Development Agenda For Niger State proofread

Developmental StrategiesFor

Niger State

By: Dr. Ibrahim Hassan Ramath

Table of Contents1. Felicitation To The Governor of Niger State

2. Executive Summary

3. Background Information and Historical Perspectivea. Background Informationb. Historical Perspective and Profile of Niger Statec. Key Indices and Characteristics of Niger Stated. Strategic Importance of Niger State

4. Past Government Policies: Impact and Challengesa. Introductionb. Revenue Generationc. Employment Generationd. Poverty Alleviation and Welfarism in Niger Statee. Social and Infrastructural Development In Niger State De

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Table of Contents5. Identification of Potential Strategies In Niger Statea. Agriculture and Food Securityb. Solid Minerals Sectorc. Hydro Energy Sectord. Tourism and Cultural Sectore. Health Sectorf. Education Sectorg. Housing Sectorh. Manufacturing and Agro- Allied Developmenti. Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs)

6. Strategic Plan and Alliance in Niger Statea. Establishment of Industrial Zone in the 25 Local Govt. Areasb. Suleja as the Commercial Hub of Niger Statec. Strategic Alliance with Fed. Govt. Parastatals and The Private Sector Initiatives

7. Conclusion Deve

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Felicitation

I congratulate your excellency, Abubakar Sani Bello, on your election as the Governor of Niger State. May your regime have the desired impact on the lives of the citizenry of the state and also transform Niger State as a vibrant and self reliant economy.

From Dr. Ibrahim Hassan Ramath

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NIGER STATE

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Executive Summary

Socio–economic development is the process of social and economic development in a society. Socio-economic development is measured with indicators such as Gross Domestic Product (GDP), life expectancy, literacy and level of employment. The purpose of this document is to the provide a framework for the new administration in Niger State to achieve all-round socio-development in the state by identifying and harnessing its vast resources.

Niger State was carved out of the former North-Western State by the late Head of State, General Murtala Ramat Mohammed in February, 1976. It, however, came into being on 1st April, the same year.

It is bordered to the North by Sokoto State, West by Kebbi State, South by Kogi and South-West by Kwara State. Kaduna and Federal Capital Territory border the State to the North-East and South-East respectively. The State has a common boundary with the Republic of Benin along New Bussa, Agwara and Wushishi Local Government Areas. This has given rise to common inter-border trade between the two countries.

Niger State is the acclaimed “Power House” of the nation because it houses three hydro-electric power stations: the Shiroro , Kainji and Jebba Stations.

Niger State covers a total land area of 83,266,779 square kilometres or about 8.3 million hectares, which represent 8% of the total land area of Nigeria. About 85% of the land is arable.

The State is very richly and abundantly endowed naturally. The one most important asset cherished very much by Nigerlites is the fertile land. Added to this is the even climate of the geographical area, which is characterized by very rich annual rainfall. To crown it all, a wide variety of minerals and material resources are known to be available in the State.

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Executive SummaryNiger State is dominated by two visible activities: agriculture and governance (public service). The standard of living of the people is low. Subsistence agriculture accounts for about 70% of total employment, while the civil service accounts for the bulk of paid employment.

The absence of a virile private sector and low level of investment has made Niger State one of the least developed states in the country, despite its nearness to the Federal Capital Territory (FCT). Successive governments in Niger State have tried in transforming the state into a privately driven economy without success, despite the abundant agricultural and natural resources available in the state.

The Mu’azu Babangida Aliyu-led government even went a step forward by formulating a blueprint, Vision 3: 2020, for the transformation of Niger State into one of the three top economies in Nigeria. Eight years after this laudable programme was launched, the state is in serious debt crisis of over $44.750m, as stated by the Debt Management Office of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), while the Federal Allocation is on the decline due to the continuous fall in the price of crude oil in the global market.The state’s Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) has not increased to the desired level to put the state on a sound recovery level; the IGR stood at N4.115b as at 2014. The state is currently struggling to service its recurrent expenditure; key capital projects have been abandoned. Youth unemployment has escalated in the state, while key government agencies and parastatals are moribund.

For the new government to transform the economy of Niger State, the private sector has to be encouraged and provided with incentives in virtually all the sectors of the state: agricultural, mining, tourism and culture, energy, housing, Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs), health, education, manufacturing, etc.Collaboration of institutions such as the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Bank of Industry (BOI), Nigerian Export Promotion Council (NEPC), Bank of Agriculture (BOA) and others have to be secured in changing the status quo in Niger State.

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Background Information & Historical Perspective

Background InformationNiger State is a state in north-central Nigeria and the largest state in the country. The state capital is Minna, and other major cities are Bida, Kontagora, and Suleja. It was formed in 1976 when the then North-Western State was bifurcated into Niger State and Sokoto State. It is home to Ibrahim Babangida and Abdulsalami Alhaji Abubakar, two of Nigeria's former military rulers. The Nupe, Gbagyi, Kamuku, Kambari, Dukawa and Koro form the majority of numerous indigenous tribes of Niger State.

The state is named after the River Niger. Two of Nigeria's major hydroelectric power stations, the Kainji Dam and the Shiroro Dam, are located in Niger State. The famous Gurara Falls is in Niger State – and Gurara Local Government Area – is named after the Gurara River, on whose course the fall is situated.

Also situated there is Kainji National Park. It is the largest National Park in Nigeria, but a lot of the wildlife has disappeared. Niger State also contains Kainji Lake, the Borgu Game Reserve and the Zugurma Game Reserve.

Niger State consists of twenty-five (25) Local Government Areas. They are: Agaie, Agwara, Bida, Borgu, Bosso, Chanchaga, Edati, Gbako, Gurara, Katcha, Kontagora, Lapai, Lavun, Magama, Mariga, Mashegu, Mokwa, Munya, Paikoro, Rafi, Rijau, Shiroro, Suleja, Tafa, and Wushishi.

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Background Information & Historical Perspective (Cont’d)

HISTORICAL PERSPECTIVE AND PROFILE OF NIGER STATE

Niger State was created from the then North Western State on 3rd February, 1976, by the then regime of General Murtala Mohammed. It has Minna as its capital. Other major cities are Bida, Kontagora, and Suleja. Located in the Middle Belt of Nigeria, Niger State covers 76,363 square kilometres. It is the largest Nigerian state by land area.

Niger State shares boundaries with Kaduna State and Federal Capital Territory, Abuja, in the East and South-East respectively; Kebbi and Zamfara in the North; Kwara and Kogi States in the South; and Benin Republic in the East.

The areas making up Niger State today comprised the old Nupe and Kontogora Kingdoms, Abuja (now Suleja) with links to the famous kingdom of Zauzau and a host of other political entities. The old Nupe Kingdom today has been broken administratively into the Bida Emirate (encompassing Gbako and Lavun Local Government areas) and the Agaie and Lapai emirates.

Niger State was carved out of the former North-Western State by the late Head of State, General Murtala Ramat Mohammed in February, 1976. It however came to being on 1st April, the same year.

In 1987, the Babangida administration created the Shiroro Local Government , bringing the number of local government areas to ten (10). With the creation of additional states and local government areas in 1991 by President Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida, four (4) more local governments were created in the state.

