Kwankwaso hails Governor Umaru Bago’s achievements

• Says he is a model for other governors

From John Adams, Minna

Former Governor of Kano State and Presidential candidate of the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP), Dr Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, has applauded the transformation agenda of Niger State Governor, Mohammed Umaru Bago, describing him as a model worthy of emulation by other governors in the country.

Kwankwaso gave the commendation while speaking at the 60th birthday celebration of Bishop Idahosa Isaac Odiri in Lagos over the weekend.

A statement by the Special Adviser on Print Media to Governor Bago, Aisha Wakaso, quoted Kwankwaso as saying that Bago’s leadership style and commitment to development, particularly in agriculture, youth empowerment, and education, are worthy of emulation.

Kwankwaso’s son-in-law, Abba Yusuf, is the Governor of Kano State under the NNPP, but he believes that his Niger State counterpart stands out for his developmental strides.

According to Kwankwaso, Governor Bago does not need to be a member of his party (NNPP) for him to acknowledge his achievements, adding that his party stands for good governance anywhere.

“You don’t have to be a member of my party for me to acknowledge your good work. Stay in your party, but I will say it when you are doing well and when you are doing exceptionally well,” he said.

Kwankwaso revealed that Governor Bago had invited him before his inauguration to share insights on the successes of his administration in Kano State, particularly in education, agriculture, and infrastructure. He noted that Bago listened and learned from his experiences.

“Two years down the line, I can confidently say that Governor Bago has scored excellently so far. I call on all governors across the country to emulate what he is doing. Those who have the opportunity to govern now and in the future must strive to do their best, change the narrative, and improve the lives of their people.”

He specifically praised Bago’s recent initiative to sponsor young people from the state to study science-related courses abroad, calling it a step in the right direction.

Kwankwaso urged the governor to continue investing in young people, emphasising that they are the real investment, beyond material wealth.

“If you continue this way, doing well and investing in young people, they will appreciate you in the future,” he said.

Dr Kwankwaso also addressed the misconception that leadership is about wealth accumulation, stating:

“Many believe accumulating wealth is everything, but that is not the case. What truly matters is the impact a leader makes, and I can categorically say that Governor Bago is making a significant difference with the achievements he has recorded within a short period.”

Governor Bago was recently nominated as The Sun Governor of the Year in recognition of his achievements over the last two years.

The Lagos event attracted dignitaries from various sectors who came together to celebrate Bishop Idahosa Isaac Odiri and reflect on leadership and nation-building.