Niger Works Ministry denies allegations of impropriety

The Niger State Ministry of Works has dismissed allegations of corrupt practices in the execution of the New Niger Projects, following the circulation of an audio clip on social media purporting that Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago uncovered misconduct involving engineers, consultants, and contractors.

In a press statement signed by the Ministry’s Public Relations Officer, Ismaila Saba Favu, the report was described as misleading, mischievous, and a calculated attempt to damage the reputation of the Ministry and its personnel.

According to the statement, the audio, originally aired during a Prestige FM news broadcast on 22 May 2025, was a deliberate attempt to incite both the Governor and the public against the Ministry. It further alleged that the report was driven by blackmail, accusing the unnamed journalist behind it of seeking personal benefits through patronage and financial inducement, and resorting to unethical means when those demands were unmet.

The Ministry claimed the journalist allegedly used advanced technology to imitate the Governor’s voice in a bid to lend authenticity to the fabricated report. It emphasised that the state government holds regular review meetings with contractors and stakeholders to ensure that ongoing projects adhere to required standards, timelines, and contractual terms.

Led by Honourable Suleiman Umar, the Ministry reiterated its unwavering commitment to transparency, accountability, and ethical service delivery, in alignment with Governor Bago’s development agenda. It called on the public to disregard the circulating audio and continue supporting the administration’s efforts to deliver quality infrastructure across the state.

The statement also issued a stern warning to individuals or groups involved in spreading false information, noting that appropriate action would be taken against such conduct. It demanded an unreserved apology from Prestige FM, Minna, and the journalist responsible for the report.