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These included Rijau Local Government , with headquarters at Rijau while its former name, Magama was transferred to Nasko as its headquarters. Parts of Mariga and Borgu Local Government, the newly merged area to the State from Kwara State, were carved out to form Agwara Local Government, with headquarters at Agwara. Wushishi Local Government was also carved out from Mariga Local Government, with headquarters at Wushishi.

Another creation of additional local governments on 19th September, 1991, gave birth to five (5) additional local governments in the state. Gurara Local Government was carved out of the present Suleja Local Government, with Gawu-Babangida as its headquarters; Paikoro and Bosso Local Government Areas were created from the former Chanchaga Local Government, with Paiko and Maikunkele as Local Government Headquarters respectively.

What remained of the former Chanchaga Local Government headquarters has also retained its name, Chanchaga. Gbako Local Government was split into two (2) and the name Gbako transferred to a local government with headquarters at Iemu, while Bida became the Local Government headquarters of the newly created Bida Local Government Area.

Lavun was divided into two, with the creation of Mokwa Local Government with headquarters at Mokwa while Kutigi remains the headquarters of Lavun Local Government Area. The remaining four (4) local government areas, Shiroro, Agaie, Lapai, and Rafi, remain untouched.

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In 1996, General Sani Abacha, the then Head of State, created six more local government areas. These are Tafa Local Government with headquarters at New-Wuse, carved out of Suleja Local Government; Edati Local Government with headquarters at Enagi emerged out of Lavun Local Government; Munya Local Government with headquarters at Sarkin Pawa, from the Shiroro Local Government; Mashegu Local Government, with headquarters at Mashegu carved out of Wushishi Local Government; and Katcha Local Government with headquarters as Bangi was created from Kontagora Local Government Area.

KEY INDICES AND CHARACTERISTICS OF NIGER STATE

Niger State is the largest State in Nigeria, covering about 86,00km (or about 8.6 million hectares representing about 9.3% of the total land area in Nigeria). 80% of the land area is suitable for agriculture, with only 25% being put to use annually.

The population of Niger State as at the 2006 census figure is estimated at 3,950,249, comprising 2,032,725 males and 1,917,524 females. These represent the proportional share of 51.5% for males and 48.5% for females respectively.

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The major economic activities in the State are farming, fishing and cattle rearing.

The following natural resources are found in the State: gold, tale, kyanite, kaolin, graphite, ball clay, feldspar, marble dolomite, manganese, mica, lead and copper, quertizite, asbestos & iron, silica sand and granite.

Tourist attractions in the State include Zuma Rock (Suleja) Gurara Falls; Kainji Lake National Park; Mungo Park Cenotaph (Jebba); Kainji, Shiroro and Jebba dams; Baro Empire Hill and Port; Zungeru Colonial ruins; Bida brass and glass works; Kusherki Magnetic Hill; Pissa Cave; Moving Rock; Bina Foot Prints; Fogbe Hut; Nagwamatse Well; Juju Rock; Ladi Kwali Pottery; Mayanka Water Falls (Suleja) and Annual Durbar festivals.

The State's water resources are vast, supporting three hydroelectric power stations: Kainji, Shiroro and Jebba . The hydro electric power stations in addition support and offer increased prospects and opportunities for irrigation farming, animal husbandry and fishing.

The major crops being cultivated in the state are rice, yams, sorghum, maize, groundnuts, beans, cassava, sugarcane, melon and millet.

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The human resources of the State are equally great. The economically active population is about 50% of the total population.

The major ethnic groups in the state include Nupes, Hausa, Gbayi, Kadara, Koro, Bassa, Kamuka, Ingwai, Fangu, Kanbari, Dukkawa, Fulani, Abawa, Bisan, Gungawa, Bauchi, Banba, Urah, Boko, Bokobaro, Banchau, Achifawa, Dakarkari, Kakanda, Ganagana and Dibo. The standard of living of the people is low. Subsistence.

Agriculture accounts for about 70% of total employment, while the civil service accounts for the bulk of paid employment.

The absence of a virile private sector and low level of investment have made Niger State one of the least developed states in the country.

The public sector accounts for about 70% of paid employment and consumes about 75% of total government revenues on recurrent expenditure (personnel costs, overheads, subventions, etc) and expenditure on General Administration and Construction (maintenance of public buildings) leaving a relatively small proportion for capital projects.

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STRATEGIC IMPORTANCE OF NIGER STATE

Niger State is a land of diverse potentials in terms of the enormous natural resources, large landscape areas, varieties of tourist attraction sites and opportunity for large scale farming, fisheries and livestock agriculture. The strategic importance of the state can be seen in the following light:

Huge potentials for Internally Generated Revenue (IGR)

Rich and vibrant arts & culture capable of making the state a tourist destination

Huge and expansive arable land for mechanized farming

Conducive environment for the rearing and management of livestock

Huge potential for excellence in athletics and other sports

Large deposits of solid mineral resources unexploited

Receptive and lovable people cohabiting and existing in a peaceful environment

Large expanse of wetland most suitable for the development and sustenance of rice farming

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STRATEGIC IMPORTANCE OF NIGER STATE

Huge forest resources

Amenable and liberal tax system suitable for the growth of SMEs and informal sector enterprises

Proximity to Federal Capital Territory (FCT)

Expanding education sector to serve adult learning, skills training, and foreign student markets

Electrification of the urban and rural areas

Continued attraction for retirement living based on quality of life and healthy lifestyles

Widely regarded as the most peaceful state in Nigeria.

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Past Government Policies: Impact & Constraints

In 2007, the Mu’azu Babangida Aliyu-led government developed the blueprint for the transformation of the economy of Niger State to be one of the top three state economies in Nigeria by the year 2020 with its Vision 3: 2020. Although this is a long term development goal, the basic foundation to make this a reality has not been laid, eight years after the launching of the programme. However, the government must be commended for putting together this laudable vision for the state.

REVENUE GENERATION:

Between 2010 and 2014, the state’s Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) moved upward from N3.2557B to 4.115B. This represents a percentage rise of 26.41% in the last four years. Despite the laudable reforms and policy formulations the government promised to embark on with the Vision 3: 2020 in the agricultural, health, tourism & culture, transport, education, solid minerals and other critical sectors of the state’s economy, the internally generated revenue of the state still remains at a very low level, despite the high potentials of the state.

Apparently unhappy with the low revenue profile of the state, the former Governor of Niger State, Dr. Mu’azu Babangida Aliyu directed the State Board of Internal Revenue to adopt new strategies that would block loopholes and improve on the Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) of the state. With the dwindling Federal Allocation resulting from the continuous drop in the price of crude oil in the world global market, the challenge of the government is building the revenue potentials of the state.

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Past Government Policies: Impact & Constraints (Cont’d)

Employment Generation : The immediate past Chief Servant and Governor of Niger State, Dr. Mu’azu Babangida Aliyu, observed that the growing unemployment rate among youths in the state has reached an alarming proportion and must be treated as an emergency situation. He said the unemployment phenomenon had created restlessness among youths and resulted in several social vices that were inimical to societal values and development.

