By Awwal Umar Kontagora In a bold move to accelerate industrialisation and economic transformation, the Niger State Government has designa...
By Awwal Umar Kontagora
In a bold move to accelerate industrialisation and economic transformation, the Niger State Government has designated a 1,000-hectare expanse of land in Diko, Gurara Local Government Area, as a Special Economic Zone aimed at attracting investment, creating jobs, and positioning the community as a major industrial hub.
Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago announced the initiative during a consultative meeting with stakeholders in Diko, where he outlined his administration's plans to harness the state's vast land resources for sustainable development and economic prosperity.
The governor explained that the Special Economic Zone would attract both local and international investors, increase the state's global visibility, and stimulate economic growth through increased Foreign Direct Investment (FDI).
According to him, one of the flagship projects planned for the zone is the establishment of a 100-megawatt power generation plant, which is expected to transform Diko into a major electricity-producing community while providing residents and industries with a stable and reliable power supply.
Governor Bago further disclosed that the zone would accommodate industries involved in the manufacturing of vehicles, motorcycles, bicycles, and tyres. He described the initiative as a strategic step towards diversifying the state's economy and promoting industrial development.
He assured landowners whose properties fall within the designated area that the government would allocate them equivalent plots of land elsewhere and ensure they receive adequate compensation.
The governor reiterated his administration's commitment to improving the welfare of citizens by making productive use of the state's vast land resources to drive economic growth and development across all sectors.
"We are determined to utilise the abundant resources available in Niger State to create wealth, generate employment opportunities, and improve the living standards of our people," he said.
In separate remarks, the Deputy Speaker of the Niger State House of Assembly, Hon. Afiniki Dauda; the Acting District Head of Diko, Alhaji Musa Suleiman Ijah; the Chairman of the Diko Farmers Association, Mr Isuwa Yekwo; and the President of the Diko Community Development Association, Mr Obed Danlami, commended the governor for what they described as his visionary leadership and commitment to transforming Diko into a thriving economic centre.
They also pledged the support and cooperation of the people to ensure the successful implementation of the initiative.
Earlier, Governor Bago paid a courtesy visit to the Village Head of Diko, Habila Maimako Kaura, where he briefed the traditional ruler on the government's development plans for the community.
The governor also inspected the dilapidated Diko Police Station and pledged to renovate the facility as part of efforts to strengthen security and create an enabling environment for investment and economic activities.
The declaration of the Special Economic Zone is expected to usher in a new era of socio-economic development for Diko and further reinforce Niger State's growing reputation as an emerging destination for agriculture, industry, and investment.
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