Niger LG Polls: Niger Gov Bago Declares Two-Day Holiday

Niger State Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago has declared Thursday, October 30, and Friday, October 31, 2025, as public holidays to enable residents prepare for the local government elections scheduled for Saturday, November 1.The announcement was made on Wednesday in Minna, with essential service providers such as hospitals, banks, and security agencies exempted from the holiday.In a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Bologi Ibrahim, Governor Bago urged eligible voters to turnout en masse and exercise their franchise peacefully for the state’s progress.“Thursday and Friday are declared public holidays, but essential services remain operational,” the statement read.Meanwhile, the Chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) in Niger State and Catholic Bishop of Kontagora Diocese, Most Rev. Dr. Bulus Dauwa Yohanna, has called on residents to actively participate in the polls and shun voter apathy.In a statement issued in Minna, Bishop Yohanna stressed that low turnout undermines democracy and urged registered voters to collect their Permanent Voter’s Cards (PVCs) from INEC offices without delay.“The November 1 chairmanship and councillorship elections are crucial for grassroots leadership. I appeal to everyone yet to collect their PVCs to do so immediately to avoid last-minute regrets,” he said.The cleric described voting as a civic duty and encouraged Christians to engage in politics—either by joining parties or making informed choices at the polls.“Let us elect trustworthy leaders who will deliver essential services and address community needs,” he added.Bishop Yohanna also urged political parties to field committed candidates and called on state leaders, local officials, and church heads to mobilise participation while dismissing claims that “votes do not count.”

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