Unemployment among youths in the society was not wholly addressed by the past government. Little was achieved in this key area of governance, though the government recruited the following:

5,000 graduates under the Graduate Employment Scheme

500 youths, engaged and trained as sanitation officers, and another 500 as Green Guards to police the forest

Another 500 youths, traffic vanguards, were engaged to assist in the management of vehicular movement in the state, as well as 300 young people who have been trained in the area of poultry and fish farming.

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Poverty Alleviation and Welfarism in Niger State

In 2012, the Federal Government Bureau of Statistics qualified Niger State with lowest poverty rate (3.6%). The state, during the last eight years of the Governor Mu’azu Babangida Aliyu, put in place the following poverty alleviation measures to assist the citizenry of the state:

Mobilization of over 100,000 hectares of land and the engagement of over 50,000 farmers across the 25 LGAs.

Procurement of tonnes of assorted fertilizers in order to boost rice production in the state from 500,000 metric tonnes to about 2 million metric tonnes annually.

Declaration of free and compulsory education in the state.

Integration of Western and Islamic education, ahead of Federal Government’s Almajiri schools in the state.

Payment of NECO/WAEC fees for final year students in all public secondary schools in the state, since 2008.

Permanent secretaries and some other top echelon of the state public servants enjoyed car soft-loans worth N435.5million. And, only recently, the former governor approved the increase of salaries of both academic and non-academic staff of the state’s College of Education, Minna, and the Polytechnic, Zungeru.

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Social and Infrastructural Development of the State

To the credit of the Mua’zu Babangida Aliyu administration, the government embarked on construction and beautification of the State, especially in Minna. The following were some of the major road projects executed by the State Government:

Dualization of the Yakubu Lane /Government House Road.

The Mua’zu Road

The Musa Zago Road

The Yakubu Roundabout-Keteren Government Old Secretariat Road Project

The new Eastern Bypass-Bahago Roundabout

Eid-Burial Ground Road Project

The Maitumbi-Makunku Road Project

The Jonathan’s Place Road Project

The Peter Sarki Road-the Niteco Road (now Justice Idris, Legbo Kutigi Road)

The Old Bay Clinic Road

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Social and Infrastructural Development of the State

The Lapai-Gwori-FUT Road

The Kwatwuti Kafin Koro –Gwada

Construction of Bridge across the Shiroro River (70% Completed).

Outside the state capital, the administration also undertook the reconstruction of road projects such as the following:

Dualisation of the Lagos Street in Kontagora

The Luma-Babbana Road in Borgu, Local Government Area

The Lapai-Gulu –Muye Road

Challenges of the Governor Mua’zu Babangida Aliyu Led Administration

In as much as the last administration laid down a blueprint and reform system to transform the economic and social development of Niger State (the Vision 3: 2020), overall in the last eight years of the regime, a lot of ground were left uncovered from the micro and macro economic impact on the standard of living of the citizenry and the state as a whole.

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Challenges of the Governor Mua’zu Babangida Aliyu Led Government

On the micro economic level, the impact of governance was not felt by the people of Niger State. The underlisted points attest to this fact.

70% of the population of Niger State are peasant farmers and farming is still being executed with rudimentary tools, therefore reducing the productivity of the farmers as well as their welfare.

Genuine assistance from the State Government to ensure that farmers and small scale industries, particularly agro-based ones, have access to finance from the following government and private financial organizations were lacking: Niger State Trust Fund, Agricultural Credit Guarantee fund of CBN, National Agricultural Cooperative and Rural Development Bank, Bank of Industry, Bank of Agriculture and others.

Youth unemployment in Niger State is on the rise, without tangible effort by the government in tackling the menace.

Lack of the willpower to embark on developmental projects that have direct impact on the lives of the citizenry of Niger state.

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On the macro economic level, the following are some of the challenges and weaknesses of the last administration.

Dwindling revenue of the state in the face of reduced Federal Allocation, low internally generated revenue (IGR) and increased debt profile of the state. According to the office of Debt Management of Central Bank of Nigeria, the debt profile of Niger State as at December 31, 2014, stood at $44.750m, while the IGR for the state in the corresponding period stood at 4.115B.

Inability to transform the economies of the state toward a privately-driven economy and harness the agricultural, tourism and natural resources has had negative impact on the state. Public Private Partnership (PPP) initiatives need to be taken to another level in the state to accelerate the growth and developmental potentials of the state.

Lack of close alliance with major financial institutions, like the Bank of Industry (BOI), Bank of Agricultural (BOI), and Central Bank of Nigeria(CBN) has deprived the state and its entrepreneurs of the necessary financial assistance that will accelerate the level of development in the state.

The presence of many moribund and abandoned industries in state is a major concern for the State Government. Some of the moribund industries existing in the state are the following:

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a. The Minna Juice Factory

b.Niger State Fertilizer Plant in Zungeru

c.Nail & Hart Wire Company

d.Mosquito Coil Company

e.Niger Sack Company

f.Niger Flour Mill

g.Tiles Factory

h.State Farm Ranch

Massive youth unemployment in the state, leading to social vices and insecurity, despite the enormous resources and opportunities in the state.

Lack of funds to execute the laudable programmes and projects of the government (especially the Vision 3: 2020 agenda).

Inability of the regime to capitalize on the nearness of Federal Capital Territory (FCT) to the state, especially Suleja, and create a synergy that will positively impact on the revenue drive of the state.

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Identification of Potential Strategies In Niger State

Agriculture and Food Security

Features of the Agricultural Sector in Niger State

The prevailing state of peasant farming is largely limited to subsistent agricultural practices with attendant low productivity. This is against the enormous potential of developing agriculture at commercial level. Inadequate supply and high costs of basic agricultural inputs, such as improved seeds/planting materials, organic and inorganic fertilizers and agro-chemicals. These inputs are always not available at the right time, thus affecting agricultural production activities which are seasonal in nature. Insufficient provision and high costs of agricultural equipment and machineries, such as tractors, bulldozers, animal traction, etc.Inadequate supply of improved breeds of livestock for husbandry, dilapidated veterinary clinics, and high costs and scarcity of veterinary drugs, vaccines and equipment. Inadequate funding (including budgetary support) and inability of small scale farmers to access agricultural credit facilities from financial institutions. Rural-urban migration due to absence of basic social infrastructure in rural areas, resulting in depletion of labour for agricultural activities. High level of deforestation as a result of unsustainable farming practices, timber and fuel wood collection and over-grazing.

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Identification of Potential Strategies In Niger State (Cont’d)


Features of the Agricultural Sector in Niger State

Inadequate Infrastructure, Resources and Personnel for information generation and dissemination. Inadequate number and quality of extension workers and demonstration plots. Inadequate coordination of horticultural activities.Low level of all-year-round farming due to absence of or non-functional irrigation facilities and equipment. Only 25% of the potential FADAMA land in the state has been developed.Poor agro-processing industrial base and storage facilities, causing high post-harvest losses of agricultural produce.Lack of small scale processing plants for surplus perishable farm produce. Inefficient marketing system as a result of poor infrastructure, standardization and quality control. High cost and/or scarcity of fishing equipment/input such as fishing nets, hooks, fingerlings, boats and out-board engines, coupled with obnoxious fishing practices resulting in depletion of fisheries resources, especially in the numerous inland water bodies of the state.

