The Niger State Governor, Mohammed Bago, has defended his decision to rename the Abubakar Imam International Airport after President Bola Tinubu, citing the need for a perfect fit in naming conventions.
The governor emphasized that renaming the State Polytechnic Zungeru after Abubakar Imam was a more fitting tribute to the late literary icon.
Bago further asserted that the decision had the approval of the president.
The last-minute name change, announced during a live interview on TVC News at 10, stirred controversy, with the governor’s Chief Press Secretary, Bologi Ibrahim, clarifying the rationale behind the move, as reported by The Punch.
In an effort to placate Niger citizens, the Governor also renamed the State Polytechnic Zungeru after Abubakar Imam, accentuating the alignment of “a square peg in a square hole.”
Bago reiterated the significance of honoring Abubakar Imam’s contributions to the State and northern Nigeria, suggesting that naming academic institutions after the literary icon was most appropriate.
Addressing criticism over the swift renaming of the airport, Bago emphasized gratitude towards President Tinubu for approving the establishment of the first special Airport Agro-Processing Free Zone in Nigeria, along with his broader contributions to nation-building.
“It is in appreciation of the President, for approving the State to establish the first special Airport Agro-Processing Free Zone in Nigeria and his immense contributions to nation building.
“The State Government under my leadership has been enjoying tremendous support from the Tinubu-led government and the President is an astute politician and a great leader that should be celebrated,” he sa
The Governor stressed that the decision was made in consultation with relevant stakeholders, including the State Executive Council members, and with the President’s approval.
