Kebbi State’s government has strongly rebutted criticism of Governor Nasir Idris’s administration, arguing that detractors stem from political shock at tangible achievements delivered since he assumed office in May 2023. The state’s Information Commissioner, Yakubu Ahmed‑BK, emphasized in multiple briefings that the governor’s frequent trips to Abuja and abroad were strategic, helping fast-track projects like the long-delayed Koko‑Zuru road by leveraging federal connections and replacing failed contractors. Αccording to the commissioner, these efforts translated into concrete benefits rather than symbolic trips.
The administration maintains that it has fulfilled between 75 and 80 percent of its campaign promises less than two years into its mandate. Key achievements include infrastructure upgrades—major urban roads in Birnin Kebbi, Yauri, and Argungu; reconstruction of the 87 km Koko‑Zuru highway; completion of a modern secretariat in Gwadangwaji; and a reconstructed central motor park to boost local commerce. Complementary investments targeted youth, women, agriculture, and security.
Critics have questioned the governor’s productivity amid these achievements. In response, spokespersons argued that opposition parties are “shocked” by the administration’s successes and resort to false narratives to remain politically relevant. They asked residents to disregard noise over Idris’s national trips, assuring that such engagements are essential and beneficial.
Governor Idris and his allies further dismissed rumours of defection from the ruling APC, describing them as baseless and malicious. Idris reaffirmed his loyalty to the party, insisting he would be the “last man standing” within the APC, and called such rumors “a huge joke” spread by political comedians.
In support of these claims, key stakeholders such as the 142-member Kebbi Special Advisers Forum publicly endorsed the governor’s leadership. During a Sallah event in April 2025, the forum praised Idris’s inclusive governance, rapid policy execution, and fulfillment of welfare commitments like new minimum wage and allowances. In recognition, the governor promptly cleared all outstanding furniture stipends for advisers and pledged regular institutional collaboration.
Critics are being dismissed as noisy bystanders in the wake of visible success, returning peace in volatile regions of the state, and record-setting infrastructure delivery. Governor Idris’s team maintains that sustainable development is being driven through merit-based appointments and transparent governance, breaking past traditions of favoritism.
By asserting fiscal discipline—with no outstanding salary or pension debts, reliance on federal support minimized, and no new borrowing—authorities highlight strength in financial stewardship. They also underline extensive humanitarian and empowerment programs, such as distributing hundreds of millions in grains, subsidized agricultural imports, and large-scale fertilizer and equipment allocation to farmers.
All told, the Kebbi State government portrays Governor Idris as a proactive leader focused on delivering democratic dividends. Detractors, according to the administration, fail to grasp the state’s evolving governance needs and are motivated by political mischief rather than constructive criticism.
Credit: Vanguard, Punch ng