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Opportunities in The Agricultural Sector

Large-scale crop production: Niger State covers a total land area of about 86,000km or 8.6million hectares, representing about 9.3% of the total land area of the country. Out of this, about 7m ha (or 80%) are arable, from which about 32% (2.3mha) is actually cultivated for production of various food and cash crops.

The state’s potential for agricultural output cuts across various food and cash crop horizons, including sorghum, maize rice, cowpea, groundnut, yam, cassava, sweet potatoes, cotton, soya-beans, sugarcane, melon and vegetables. Others are cash crops such as Sheanut, locust bean, Jatropha, and cashew.

The potential for dry season farming (i.e. Fadama development) is also enormous. The state has an estimated 682,000ha of irrigable land, of which only 105,575ha have been developed, with only about 26,500ha being cultivated annually. Also, the extensive flood plains at the water bodies (River Niger, Kaduna, Gbakogi, Gurara and Chanchaga), dams/reservoirs (Kainji, Shiroro and Jebba), numerous perennial streams as well as the distinct six months of dry season cultivation of rice, maize, sugarcane, pulses and assorted vegetables.

Livestock Production is equally an area of immense potential in Niger State. Presently, livestock population stands at 2.m cattle, 2.1m sheep, 2.6m Goats, 1m others (pigs, rabbits, etc.) 6m poultry (chicken, turkey, ducks etc). Niger State has already earmarked about 132,404ha to be developed into 23 grazing reserves for pasture development and sedentarisation of pastoralists. So far, only two of the 23 proposed grazing reserves have been gazetted with little or no infrastructural development on some.

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Opportunities in The Agricultural Sector

Fisheries: The abundant large inland water bodies including dams/reservoirs along valleys and flood plains of River Niger and Kaduna spanning over 436,196 Ha can support artisanal fisheries, if productively exploited.

Agro-processing: Abundant opportunities exist for processing of grains, fruits, roots and tubers, spices, oil crops, fibre crops, livestock and fish.

Export earnings: Boost agricultural contributions to export earnings by accelerating the development of food processing and focus on value-addition to primary crops.

ACTION PLAN FOR AGRICULTURAL SECTOR IN NIGER STATE

1.Acceleration of production cash crops, especially rice, maize, corn, groundnut, yam and cassava.Reactivation of the Fertilizer Plant in Zungeru and establishment of 2 other plants in the state through Public Private Partnership (PPP) initiatives in order to boost fertilizer output in the state.Farm Management information system: monthly publication of farm management advisory information bulletin.

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Creation of database of all the farmers in the state through the assistance of the 25 local government areas. This will facilitate easy distribution of farm implements, fertilizers and financial incentives to farmers.

Supply of assorted agro-chemical pesticides to farmers in the state in the short, medium and long term (250,000 litres of agro chemicals delivered and distributed annually).

Provision of tractors and animal traction implements annually.

Rehabitation and development of 19 irrigation schemes, 500 tube well modules, 100 diversion modules and 1,000 irrigation pumps annually.

Establishment of integrated Agric Enterprises at Agaie, Kuta, Tegina and Nasko farm institutes. This will increase youth employment and improve agricultural production.

Construction /Rehabitation of 150 farm service centres to boost efficiency in agricultural delivery and increase extension services.

Rehabitation of Badeggi rice mill and establishment of 50 new processing centres/mills for rice, cassava and groundnut annually.

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Support Agric Development Project (ADP) to strengthen extension services. Ratio of extension service staff to farmers to be improved immensely.

2.Increase the Production of Livestock and Fisheries

Establishment of 3 nuclear LIBCs and 25 livestock breeding centres in all the local governments of the state and increase the production of day old chicks and broiler chicks per annum.

Gazetting and development of 25 grazing reserves to increase the availability of livestock feeds, increase in number of pastoral settlements, increase in livestock production and reduction in local farmers and Fulani conflicts. Control of trans-boundary animal disease and transmission.

Construction of four (4) modern abattoirs at Minna, Suleja, Kontagora and Bida. Construction of a vetirinary hospital at Minna and rehabilitation of 19 vet clinics; construction of 6 new vet clinics and establishment of livestock drug revolving fund.

Development of at least 50 ox –bow lakes and 5 dams/reservoirs, completion of Tagwas hatchery, establishment of 3 additional hatcheries in each of the senatorial zones and rehabilitation of Waya fish and establishment of 2 additional demonstration fish ponds.

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Increase the Production of Livestock and Fisheries

Access to Ecowas micro-credit for fishermen for at least 1,000 farmers

Establishment of regional livestock and commodity market; this will generate employment, increase revenue and create conducive environment for market activities.

3.Improving Access to Agricultural Credit and Financing

Establishment of Agricultural Trust Fund, develop linkages with development finance institutes and private sector financial institutions and accessing ACCSF of the Central Bank of Nigeria and drawing up modalities for the state to pave way for its access of the N200 billion Agric fund from the CBN and the Federal Government Agric Intervention fund.

Working closely in hand with local and foreign investors in all areas of agricultural development and funding in the state, and putting in place incentives to encourage the participation of private investors in the agricultural sector.

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Solid Minerals

The table below indicates mineral resources that are available in towns and cities of Niger State:

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S/N CITIES/TOWN NATURAL RESOURCES1 Minna Gold,Graphite and Ball Clay,2 Kontagora Gold,Tale,Feldspar,Asbestos & iron and Granite3 Rafi Gold,Tale,Kyanite,Graphite and Granite4 Paskoro Gold, Ball Clay4 Magama Gold5 Shiroro Gold,Tale,Kyanite,Feldspar and Mica6 Lavisn Kaolin7 Gbako Kaolin,Ball Clay and Silica Sand8 Agaie Ball Clay9 Mokwa Kaolin

10 Edati Ball Clay11 Borgu Feldspar12 Gurara Quertizite13 Rijau Quertizite14 Katcha Silica Sand

NIGER STATENATURAL RESOURCES


Solid Minerals

Strategic Opportunities in the Mineral Resources Sector

Availability of international and local markets.

Encouragement of inter-linkage with other sectors, such as Tourism and Hospitality industries.

Provision of solid and reliable sources of foreign exchange and revenue to the state.

Source of employment and economic empowerment of the people.

ACTION PLAN FOR THE SOLID MINERAL SECTOR

•Setting up of an agency and strengthening the Niger State Development Company Limited to be responsible for the development of Solid Minerals sector in the state, and ensure active participation of the government in the development of the sector in the state. Increase awareness of the solid minerals potentials in the state.

•Setting up a masterplan for the optimal development of Solid Minerals in the state. This will provide information on the availability and viability of solid minerals deposits in the state and subsequently attract geniune investors to the sector.•Commencement of commercial mining operations through joint ventures and other viable investment drives connected therrein. Co-ordination of development of solid minerals in the state will increase revenue generation, poverty eradication, employment generation and massive development of infrastructural facilities in the mining communities.

