The Secretary to the Government of Niger State (SSG), Alhaji Abubakar Usman has received a high-powered delegation from the Rural Access and Agricultural Marketing Project (RAAMP) led by its National Coordinator, Engr. Aminu Mohammed Bodinga, alongside development partners from the Islamic Development Bank (IsDB), led by Mr. Ahmad Atik, Lead Global Transport Specialist.
The joint visit was to assess Niger State’s level of preparedness for the project takeoff and to evaluate the capacity of the State Project Implementation Unit. RAAMP, a critical intervention programme, focuses on rural road rehabilitation, provision of market infrastructure, water, and health facilities aimed at enhancing agricultural marketing and improving the livelihoods of rural communities.
In his remarks, the National Coordinator of RAAMP, Engr. Aminu Mohammed Bodinga highlighted several priority projects being undertaken in Niger State under the initiative. He reaffirmed the Federal Project Management Unit’s commitment to partnering with the State to accelerate the delivery of rural infrastructure and market access.
Speaking during the visit, Mr. Ahmad Atik of the Islamic Development Bank described IsDB as a strategic partner for Nigeria with a regional hub in the country. He explained that the Bank is supporting Nigeria in critical areas such as poverty reduction, humanitarian aid, climate change adaptation, infrastructure development, agriculture, food security, and education through various initiatives.
Mr. Atik further emphasized IsDB’s support for Niger State in strengthening resilience and accelerating inclusive economic growth through infrastructure and agricultural investments.
Responding, the Secretary to the Government of Niger State (SSG), Alhaji Abubakar Usman, expressed profound appreciation to RAAMP and the Islamic Development Bank for their collaboration with Niger State.
“On behalf of His Excellency, Farmer Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago, I want to assure you that Niger State is fully committed and prepared for the takeoff of this project. Our administration attaches the highest priority to rural roads, market access, and social infrastructure because they are key to unlocking the vast agricultural potential of our State. We are determined to provide the enabling environment, institutional support and other commitments required for the success of RAAMP,” the SSG stated.
He further noted that the visit by RAAMP and IsDB was timely, as it aligns with Governor Bago’s vision of transforming Niger State into Nigeria’s food basket through massive investment in agriculture, rural infrastructure and human capital development.
The visit marks a significant step towards deepening Niger State’s partnership with international development partners in line with the State Government’s vision of agricultural transformation, rural development and sustainable economic growth.
