The Governor of Kebbi State, Dr Nasir Idris Kauran Gwandu has assured that he would consult with traditional rulers and major stakeholders in the state before awarding any contract to avoid misplacement of priority.
He made the disclosure when he received the Emir of Zuru, retired Maj-Gen. Muhammad Sani-Sami on a courtesy visit at Government House, Birnin Kebbi on Tuesday.
The governor said: “We will consult with traditional rulers before embacking on any project to avoid misplacement of priority in project execution.
“We want to execute projects that have direct bearing with people. We don’t want a situation where Government will execute a project that is not the priority of people.”
Dr Nasir Idris solicited the support and cooperation of all and sundry to be able to bring the desired change across all sectors of the economy.
The governor described Zuru people as hard working individuals who always committed to fetching for themselves.
“Everybody knew that Zuru are not lazy people, they are brave people who always stand on their feet. Farming remained one of their major sources of income but security challenges is dragging the business backward.
“We will do everything possible to restore peace in Zuru land. The present administration will tackle the issues of insecurity head-on, particularly in Zuru emirate, to enable people not only go back to their farms but also comfortably sleep with their two eyes close,” he noted.
Idris assured people of the state that his administration would not victimise anybody for not supporting his gubernatorial ambition during the 2023 general elections.
He said: “As a leader, you stood firm to ensure our victory, yet, we knew some people refused to vote for us. However, being a teacher, I have forgiven everybody including those who voted for us and those who didn’t vote for us.
“Everybody should come forward and contribute his quota on ways to move our people and our dear state forward. I have made some promises in your emirate and by the grace of God Almighty we are going fulfil these promises.”
While appreciating the Emir for the visit, the governor noted with satisfaction that the monarch was the first traditional ruler in the state to personally pay a congratulatory visit to him.
Earlier, the Emir told the governor that they were in Government House not only for a congratulatory visit but also to re-afirm their solidarity, loyalty and support to the new administration.
The monarch expressed optimism that as a technocrat and a seasoned unionist, he had no doubt that the governor would bring positive changes to the state.
He said: “We believe you will bring to bear your experiences and leadership to build a better and more prosperous Kebbi State to put endless smile on the faces of people of Kebbi given your track records of achievements.
“We hope the issue of insecurity in Zuru emirate, lack of good roads and other infrastructure will be among your priorities when you settle down. The current security situation on the area has been so alarming, our farmers are being chased out of their farmlands.