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Hydro Energy Sector

Opportunities in the Hydro Energy Sector

Adequate and reliable power source.Trading of excess energy. Boosting Technological and Industrial Development. Creating employment for teeming populace.Boosting tourism. Boosting irrigation farming. Boosting economic and social life of citizens.

There are 3 hydro energy stations in Niger State, namely:

Kainji - 760MW Jebba - 540MW Shiroro- 600MW

There has, however, been a decline in the energy supplied from the three Hydro-Power stations. This has affected the energy allocation to the state, despite the increase in power demand arising from the growth in the economy and population. Consequently, the last administration initiated proposals through Public Private Partnership for development of the following power plants:

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Hydro Energy Sector

250MW Gurara Hydro-Power development since 2004 and good progress has been made.

Other small Hydro-power plants, such as 35MW Swashi Power Plant, the 50MW Tapa 1 and the 50MW Tapa 2 Small Power Plants are being studied for development.

The State Government has entered into partnership with the Federal Government in the development of a 1,200MW Hydro-Power Plant at Zungeru in Niger State.

ACTION PLAN FOR THE HYDRO ENERGY SECTOR

The state government, in conjunction with private investors, to invest in the following hydro power plants in the State:

1.1,200MW Hydro Power Plant at Zungeru2.250MW Hydro Power Plant at Gurara3.35MW Hydro Power Plant at Swashi4.50MW Hydro Power Plant at Tapa5.2000MW Solar Power Plants across Niger State6.1000 MW Wind Turbine Power Plants across the State7.Research into alternative energy8.Urban and Rural Electrification

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Hydro Energy Sector

IMPLICATION OF INVESTMENT IN HYDRO POWER PLANTS IN NIGER STATE1.Will greatly improve power supply profile of the country.2.Will create employment opportunities for teeming populace, especially in the host communities.3.Will improve the economic and social life of the benefiting communities.4.Niger State will be self sufficient in energy.5.Industries will flourish in Niger State6.Excess power will be traded to National Grid.

Other recommendations for the sector are the following:Neighbouring states should come together to develop all available sources of power in their areas, like water, wind and solar. Reputable consultants should be commissioned to carry out feasibility studies and design of available schemes.

Government should encourage the use of solar energy, particularly in public facilities (for example, hospitals, schools, etc).

The state should demand for a fair deal on supply of power to Minna, Bida, Kotangora, Suleja and New Bussa by PHCN. To this end, a powerful team could be put up by the state government to discuss with the relevant Federal Government ministry.

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Tourism and Culture SectorNiger State is culturally diverse and blessed with numerous tourist and cultural attractions. About 48 tourism and culture potentials have been identified in the state for both domestic and international tourists. The identified tourist and cultural attractions are listed below:

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S/N Museum & Monument1 National Art Gallery2 State Museum3 Art & Craft4 Bida Brass/Glass Work5 Ladi Kwali Pottery 6 Tatiko Traditional Textile Waving7 Natural Features8 River Niger & ITS Tributaries9 Gurara Water Falls

10 Nnamdi Azikiwe Centre11 Taliko Craft Centre12 Mango Park Tomb & Juju Rock13 Gawu Rock Formation14 Mayanka Water Fall15 Zungeru Colonial Ruins16 Kusharki Magnetic Hill17 Dutse Mai Nono18 Bina Foot Prints19 Pisa Cave20 Shiroro Hydro Electric Dam21 Jebba Hydro Electric Dam22 Kainji Hydro Electric Dam23 Music & Dance24 Angale25 Amwamwa26 Gbaguragi27 Gunu Shata28 Gwape International Troup29 Kabulu30 Ndako Gboye31 Shama

TOURIST ATTRACTION IN NIGER STATE


Tourism and Culture SectorOpportunities In the Tourism and Culture SectorAbundance of tourism potentials, of which almost 50 have been identified across the state.Availability of markets for the tourism products/services, especially the proximity to the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).Accessibility of the tourist destinations.Availability of development partners (e.g. PPP, NEPAD, UNWTO, etc). Peaceful and conducive environment.

ACTION PLAN IN THE TOURIST AND CULTURE SECTOR1.Policy Formulationa.Workshop, Training and Retreatb.Good Legislation for Sustainable Development c.Incentives to Investors.

2.Provision of Infrastructurea.Initiatives and programme shall be carried out in collaboration with the Ministry of Works and Infrastructureb.Remodeling and renovation of the various tourism centres in the state.c.Identification and documentation of tourism products and services, publication of research by the Niger State Tourism Corporation (NTSC) and Niger state Council of Art And Culture (NICAC).

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Identification of Potential Strategies In Niger State {Cont’d)

Tourism and Culture Sector

ACTION PLAN IN THE TOURIST AND CULTURE SECTOR3.Products & services packaging, branding, marketing and promotion.

4.Sensitization and mobilization a.Advocacy, Workshop and Seminarb.Creation of conducive operating environment and generation of positive attitude toward tourism products and services from the local commodities.

5.General Planning and Implementationa.Data Collectionb.Planning and Implementation.

6.Identification of Entertainers/Advocacy.

Other strategies in the Tourism and Cultural Sector include the following:Evolution of viable policies to direct government action in rejuvenating and marketing the cultural heritage of our many sub-national and religious groups.

Development of master strategic plan for promotion and organization of tourism activities that will engender peaceful co-existence and mutual appreciation of our differences.

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Tourism and Culture Sector

ACTION PLAN IN THE TOURIST AND CULTURE SECTOREncouragement and creation of inter-cultural platform for sustainable dialogue, friendship, interdependence and harmony among our various ethnic groups and interests. Conduct or institution of research activities into cultural history of the state’s diverse ethnic groups, with emphasis on our commonalities within the brotherhood of man and exigencies of our destiny as citizens of the state. Development, implementation and continuous review of the tourism development document that will provide focus for government efforts to make Niger State a safe, secured and interesting tourist haven.Identification and marketing of tourism centres with investment potentials to international and local investors interested in developing tourism on PPP basis. Creation and maintenance of state cultural practices and museums in order to protect the future of our cultural heritage. Control, supervision and maintenance of the physical and cultural integrity of historical sites and relics in the state. Ensuring capacity building for staffers towards achieving the desired collective objectives of the ministry.

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Health SectorThe health sector is crucial to the survival of any nation or country. A nation with high number of sick people will be subjected to low productivity and revenue. As the saying goes, health is wealth. The health sector in Niger State is plagued with different problems, from inadequate funding to lack of sufficient equipment and tools to insufficient number of medical personnel.

Despite the challenges in Niger State health sector, there are opportunities in this sector of the economy that can be taken advantage of, among which are the following:

Availability of MDG funds. Federal Government support. Presence of development partners (WHO/UNICEF/FHI (GHAIN), MSH, IVH etc). Encouragement of community based Public-Private Partnership and community based Health Insurance Scheme as a major vehicle for the actualization of access to health care. A deliberate policy by government to incorporate Trado-Medical Practice into State Health Care Delivery System. National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS). A substantial number of existing primary and secondary health care infrastructures. Enforcement of basic sanitation practices.

