Niger State Governor, Mohammed Bago, has said concerns about securing a second term in 2027 have prevented him from taking firm action against some underperforming political appointees.
The governor made the disclosure on Friday during the inauguration of newly appointed commissioners, as well as elected chairmen and vice-chairmen of local government areas in the state.
Bago explained that the fear of political backlash had made him cautious about dismissing officials who were not delivering on their responsibilities.
He also called for the adoption of a single-term tenure for elective and political office holders, arguing that it would promote efficiency and reduce complacency in governance.
“I am an advocate of a single term of governance. Everything in Nigeria is now being tied to politics. There are things I would have done today, but I am deferring them until after the election,” Bago said.
The governor lamented that some appointees had failed examinations several times and were unable to earn promotion, yet continued to constitute a burden on the system.
“If I had a single term, I would have been more decisive. Special advisers, board directors, and others would have given their best because they would have just one shot in governance.”
Bago noted that excessive procrastination remained a major obstacle to effective governance, stressing the need for leaders to act decisively in the present.
“Everybody is thinking about tomorrow, tomorrow, tomorrow. Our tomorrow is today.”
He also reaffirmed his support for state and community policing, saying decentralised policing would strengthen security and promote social justice.
“State police is a reality. We need community policing to ensure social justice and safety in our society,” he added.