Gov. Sani Bello urges FGN to safeguard national monuments
Governor Abubakar Sani Bello of Niger State has urged the Federal Government of Nigeria (FGN) to protect national heritage sites that are being destroyed by foreign companies.
In a press release signed by Mary Noel-Berje, the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Governor Sani Bello made the call during the groundbreaking ceremony of the Zuma Smart City and Resort in Chachi, located behind Zuma Rock in Tafa Local Government Area.
The Governor emphasized the need for the government to safeguard national historic sites like Zuma Rock and Aso Rock, which have been designated as National Heritage Sites.
He expressed concern over the activities of multinational companies that are causing damage to these sites and appealed for government intervention to put a stop to them.
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Governor Sani Bello drew attention to the mining activities of Chinese companies in Niger State and across the country, stating that similar destruction of monuments would not be tolerated in China.
To protect Zuma Rock and its surroundings, the state executive council had designated it as the “Zuma Rock Investment and Cultural City” to attract investors and preserve its aesthetic value.
The Governor highlighted that unchecked mining activities would have posed a threat to the integrity of the rock.
He envisioned the site becoming a smart city and recreational destination, where people could appreciate the beauty of the rock.
Governor Sani Bello stressed the importance of collaborative efforts among all levels of government, traditional rulers, and community leaders to protect citizens from exploitation.
He commended Aso Savings and Loans for their interest in the project and expressed confidence that it would be successful.
Governor-elect Umar Mohammed Bago, acknowledging Niger State’s proximity to the Federal Capital, emphasized the state’s commitment to developing its tourist potential for economic gains.
Hajiya Risikatu Ahmed, the Managing Director and CEO of ASO Savings and Loans, outlined the plans for the smart city project, which aims to construct over 2,500 units of mixed housing types on 150 hectares of land.
The first phase will include 708 units comprising one-bedroom, two-bedroom, and three-bedroom semi-detached bungalows.
The smart city will also feature amenities such as schools, fire stations, police stations, well-paved roads, green areas, walkways, and renewable energy sources.
Ahmed expressed gratitude to the Governor for the partnership and unwavering support for the project.
The Commissioners for Lands and Housing, Danladi Mahmud Liman, and Information and Strategy, Emmanuel Musa Umar, representing the Chachi Community, commended the initiative and pledged their full support.
The Zuma Smart City is a collaborative project between the Niger State Government and Aso Savings and Loans, aimed at providing modern housing and a recreational center for Nigerlites and other Nigerians.
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