Governor Regrets Securing N1Trillion Loan Instead On N500Billion
He cited concerns over a potential financial crunch and the slow pace of project execution despite the availability of funds.
Governor Umaru Bago of Niger State has expressed regret over securing a ₦1 trillion loan for the Urban-Rural Renewal Projects, stating that he should have opted for ₦500 billion instead.
He cited concerns over a potential financial crunch and the slow pace of project execution despite the availability of funds.
Speaking at a recent meeting with contractors handling various projects in the state, Bago lamented that less than half of the allocated funds hadn’t been utilised.
He noted that he initially secured the amount, hoping that contractors would execute the projects swiftly to avoid financial strain.
“So you want me to come up and tell you to do it? You have to do it in two weeks,” Bago told the contractors.
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He further emphasised the urgency of the projects, adding, “So you can deliver it two weeks after Sallah (Eid Kabir Sallah celebration); that is by April. Did I force you to collect the work? Can you finish it?”
The governor acknowledged progress on some roads but warned that any contractor failing to meet the April deadline risked losing future contracts.
“Because then we tell you something, in the work you are doing, I’m very impressed about the work you are doing in Paiko-Lapai road, and that’s why I want to give you Lapai-Gulu-Muye road. But if you don’t perform by April, who’s ready? You’re all ready. I will give it to you. I’m serious.”
Governor Bago insisted he would not tolerate delays, stating, “Deliver my work, I’m not playing. I’m very serious about it. I want you to deliver, deliver it.”
He also revealed his long-term vision for the state’s infrastructure, saying, “Because by the end of 2025, I’m supposed to start phase 2 of Urban Rural Renewal, which will take place in 2027, you know.”
The governor reiterated that the state had sufficient funds for the projects.
“I have raised ₦1 trillion for this work. You have not yet used ₦500 billion, all of you. So I still have money left.”
Reflecting on the financial burden, he admitted, “If I had known, I would have just loaned ₦500 billion. Yes, because the cost of ₦1 trillion is heavier on me.”
