The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has presented Certificates of Return to the Governor-elect of Niger State, Umar Bago, and the elected members of the state House of Assembly on Thursday.

During the event, Bago stated that he had a five-point pact with the people of the state, adding that the pact was centered on priotising the security and welfare of the people.

He also said part of the pact would be delivering social amenities, revamping infrastructure, expanding the state’s revenue base by enhancing the economic frontiers, and upholding accountability in repositioning the state.

“This is my pledge to construct a prosperous and functional system that will meet the needs of every person in the state and I assure you that I will not betray your trust in taking the state to greater heights.

“Let it be known, dear Nigerlites, that we recognise the enormity of the tasks ahead. From security compromises to youth restiveness, we are acutely aware of the crisis and setbacks that undermine our progress.

“I promise you, we will establish the root cause and drivers of these issues and take decisive actions to nip them in the bud. We will not rest until Niger State becomes a development model. Our hands are on the plough, our eyes are trained on new goals and our hearts committed to doing well for Nigerlites.”

Bago also assured the people of the state he would run an all-inclusive and open government where no one would be given preferential treatment adding that he would create a fair and equitable society that would benefit every citizen.

The INEC National Commissioner for Niger, Kogi and Kwara states, Professor Mohammed Sani Adams, handed the certificate to the Governor-elect while the state INEC Commissioner handed the certificates to the Deputy Governor-elect and the elected members of the House.

The INEC National Commissioner while handing over the certificate said that the election in the state was one of the finest, freest and most transparent elections the country ever had.