stressed that this initiative reflects his administration’s commitment to tackling the challenges faced by displaced families and restoring dignity to their lives.
While these homes will serve as temporary settlements, the governor reassured residents that efforts are ongoing to address the security concerns preventing people from returning to their ancestral villages. He also expressed concern over the state of education in bandit-affected areas, pledging to rehabilitate public schools and equip them with modern teaching and learning tools.
In addition to the housing project, Governor Bago unveiled plans for new infrastructure, including roads connecting Mararaban Dan Daudu to Gwada and Gwada to Kuta. He also announced the development of a modern market and the construction of a general hospital in Gwada to serve the community’s growing needs.
Community leaders and representatives were quick to applaud the governor’s efforts. Senator Mohammed Sani Musa, representing Niger East Senatorial District, assured residents that all ongoing projects in the area would be completed. Professor James Galadima, speaking on behalf of the Gwada community, expressed gratitude for the governor’s unwavering commitment to improving the quality of life in rural areas.
Governor Bago urged residents to remain patient and cooperative as the government works to address both immediate and long-term challenges. His ambitious plan for housing and infrastructure, coupled with efforts to combat insecurity, signals a brighter future for thousands of displaced families and a renewed commitment to development in Niger State.
