From Olanrewaju Lawal, Birnin Kebbi
Kebbi State Governor Dr. Nasir Idris has revealed that his administration has renovated and built 1,954 schools across the state within 20 months.
Idris made this known on Tuesday in Birnin Kebbi while addressing 1,125 APC delegates from 225 wards across the 21 Local Government Areas of the state.
While thanking the delegates for their unwavering support and endorsement as the party’s flag bearer, Governor Idris highlighted the strides made by his administration in the education sector.
He disclosed that of the 1,954 schools, 1,618 were renovated while 336 new ones were constructed. He reiterated his pride in being a professional teacher, describing teachers as his “main constituency.”
“The people of Kebbi State should disregard any insinuations that I have neglected teachers. My administration has implemented the N18,000, N30,000, and N70,000 minimum wages for teachers and ensured that no teacher is owed salaries or emoluments,” the governor said.
Idris also stated that his administration had increased the retirement age of teachers to 65 years or 40 years of service, a policy he said distinguishes Kebbi State from others.
As part of his administration’s commitment to education, the governor noted that the state government continues to cover NECO and WAEC fees under its free education policy and pays registration fees for undergraduate students studying within and outside Nigeria.
Idris affirmed that he has fulfilled over 70% of his campaign promises, with people-centric projects executed across the state. He highlighted completed and ongoing projects in Yauri, Gwandu, and Argungu Emirates, assuring that Zuru Emirate would soon benefit as well.
“Birnin Kebbi, the state capital, is being transformed into an enviable city at par with its contemporaries across the country,” he added.
The governor thanked the delegates, the Speaker, and members of the State House of Assembly for their support in ensuring successful budget implementation and project execution.
Idris also announced a N135 million empowerment package for the delegates, with each receiving N120,000. He promised continued dedication to transparency, honesty, and development.
Earlier, the APC State Chairman, Alhaji Muhammad Kana-Zuru, commended the governor for his leadership and informed the delegates of their retention as party representatives till 2027.
Speaking on behalf of the delegates, Malam Muhammad Dan-Sadi assured the governor of their unwavering loyalty, describing him as their political pillar and rescuer.
Former Governor Alhaji Saidu Dakingari praised governor Idris for fulfilling his campaign promises, adding that efforts to attract defectors from opposition parties were underway.