Kebbi State Governor, Dr. Nasir Idris, has reaffirmed his commitment to transforming the state through inclusive and sustainable development. He made this pledge while addressing executive members of the Kebbi Elders Consultative Forum during their meeting in Birnin Kebbi.
Governor Idris promised to leave Kebbi in a far better state than he inherited it in 2023. “We are not slowing down. This administration will stay on the path of real growth and progress,” he said. “I am determined to leave a legacy that will benefit generations to come.”
He recalled the state of the government when he took office, noting that he met a wide range of challenges. Infrastructure was in decay, schools lacked essential resources, and public morale was low. However, he said significant progress has been made across key sectors in less than two years.
Governor Idris emphasized the central role of education in driving socio-economic growth. He said his administration had taken bold steps to rebuild the education system from the ground up.
“We’ve rehabilitated and equipped over 2,000 schools across the state. We’ve also built 243 new ones, fitted with modern facilities,” he stated. “We’re not just rebuilding structures, we’re restoring hope.”
To address teacher shortages, the government recruited 2,000 qualified educators. It also approved the implementation of both N30,000 and N75,000 national minimum wage for all categories of teachers.
To retain experienced teachers in the classrooms, the administration increased their retirement age from 60 to 65 years and extended years of service from 35 to 40.
Governor Idris also announced that the state now provides free education at all levels. Kebbi students in tertiary institutions receive full financial support, including tuition and registration fee payments.
Partnership with Elders Forum
The governor praised the Kebbi Elders Consultative Forum for its leadership and foresight. He described its members as key partners in the development process and welcomed their ideas.
Former Governor and current Senator, Muhammadu Adamu Aliero, expressed satisfaction with the meeting. He described it as a reunion of like-minded individuals working toward Kebbi’s progress. “We’re here to support the governor and ensure the success of his plans,” he said.
Retired General Ishaya Bamaiyi also commended the governor’s vision. He praised the administration’s focus on development and promised to offer guidance whenever needed. “This is the kind of leadership we need, focused and forward-thinking,” he said.
Justice Suleiman Muhammad Ambursa, First Vice Chairman of the Forum, gave an overview of the group’s history and objectives. He thanked Governor Idris for reviving the Forum, enabling it to function again as a strategic partner to the government.
“We plan to host an annual conference and an economic summit to support the administration’s development goals,” he said. “We will also organize a fundraising campaign. Part of the funds will be used to build a permanent office for the Forum, an enduring legacy of Governor Idris’s support.”
The meeting concluded with a shared commitment to Kebbi’s growth and a renewed call for collaboration between the government and respected elders of the state.