•ACTION PLAN FOR THE HEALTH SECTOR IN NIGER STATEEstablishment of a functional State Primary Health Care Development Agency.Establishment of a State Drug Management Agency.

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Health Sector

•ACTION PLAN FOR THE HEALTH SECTOR IN NIGER STATEEstablishment of drug production outfit/quality control system and reactivation of Infusion Plant.Strengthening the functions of hospitals’ Management Board to enhance its supportive services rendered to secondary health care.Provision of sufficient number of human resources for health care.Upgrading of State Epidemiological Unit to function as a centre for disease prevention and control, including construction of public health laboratories.Reactivation of Tugun Guna Rural Hospital.Renovation and equipment of eighteen (18) General Hospitals in Niger State.Establishment and equipping of Rural Hospitals in eight (8) LGAs (Agwara, Paiko, Katcha, Mashegu, Enagi, Iemu, Bosso and Uregi).Construction of three (3) General Hospitals in three Senatorial Zones (Gulu, Nasko and Sabon-wuse).Construction of 100 Primary Health Care Centres in the 25 LGAs and provision of 25 ambulances for 25 LGAs.Renovation of remaining 810 Primary Health Care Centres in the 25LGAs.Strengthening of Routine Immunization services in both public and private health facilities.Upgrading of Schools of Health Technologies and Schools of Nursing and Midwifery.Strengthening of Agency for the Control of AIDS.Strengthening State Malaria Control Programmes and other diseases.Strengthening Health Management Information System in the State/Local Government Area s.Incorporation of Trado-Medical practice into State Health Delivery System.

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Health Sector

•ACTION PLAN FOR THE HEALTH SECTOR IN NIGER STATERenovation of Leprosy Referral Hospital, Chanchaga; including road network.Conversion of IBB Specialist Hospital to State Specialist Hospital.

Other recommendations are:A State Health Policy and Law must be developed and the State Council on Health should be reactivated to supervise its implementation. Government should resuscitate the Central Medical Equipment Maintenance Unit, including the provision of transport facility. Government should develop an effective way of recruiting, motivating and retaining more personnel to avoid their movement to other lucratively paying states. The teaching and study of Basic Science subjects should be encouraged in Niger State Secondary Schools so that more students would take to medical and paramedical professions. The state should plan towards the establishment of a Faculty of Medicine by IBB University, Lapai. The state should consider bonding with health workers it sponsors postgraduate studies. The budgetary provisions for the Schools of Nursing, Midwifery and Health Technology should be directed as much as possible towards raising the standard of the institutions to enable them get accredited.

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Health Sector

FREE HEALTH SERVICESStep-wise pilot scheme should be adopted so that gradually the scheme would come to cover all health facilities. The scheme can be rolled out on disease by disease, till gradually it comes to cover most critical diseases. Existing structures can be maintained while the concept of capitation shall be put in place as it is done in NHIS. Bulk procurement by government of all the items required for free services, which will be supplied to health institutions on request. Embossing of all equipment and customized labeling of drugs to be used. Every patient should be captured by the medical record unit of each health facility to allow for adequate coverage and also effective planning of the scheme in terms of sustaining the provision of free services.

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EDUCATIONAL SECTORThe Education Sector in Niger State is facing numerous challenges, some of these problems are institutional funding, cultural orientation, ignorance among the citizenry and wrong parental beliefs. These are listed below:Low enrolment at all levels, especially Basic and Secondary Education levels. Ignorance, poverty and traditional practice on the part of parents. Gender imbalance at all levels of education. Inadequate infrastructure and poor condition of existing ones. Inadequate learning materials and equipment. Insufficient number of teachers, especially in core subjects. Large number of unqualified and non-professional teachers. Low morale of teachers as a result of poor motivation. Poorly equipped technical and vocational colleges. Prevalence of out - of -school children and large number of migrant Almajiris. Problems of data adequacy, accuracy and reliability. Lack of coordination between state-owned tertiary institutions and ministries/ departments and agencies (MDAs).Large number of illiterate adults and youths. Shortage of land for expansion of urban schools and problem of land encroachment. Large number of unemployed school leavers. Inadequate scholarship/ allowances for students of tertiary institutions. Lack of sponsorship for indigenes of the state attending Federal Government Colleges.Poor attitude of students towards their studies and poor performance in national examinations.• Irregular monitoring and inspection of schools.

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EDUCATIONAL SECTORExamination malpractices and cultism. Frequent industrial action. Weak public private partnerships in education. Large number of out - of- school disabled children and inadequate attention to gifted children at all levels. Non adherence to budgetary provisions. Obsolete curricula and out-moded teaching styles.

ACTION PLAN FOR EDUCATION IN NIGER STATEBridging the gender gap in Basic, Senior and Higher Education. Paying attention to underserved geographical areas. Schools should be established in all underserved geographical areas (including Vocational, Technical and Non-formal education centres). All school age children in these areas are now attending school.Special attention to groups with special needs.Enrichment and mainstreaming of Islamic Education. Menace of street begging (Almajiri or street children) eradicated.Enrich non-formal Education for out of school population. Non- formal Education enriched, out of School Population eradicated, access to non-formal education centred increased by 100%, learners mainstreamed to formal education. Sustainable, effective and efficient management of education system for quality and functional Education For All on 100%.Mainstreaming of recent government education initiative.Ensuring the sustainability of externally supported initiatives. Enhanced capacity building and provision of basic infrastructure at all levels of education by 2020 and strengthening the participation of communities in the management and ownership of externally supported initiatives in education.

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EDUCATIONAL SECTORACTION PLAN FOR EDUCATION IN NIGER STATESchool mapping at all levels. Ensure school maps are accessible at all levels of education.Improving management at institutional level. The educational institution to be adequately equipped and all categories staff trained in relevant areas.Ensuring relevance of curriculum at all levels. Regular monitoring and repositioning of the inspectorate service.Professional and pedagogical upgrading of teachers. Continuation of capacity building in line with teachers up-grading programme and Collaborative Teacher Training programme (CTTP).Development of sustainable quality assurance mechanism. Training and retraining of quality assurance staff.Sustainable educational teaching and learning materials policy. Provision of ICT equipment and training.Institutionalizing the monitoring of learning achievement at school level. Sustainable funding and effective financial management. Establishment of sustainable internal and external audit mechanism. * Annual budget publication and dissemination * Publication and circulation of annual budget performance.

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HOUSING SECTOR

Niger State is still in need of adequate housing for its citizenry. It is on record that fewer number of housing units have been constructed in the major towns/cities of Minna, Suleja, Kontagora, Bida and New Bussa since inception of the state while some local government headquarters do not have any. The few constructed housing have been neglected for quite some time and are in state of disrepair.

So far, only housing constructed by the Federal Government is totaling approximately 660 while the ones by the state through the Housing Scheme programmes are approximately 1,381.

Currently, approximately 1,500 housing units are under construction in Minna, Kontagora and Bida respectively. These comprise of 3 No Bedrooms, and 2 No Bedroom apartments.

Housing Challenges In Niger StateLack of up-dated master plan in the state.

Inadequate housing accommodation resulting to high rents.

Inadequate infrastructural facilities.

