Niger State Governor, Mohammed Umaru Bago, has reiterated his support for a single-term tenure for governors, arguing that it would promote productivity and enhance governance.

He made the remark while swearing in newly elected local government chairmen, vice-chairpersons, commissioners, and board members at the Hauwa Isah Wali Multipurpose Hall, Government House, Minna, Niger State capital.

Bago stated that he would have taken stricter actions against some officials if not for the upcoming election, noting that a single-term system would allow leaders to act more decisively without political pressure.

“I am an advocate of a single term for governors because unfortunately we are back politically. Everything in Nigeria is being full of politics. It is unfortunate!

“There were things I would have done today but I am deferring it to after election. I have to sack some people who are not useful but I cannot because of election. They have failed their examinations severally; they cannot be promoted but they are burdens on the system. If it were a single term; I would have been more decisive than who I am today,” he said.

The governor described the swearing-in of the new commissioners, council chairmen, vice-chairpersons, and board members as the beginning of the second phase of the New Niger agenda.

He urged them to support his administration in delivering on its campaign promises.

Bago also called on residents to unite against insecurity and help build a society where people can live comfortably regardless of tribe, religion, or origin.

Those sworn in included 30 commissioners and 25 newly elected local government chairmen, alongside vice-chairpersons and board members.

The oath of office and allegiance was administered by the State Chief Judge, Justice Halima Abdulmalik, represented by Justice Maimuna Abubakar of the State High Court.

The Secretary to the State Government, Alhaji Abubakar Usman, described the inauguration as a renewed commitment to serving the state and advancing the New Niger Agenda.

He noted that the incoming commissioners, board members, and elected LG chairmen had undergone an eight-day retreat to prepare them for the tasks ahead, adding that the state remains committed to strengthening security and reviving the agricultural sector. (Daily Trust)