Retired Maj.-Gen. Muhammadu Abdullahi-Garba has praised Governor Umar Bago of Niger State for his inclusive leadership, saying the All Progressives Congress (APC) is “waxing stronger” under his administration.
In an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Sunday, Garba said Bago’s transparent governance and people-oriented policies had strengthened the party’s grassroots appeal.
“Bago’s government is transparent, open and all-inclusive. With this positive trend, the party will go far in 2027,” he stated.
Commenting on Saturday’s local government elections, Garba described the exercise as credible and well-organised.
“The poll was fantastic. We give glory to God, especially with the type of leader we have in Bago,” he said.
The former military officer noted that Bago’s rise through democratic politics distinguished him from previous governors who were handpicked for office.
“In Niger’s history, most governors were anointed. This is the first time we have a leader who truly grew through the process of politicking,” he said.
He commended Bago’s political journey from the legislature to the executive, noting that his experience as a three-term National Assembly member had prepared him for governance.
“He has garnered bronze, silver and gold — the bronze marked his beginning, the silver strengthened his base, and the gold is the governorship that crowned his service,” Garba said.
Garba described the governor as a leader deeply committed to the welfare of citizens and loyal to his associates.
“The governor’s preoccupation has always been the welfare of his people. He never quarrels with his allies and always extends goodwill towards them,” he added.
He also commended the State Independent Electoral Commission for conducting what he called a free, fair and transparent local government election.