Lack of political will to enforce existing laws and regulations.

Growth of slums due to negligence.

Duplication of roles and responsibilities between agencies.

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HOUSING SECTORHousing Challenges In Niger StateInadequate professional capacity building.

Lack of computerized land records (GIS) .

Constraints in land acquisition.

Lack of easy access to mortgage facilities.

OPPORTUNITIES IN THE HOUSING SECTORAbundant available raw materials e.g. limestone, clay, timber, river sand, gravel, etc.

Abundant land mass.

Fairly cheap and available labour.

Reduction of poverty and creation of wealth.

A catalyst for the development of other industries – building materials, furniture, financial markets, etc.

Contributes to family pride and social stability.

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HOUSING SECTOROPPORTUNITIES IN THE HOUSING SECTORProvides collateral for capital and access to micro-credit.

A good employer of labour.

Fairly cheap land.

Proximity to the F.C.T.

ACTION PLAN IN THE HOUSING SECTORCollaboration with mortgage institutions like the Federal Mortgage Bank of Nigeria (FMBN), Federal Housing Authority (FHA) and Primary Mortgage Institutes (PMIs) in facilitating access to mortgage finance by both private sector individuals and civil servants in the State.

Collaboration and alliance with private estate developers for the building of estates in the following areas: Minna, Suleja, Kontagora and other cities of the state.

Government should adopt the concept of SITE AND SERVICES in the execution of its housing programme. Government should fast track access roads, water and electricity to all housing estates under construction, in order to avoid making their current effort a wasted one.

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HOUSING SECTOR

ACTION PLAN IN THE HOUSING SECTORFunds for maintenance of public building should be provided. A Senior Officer could be designated to ensure cleanliness, functionality of conveniences and general attractiveness of each group of public building and establishment.

Slum upgrading in the Niger State cities could be done under PPP and Development partners arrangement. For a start, government should invite HABITAT organization to undertake the upgrading of Kpakungu and Barikin-Sale slums.

Laws on sanitation should be reviewed and updated in tandem with the realities of the moment so that all stakeholders are fully involved.

Industrial layouts (redefined and more practical) should be established in urban centres and all Local Government Headquarters to attract investors and guide the development of industrial activities.

Similarly, mechanic villages, spare parts and building materials should be designated in all the major cities of the states. This will help decongest our surroundings and ease transactions.

Government should consider the establishment of international markets at Suleja and Babanna.

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MANUFACTURING AND AGRO ALLIED DEVELOPMENTThe manufacturing industry is the bedrock of any economy, given the developmental role of the sector in terms of provision of products, employment opportunities and its contribution to the Gross Domestic Product (GDP). The dominance of agriculture in Niger State makes its imperative for the emergence of agro-allied industries in the state.

Manufacturing and agro-allied industries in the state are faced with the following challenges: Lack of Political will and political instability. Weak infrastructure.Weak institutional framework.Lack of access to financial services. Insecurity of life and property. Insufficient human capacity. Low managerial competence.Financial constraints.

OPPORTUNITIES IN THE MANUFACTURING AND AGRO-ALLIED INDUSTRIESIncreased local and natural demand for manufactured and agro allied goods from Niger State. Availability of abundant raw materials.Availability of human resources.Increased stability and development. Opportunity for advanced Technology and Research Development.

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MANUFACTURING AND AGRO-ALLIED DEVELOPMENTACTION PLAN FOR THE MANUFACTURING AND AGRO-ALLIED INDUSTRIESDevelopment of a database for all the manufacturing and agro-allied industries in Niger State, for the purpose of providing incentives and access to finance in order to boost their production base and revenue.Mobilization, training and financial empowerment of youths to engage in the small scale agro-allied businesses, in the cottage, fishery, food processing, as well as in fishery and animal farming enterprises.Establishment of food and beverages processing plants. Assistance of Small & Medium Scale enterprises through training and investment support. Setting up three Small Scale processing industries for cassava, rice, maize flour cashew, mango, tomatoes and yam.Resuscitate and establish new livestock, poultry and fishery companies. Establish meat canning poultry processing and fish canning industries.Setting up wood processing companies in collaborate with development partners. Establishment of particle and wood processing companies and high quality furniture companies, plywood and particle board manufacturing companies. Establishment of textile and apparel manufacturing companies. Provision of enabling environment through physical and infrastructural facilities. Production of apparel for export into European and US markets. Setting up cotton generic and cotton yearning industries and apparel production in all the senatorial areas.

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SMALL AND MEDIUM ENTERPRISES DEVELOPMENT (SMEDAN)Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) are the engine room of any economy. They contribute significantly to the economic development of a nation. The activities of Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) determine the growth potential of a country. However, the Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs)in Nigeria are saddled with many problems that have limited their potentials and reduced their contribution in terms of employment generation, productivity and income source, which invariably has had a negative effect on standard of living of the citizenry. Some of the challenges facing the Small and Medium Enterprises(SMEs) are listed below:

Absence of Comprehensive SME Policy Blue Print. Weak institutional capacity of the SME Agency & Niger State Public Service in general. Lack of vertical and horizontal synergies in the conception, design and implementation of MSME plans, programmes and policies. Ineffective monitoring of the implementation of the SME Policies. Inadequate appreciation of the novel initiative of the state’s Microfinance strategy (one MFB per Local Government initiative). Inadequate access to funds. Inappropriate technology. Inadequate access to Institutional Support. Absence of Legal Framework. Inappropriate Policy & Regulations.Inadequate Business Information. Poor Infrastructure and Business Environment.

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SMALL AND MEDIUM ENTERPRISES DEVELOPMENT (SMEDAN)Weak infrastructure development.Improper or lack of definition of what constitutes the SMEs. Weak Agency Capacity, autonomy & public Service sector. Weak revenue base. Poor public perception of government. Poor implementation of budget. Lack of continuity in execution of government policies and programmes implementation.Paucity of statistics/data on SMEs in Nigeria. Difficult and hostile business environment. Insufficient government involvement, support and incentives. Insufficient qualitative human capital.

ACTION PLAN FOR SMALL AND MEDIUM ENTERPRISES (SMEDAN)Development of a database of all the Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) in Niger State, for the purpose of determining their challenges and facilitating access to finances for their businesses.Collaborating with the Bank of Industry(BOI), Bank of Agriculture, (BOA), and Central Bank of Nigeria(CBN) to assist entrepreneurs access to finance.Develop and review comprehensive SME Policy Blue Print, Laws & Regulations in Niger State. Identify competent consultants to facilitate and coordinate the SME Policy Blue Print, obtain government approval and implement the SME Policy blueprint.

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ACTION PLAN FOR SMALL AND MEDIUM ENTERPRISES DEVELOPMENT (SMEDAN)

Facilitate the establishment of more (at least 1) MFB in each of the Local Government Areas. Collaborate with the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) and reputable Microfinance Banks for this purpose.Resuscitation of ailing/moribund SMEs in Niger State. The SMEDAN, in conjunction with the relevant SME and Micro Finance Agency, to conduct survey of moribund SMEs and provide situation report on the SMEs.Establishment and Implementation of Micro-credit fund in Niger State by SME and Micro Finance Agency.

