By Abdullahi Tukur Birnin Kebbi | The Bureau News
The Governor of Kebbi State, Comrade Nasir Idris, has sworn in Alhaji Garba Hassan Warrah as the new Commissioner for Solid Minerals Development and Mining. He also inaugurated the newly established Kebbi State Mining Development Agency, appointing Abdullahi Buhari Warrah as its Managing Director.
The ceremony took place at the Government House, Birnin Kebbi, on Tuesday, where the oath of office was administered by the State Chief Judge, Justice Umar Abubakar, in the presence of Governor Idris.
Mining Commissioner Takes Over After Suspension
The new commissioner, Alh. Garba Hassan Warrah, replaces Alhaji Haliru Aliyu Muhammad Wasagu, who was suspended by the governor. Governor Idris congratulated the appointees, emphasizing that their appointments were strictly based on merit and track record.
“I believe in your goodwill and performance, that is why you were entrusted with this responsibility. But if you fail to deliver, we will show you the way out,” Idris warned.
Revenue Generation A Priority
Governor Idris stressed that the new commissioner and the agency must prioritize boosting revenue for the state. He noted that the government had already invested heavily in securing mining sites such as Ngaski, yet the returns had been disappointing.
According to him, the establishment of the Mining Development Agency and the appointment of competent leadership were deliberate steps to reposition the solid minerals sector.
Diversifying Beyond Federal Allocation
The governor reiterated that Kebbi State could not rely solely on federal allocation to fund its developmental needs. He called for diversification and tasked the appointees with producing tangible results within six months.
“No government can afford to joke with revenue generation. That is why we created this agency and appointed competent people to drive it,” he stated.
Governor Idris assured the new appointees of his full support while urging them to justify the confidence reposed in them.
