Niger State Governor, Mohammed Umaru Bago, has lauded President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his developmental reform agenda, describing it as a catalyst for growth across the country.
The Governor gave the commendation when he received members of the House of Representatives Adhoc Committee on the Rehabilitation and Operationalization of Baro Inland Port at the Government House, Minna.
Governor Bago said the President’s reforms have brought about positive changes nationwide and appreciated the Federal Government for making resources available to states to drive development in various sectors of the economy.
He emphasized that such initiatives are necessary for sustainable growth and improved public services.
He also praised the House of Representatives, under the leadership of Speaker Tajudeen Abbas, for constituting the adhoc committee, noting that the revival of Baro Port is not just a Niger State project but a national economic asset.
The Governor revealed that the revitalization of Baro Inland Port has been a long-standing priority of his administration, with studies already carried out to ensure its effective revival.
He further disclosed that the state government is working with the Nigerian Railway Corporation to reactivate the locomotive line from Baro to Minna, a move aimed at decongesting road traffic.
According to him, the Baro–Katcha road is currently under construction, while discussions are ongoing with the Federal Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy to ensure speedy completion of the project.
Governor Bago also stressed the need for stronger collaboration with Lagos State on water resource management, noting the alarming rate of boat mishaps in Niger State.
He equally advocated for the establishment of a National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA) office in Minna to enhance safety and regulation.
Leader of the delegation and former Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon. Ahmed Idris Wase, commended Governor Bago for his support, stating that the visit was to assess the true state of Baro Port.
He explained that the committee, chaired by Hon. Saidu Musa Abdul, member representing Bida/Gbako/Katcha Federal Constituency, is committed to reviving the port, which he described as a gateway to Nigeria’s economy.
Wase also reaffirmed President Tinubu’s commitment to addressing the nation’s infrastructural deficits, urging parliamentarians to complement the efforts through effective oversight functions.