Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago has dissolved Niger State’s Executive Council, ending the tenure of all commissioners.
He thanked them for their service while retaining key aides and promising a governance restructure.
Niger State Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago, has dissolved the State Executive Council (SEC), bringing an end to the tenure of all commissioners in his administration.
The announcement was made on Monday, September 1, during the council’s meeting held at the Government House Chambers in Minna, the state capital. The governor personally addressed the cabinet, expressing appreciation for their service and contributions to the state’s development since their appointment.
“I sincerely thank you for your commitment and dedication to moving the state forward. Your efforts will always be remembered, and I wish you the very best in your future endeavors,” Bago told the outgoing commissioners.
While the dissolution affects all ministries headed by commissioners, the governor clarified that some top officials within his office would remain in their positions. Those retained include the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), the Chief of Staff, the Deputy Chief of Staff, and other senior aides directly attached to his office.
The development is seen as part of Bago’s ongoing efforts to restructure governance in Niger State and align his administration with the Renewed Hope Agenda. Political observers suggest that the shake-up may pave the way for a new set of appointments that will reflect the governor’s priorities for the next phase of his government.
Cabinet dissolutions are not unusual in Nigeria’s political landscape. For Niger State, this move signals a possible recalibration of policies as the administration enters a critical stage of its development agenda.
Governor Bago, who assumed office in May 2023, has repeatedly stressed his commitment to transforming Niger into an economic hub through agricultural expansion, infrastructure renewal, and job creation. His government has embarked on large-scale projects, including road rehabilitation, power supply initiatives, and urban renewal programs in Minna and other major towns.
With the dissolution of the cabinet, attention now turns to the list of new nominees expected to fill the vacant commissioner positions.
The governor’s decision to retain the SSG and principal officers reflects the importance of continuity in core government operations. These roles are crucial to ensuring that administrative processes run smoothly, particularly when new commissioners are being screened and confirmed.
For now, ministries across the state will operate under the supervision of permanent secretaries until new commissioners are appointed.
As Niger State awaits the unveiling of the next cabinet, stakeholders across political, civil service, and community lines will be watching closely to see the direction Governor Bago charts for the state’s development in the coming months.
