Niger State Governor Umaru Bago has commended traditional rulers across the state for their role in maintaining peace and stability amid security challenges.
The governor made the commendation on Tuesday when he received a delegation of traditional rulers led by the Chairman of the Niger State Council of Traditional Rulers and Etsu Nupe, Alhaji Yahaya Abubakar, at the Government House in Minna.
Bago thanked the traditional rulers for their condolence visit and described their expression of sympathy as a demonstration of leadership and solidarity with the government and people of Niger State.
He particularly praised traditional institutions for supporting his administration and helping to maintain law and order through ward and village heads across the state.
The governor also described the deaths of 37 artisanal miners while in the custody of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) as unfortunate, noting that the incident had attracted significant local and international attention.
Bago specifically acknowledged the efforts of the Emirs, including the Emir of Minna, Umar Faruk Bahago, in keeping their communities calm following the incident.
He said Niger State continued to face several challenges, including insecurity, but maintained that his administration was working with the Federal Government to address them and promote peace and stability.
Earlier, Etsu Nupe Yahaya Abubakar described the deaths of the 37 artisanal miners as tragic and prayed for the forgiveness of their souls.
He urged Governor Bago to remain steadfast in his leadership and prayed for continued wisdom and strength for him to lead the state.
The traditional ruler also commended the governor’s efforts towards peace and development and called on stakeholders to comply with laws and regulations governing their activities.
According to him, adherence to the law remains essential for peaceful and harmonious coexistence across Niger State.