By Fatima Saka
Abuja, Nigeria – Senator Peter Jiya Ndalikali of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has placed the development of irrigation dams at the forefront of his legislative agenda, describing them as critical to unlocking the agricultural and economic potential of Niger South Senatorial District.
In an exclusive interview Wednesday, the senator detailed proposals for four key dam projects, two already backed by feasibility studies in Katcha and Bako, and two more planned for Lapai and Datti local government areas. “Agriculture is the lifeline of our people. With Niger’s vast arable land and inland waterways, the establishment of these dams will revolutionize rice farming, aquaculture, and all-year irrigation,” he said.
The Lawmaker stressed that the Upper Niger River Basin Authority is expected to oversee the implementation of these projects, which he considers “topmost” among his interventions.
The senator added that additional agricultural infrastructure, such as mini-ranches and farm access roads, are captured in the 2025 budget.
Despite being an opposition lawmaker in a Senate dominated by the All Progressives Congress (APC), Senator Jiya acknowledged that progress has been possible due to strong collaboration with the Niger State Governor, who hails from his senatorial zone and is a member of the APC. “We may belong to different parties, but we come from the same environment. The governor understands the importance of partnership and has carried everyone along, including those of us in the opposition,” Jiya said.
He emphasized that political differences have not hindered cooperation, especially when it comes to delivering development to the people. “When I carry out constituency training or distribute materials, it is for everyone whether PDP, APC, or otherwise because they all belong to our community and deserve equal benefits,” he added.
Other notable projects facilitated by the senator include the construction of a children’s ward at FMC Bida, renovation of schools, installation of an IT center at the College of Agriculture, Kumukwa, drilling of solar-powered boreholes, and provision of solar street lights across the eight local governments that make up Niger South.
On infrastructure, he cited his intervention with the Ministry of Works on the Lambata-Lapai-Agaye-Bida road, a vital route currently under construction that will ease transport and enhance rural trade.
Addressing the issue of insecurity, Senator Jiya credited Governor Etunope’s leadership and military background for fostering local vigilance and collaboration with security agencies. “There have been pockets of incidents, but the zone is relatively calm due to proactive measures and the governor’s inclusive approach,” he noted.
Responding to political speculation, Senator Jiya dismissed any suggestion of defection to the APC. “That has never been in my plans. I believe in equity and shared leadership. I had a chance to cross over in 2015 and declined. It’s not about being in the mix all the time—others must also be given the opportunity to serve.”
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On youth engagement, Senator Jiya called for an overhaul of the education curriculum to better prepare young Nigerians for innovation and self-sufficiency. “Young people today are digital natives. We need to teach them how to convert knowledge into opportunity rather than just chase government jobs,” he said.
Senator Jiya concluded by reaffirming his commitment to responsive and inclusive representation. “The people want more. While we can’t do everything, I am focused on ensuring that what we can deliver touches every corner of Niger South.”