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Strategic Plan & Alliance in Niger State

ESTABLISHMENT OF INDUSTRIAL ZONE IN ALL THE 25 LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREAS OF THE STATE

Given the existence of abundant uncultivated arable land and its great agricultural and mineral resources, the government of Niger State should put in place measures to woo potential investors to the state. One critical way of doing this, is by establishing Industrial Estates in all the 25 local government areas of the state.

With the government offering various incentives to industries and private partners as a way of encouraging them to set up their factories in the state, mainly because of nearness to source of raw materials and the presence of three hydro power stations in the state, production cost of doing business will immensely be reduced.

Among the industries that will benefit from these largesse are the following:

The pharmaceutical, food, paper and textile industries all require huge quantities of starch for their production processes, most of which are currently imported from the developed countries. It has been estimated that the requirements of maize starch is in order of over 1.5 million kg per annum and this is likely to increase with increasing level of industrial development. Maize is widely grown in the state and the state has uncultivated land which can be put to maize cultivation for the production of starch.

The state also has potentials for establishment of castor seed processing industry.

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Strategic Plan & Alliance in Niger State (Cont’d)

ESTABLISHMENT OF INDUSTRIAL ZONE IN ALL THE 25 LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREAS OF THE STATEAs the raw variety grows well in most parts of the state, this could serve as a basis for the establishment of both small and large scale castor seed plantations. Castor oil is used in pharmaceutical industries in the manufacturing of drugs, quick drying and water resistant varnishes, enamels, oil paint, fabric printing ink and lithographic varnishes, amongst others.

Niger State also has great potential for sugarcane production in the Niger River Basin. Indeed, sugarcane is mostly produced in Agaie, Bida, Chanchaga, Lavun, Minna, Paikoro, Rafi and Shiroro LGAs.

Other potentials in the state include the establishment of fruit and vegetable canning industries, using citrus fruits such as mangoes as local raw materials.

In view of the availability of good grazing land and surface water supply, Niger State has the potential for the development of livestock, meat and dairy industries. Already, there exists in the state a ranch at Mokwa, established by the Nigeria Livestock Production Company for cattle rearing.

Another viable industry is the development of fisheries, available in abundance from the several inland water resources in the state. These include the Kainji, Shiroro and Jebba lakes, and Rivers Niger, Kaduna, Gurara, Chachanga as well as the Niger flood plains.

In addition to the above, the state also possesses potentials in development of metallic minerals such as gold, iron, copper, lead, and columbite.

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ESTABLISHMENT OF INDUSTRIAL ZONES IN ALL THE 25 LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREAS OF THE STATE

The following are the incentives that can be offered by the Niger State Government to industrialists:

Access to free land to set up their industries.

Processing of the title documents of the land at the shortness possible period.

The present of three (3) hydro power stations in Kainji, Jebba and Shiroro indicates that state has adequate industrial power.

Non payment of tax for some number of years because of the status of the industrial zone.

The nearness to source of raw materials reduce the cost of production of the industrialists.

Availability of cheap labour in the state, compared to other states of Nigeria.

Access to long term finance at a concessionary interest rate.

Low tariffs cost on export of agro-allied products.

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Suleja As the Commercial Hub of Niger StateSuleja is a city in Niger State with population of 216,578, using the census figure as at 2006. The city population, due to inflow of people from other part of the country, has really surpassed the census figure as at 2006.It is sometimes confused with the nearby city of Abuja, due to its proximity and the fact that it was originally called Abuja before the Nigerian government adopted its name from the then Emir Sulayman Barau, in 1976.

Apart from its closeness to the Nigerian federal capital, it is also recognized as a centre of excellence for traditional West African pottery, namely the world famous Ladi Kwali Pottery Centre, established by Michael Cardew in 1950. The leading exponent of this school of pottery was Dr. Ladi Kwali, who received worldwide acclaim for her works, the originals of which are on display worldwide.

Suleja is well known as an exporter of Gbari pottery. Cotton weaving and dyeing, with locally grown indigo, and mat making are traditional activities, but farming remains the chief occupation of the city.

Suleja has over the years proved to be a strategic city with its proximity to the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) and the large influx of workers, trade and commerce to the city. This development has socio-economic implications for the city in the following ways:

Increase in the cost of accommodation, especially rents, cost of land and building in the city.

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Suleja As the Commercial Hub of Niger State

Unprecedented influx of people to Suleja , because of its proximity to the Federal Capital City.

Increase in economic activities in the city.

Daily traffic congestion as a result of high vehicular movement in the city.

Accelerated economic and social development in the city.

Federal Government’s attention on the city with the work on the construction of the Suleja –Bakin Iku- Abuja Road.

Opportunities in Suleja As the Commercial Hub of Niger State

Establishment of an industrial zone in Suleja. This will boost the revenue potential of the state and further accelerate economic development in the state.

State Government, in conjunction with private property companies, should embark on construction of massive residential estates in the city, in order to exploit the rise in the price of properties in the city.

The State Government can further boost the tourism potential of Suleja by the creation of a modern village around the Zuma Rock.

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Strategic Plan & Alliance in Niger State

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S/N SECTOR OF THE STATE PARTNERSHIP WITH GOVT AGENCIES & PRIVATE PARTNERS

1 Agricultural Sector Bank of Agriculture (BOA),Nigeria ExportPromotional Council(NEPC),RockeHolding Prosprietory Ltd Botwana,Dangote Group, Central Bank of Nigeria(CBN), to Initial PPP with foreign firms

2 Energy Sector PPP arrangement with foreign Investorsin the area of Solar Energy and other hydro power stations in the State

3 Housing Sector Federal Mortgage Bank of Nigeria(FMBN)FHA, PMIs, Private Estate DevlopersFederal Ministry of Land, Housing & Urban Development, PPP InitiativesProperty Mart,UPDC, Dantata Town DevtLimited, Jedo Investment Company,

4 Small & Medium Enterprises (SMEs) Bank of Industry (BOI),NEXIM, CentralBank of Nigeria (CBN), Microfinance Banks, Nigeria Export Promotional Council(NEPC), PPP Initiatives

5 Tourist and Cultural Centres Collaboration with Maasai MaraNational Reserve in Kenya and SerengetiNational Park in Tanzania for the development of Yakaris Game Reserveother PPP Initiatives in the sector

6 Moribund Factories in the State PPP Initiatives for the restructuring of these Companies.

7 Mining Sector(Uranium, Coal, Gold & Cement) PPP driven exploration. Both local and foreign Investors

STRATEGIC ALLIANCE WITH FED. GOVT PARASTATALS & THE PRIVATE SECTOR

Conclusion

With the unexploited agricultural, national resources and tourist and cultural potential in Niger State, couple with the will power of the State Government in collaboration with the Federal Government of Nigeria and its various agencies, not discounting private sector initiatives in all facet of the State ‘s activities, Niger State will in the nearest future , achieve its goal as one of the top three economy in Nigeria.

The vast resources of the State needs to be properly harnessed in a coordinated way for the State to be self reliant in its Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) drive.

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Natural Resources

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Documents

Development Agenda For Niger State proofread