Two years into his tenure, Governor Nasir Idris of Kebbi State has moved beyond campaign promises and is steadily building a record of visible achievements. Roads, schools, health facilities and agricultural initiatives now shape the state’s landscape, raising both expectations and questions about how these strides might influence his political future ahead of 2027.
Governor Idris’s rise is rooted in his years as a teacher and labour leader. From the classroom to leading the Nigeria Union of Teachers as its national president and later serving as Deputy President of the Nigeria Labour Congress, his journey has kept him closely connected to workers, teachers and civil servants. That background set him apart during the 2023 elections where his victory, later upheld by the Supreme Court, marked a shift from elite dominated politics to a leader grounded in grassroots concerns.
Infrastructure remains one of the hallmarks of his administration. With nearly ₦79 billion earmarked for capital spending in 2024, projects have spread across the state. The long awaited reconstruction of the Koko Zuru Mahuta Dabai Road, now revived at significant cost, promises to ease trade and mobility for farming communities. In Birnin Kebbi, the dualisation of major roads and township streets has eased congestion, while Argungu, known for its cultural festival, now boasts new dual carriageways that enhance both commerce and tourism. Roads in Kebbi carry symbolic weight as they connect emirates, open markets for farmers and reduce isolation for rural dwellers.
Agriculture, the backbone of Kebbi’s economy, has also received focused attention. Through the Kaura Agricultural Development and Growth Agenda, farmers are gaining access to fertilisers, improved seedlings, solar powered irrigation pumps and small scale machinery. The programme aims to stabilise yields, promote dry season farming and encourage young people to embrace agriculture. For a state where most families depend on farming, such efforts could prove decisive in shaping voter sentiment by 2027.
True to his background in labour, Governor Idris has prioritised workers’ welfare. Salaries are paid regularly, pensions and gratuities are being cleared and families of deceased workers have received death benefits. Recruitment drives have also been launched to fill teacher shortages, while renovations and construction of new schools are underway. His credibility with teachers and civil servants continues to give his administration political goodwill.
Healthcare has seen a twin focus on upgrading facilities and expanding access. Sir Yahaya Memorial Hospital in Birnin Kebbi is undergoing major renovation with services temporarily shifted to Kalgo General Hospital. Argungu General Hospital has been rehabilitated and reopened while several local health centres have been equipped and repaired. If these projects are completed before 2027, they will strengthen his case as a governor committed to human development as well as infrastructure.
One of the most symbolic milestones of his administration is the completion of the long stalled State Secretariat in Gwadangaji. For years, it stood as a reminder of unfulfilled promises. Its completion under Idris has become a morale boost for civil servants and a visible sign of government in action.
Governor Idris has also been careful to spread projects across emirates, ensuring no region feels left behind. From flagship road projects in Zuru to urban renewal in Argungu and agricultural support in riverine areas, the administration’s footprint is broad.
Two years on, his scorecard is dominated by achievements in infrastructure, education, healthcare and agriculture. By sustaining this momentum and delivering on key projects, Idris not only strengthens his standing with workers and farmers but also positions himself strongly for re election in 2027.
