Even If I Sell Niger State, Is It Your Business? – Governor Bago Defends Loan Strategy Amid Criticism

Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago of Niger State has come under sharp criticism following his blunt remarks on public concerns about his government’s financial strategy. The governor, speaking during a stakeholders’ meeting with representatives from Tafa, Gurara, and Suleja local governments on August 11, 2025, dismissed anxieties about his administration’s approach to funding projects. He argued that his critics have no right to interfere in his policies, insisting that even if he decided to “sell Niger State” to raise funds, it should not be anyone’s business.

The statement, captured in a viral video released by SaharaReporters, has since sparked heated debate across social and political circles, with many Nigerians questioning his choice of words and approach to governance.

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Governor Bago’s Defense on Borrowing

Governor Bago’s response comes amid growing unease over whether Niger State is sinking deeper into debt under his leadership. Critics and concerned residents have pointed to the governor’s alleged loan pursuits as a source of financial instability, warning that it could mortgage the future of the state.

However, the governor dismissed these fears, insisting that he has not yet begun taking loans. “People are worried I’m collecting loans, but I haven’t started acquiring loans yet. This is just the beginning, and for the past administrations that collected loans, what did they do with them?” he asked.

Defending his strategy, Bago stressed that unlike his predecessors, his government will ensure accountability and transparency in the management of borrowed funds. He vowed to leave office after eight years with “zero debt,” promising to provide a clear balance sheet showing what he inherited and what he achieved by the end of his administration.

“People should wait till after my eight-year tenure in office to question my worth,” he said. “I will also show you that this is what I met on the ground and this is what I’m leaving the state with.”

Critics Raise Concerns Over Governance

Despite his assurances, residents and political observers remain unconvinced. Many argue that the governor’s comments reflect insensitivity to the concerns of citizens, especially in a state where poverty, unemployment, and poor infrastructure continue to hinder development.

Bago’s metaphor about “selling Niger State” has been described by critics as reckless, further fueling skepticism about his administration’s financial discipline. Civil society groups have warned that such statements risk eroding public trust and may discourage future investor confidence in the state.

The governor’s dismissive tone also drew backlash, with some accusing him of undermining democratic accountability by suggesting that citizens should wait until the end of his tenure before evaluating his performance. Analysts argue that accountability in governance is continuous and cannot be postponed until the expiration of an administration.

Addressing Infrastructure Deficits

Governor Bago also seized the opportunity to address criticisms regarding the state of infrastructure in Niger. Responding to claims that schools, hospitals, and roads have deteriorated under his watch, he insisted that the decay was inherited from past administrations.

“They said schools, hospitals, and roads have gone bad. Is it my administration’s responsibility for it, or aren’t we just repairing what we met?” he asked.

He argued that his administration is in the process of repairing dilapidated infrastructure and should not be held solely responsible for problems that predate his tenure. Bago accused critics of exaggerating the state of affairs, pointing out that he has only spent two years in office and cannot be blamed for long-standing challenges.

“People are posting and saying that just two years of my tenure, I have damaged schools, hospitals, and roads. We will not castigate one another because we belong to the same party; we are not fools,” he said.

Political Undertones of the Statement

The governor’s controversial remarks were delivered at a stakeholders’ engagement meeting that doubled as a platform for his second-term endorsement by local government representatives. Analysts believe that his tone was partly influenced by political maneuvering, as he sought to consolidate support among party loyalists.

While his allies praised his boldness, his critics contend that such rhetoric risks alienating citizens who are already skeptical about governance in Niger State. The tension underscores the broader national debate on borrowing, public debt, and accountability in governance, particularly in states grappling with economic challenges.

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The Road Ahead for Niger State

As Niger State continues to face pressing development needs, the governor’s handling of debt and infrastructure will remain under close scrutiny. His promise to leave the state debt-free by the end of his tenure may provide some reassurance, but the public will demand tangible results in the short term.

Observers note that transparency in loan acquisition and management will be crucial in convincing skeptics. Without concrete evidence of progress in education, healthcare, and road infrastructure, the governor’s assurances may ring hollow.

For now, Governor Bago’s comments have intensified the spotlight on his administration, highlighting the delicate balance between bold policy decisions and the need for cautious communication. Whether his strategy will restore trust or deepen public mistrust remains to be seen as Niger State navigates its development path under his leadership.