
08/07/2025
PRESS RELEASE.....
*DOUBLE HISTORIC MOMENT IN NIGER STATE POLITICS: HON. NDAGI ZAKARI KINBOKUN DEFECTS FROM PDP TO APC AND NIGER STATE HOUSE OF ASSEMBLY PASSES HYDROCARBON AND MINERALS DEVELOPMENT AGENCY BILL INTO LAW*
In a significant development that is set to reshape the political landscape of Niger State, Hon. Ndagi Zakari Kinbokun, the Member Representing Mokwa Constituency and Chairman of the House Standing Committee on Sports Development, has officially defected from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to join the All Progressive Congress (APC). This move is a major boost to the APC's strength in the state and demonstrates the party's growing appeal to lawmakers and constituents alike.
The defection was announced today during the plenary session of the Niger State House of Assembly, with the Speaker of the House, Rt. Hon. Barr. (Dr.) Abdulmalik Mohammed Sarkin-Daji, reading out the letter of resignation signed by Hon. Zakari Kinbokun. In the letter, Hon. Kinbokun stated that after thorough consultation with critical stakeholders from his constituency, he had come to the realization that his values and vision for the development of Mokwa Constituency are better aligned with the APC. This decision is a testament to the APC's commitment to good governance and development, which has resonated with Hon. Kinbokun and many others in the state.
Hon. Kinbokun expressed his excitement about the opportunities that this new affiliation will bring and confidence that it will enable him to serve his constituents more effectively. He commended the present administration under the leadership of Governor Mohammed Umar Bago for the achievements recorded so far in the area of infrastructural development and the Agricultural revolution programs in the state. These initiatives have had a positive impact on the lives of many Niger State residents, and Hon. Kinbokun's defection is a vote of confidence in the APC's policies and programs.
The lawmaker also expressed gratitude to the Speaker and Members of the House for the support and collaboration they have shared during his tenure as a Member of the Assembly. He appreciated the opportunity to have worked with such a dedicated team and was proud of the progress they have made together. This sense of camaraderie and shared purpose will undoubtedly continue to drive Hon. Kinbokun's work in the Assembly, even as he transitions to the APC.
Hon. Kinbokun assured his constituents of his commitment to ensuring a smooth transition and to continuing to serve the people of Mokwa Constituency with the same level of dedication and commitment that has defined his tenure in the Assembly. He is confident that his new affiliation will bring new opportunities for growth and development to Mokwa Constituency. The people of Mokwa Constituency and the APC faithfuls are eagerly awaiting the impact of this defection on the constituency's development and the party's fortunes in the state.
In a related development, the Niger State House of Assembly has passed into law a Bill for a law to provide for the Establishment of Niger State Hydrocarbon and Minerals Development Agency and for other connected purposes 2024. This Bill is aimed at establishing a Hydrocarbon and Minerals Development Agency in Niger State to oversee the exploration, development, and management of hydrocarbon resources in the state.
The Bill was passed after the House Standing Committee on Environment and Climate Change, Minerals Resources, Power, and Renewable Energy presented its report, led by its Chairman, Hon. Mohammed Nura Garba, Member Representing Agwara Constituency. The Committee's report highlighted the benefits of the proposed Bill, including encouraging investments in the hydrocarbon sector, promoting economic growth through hydrocarbon and minerals development, enhancing environmental management and protection, and ensuring revenue generation for the state through hydrocarbon activities.
The Speaker, Rt. Hon. Barr. Abdulmalik Mohammed Sarkin-Daji, directed the Clerk of the House, Mall. Farouq Umar Isah, to transmit clean copies of the Bill to the Executive for assent. This development marks a significant milestone in the state's efforts to harness its hydrocarbon and mineral resources for the benefit of its citizens.
The Speaker also congratulated the Chairman and Members of the Committee for a job well done, commending their dedication and hard work in ensuring the passage of the Bill
Mairo Adamu Mani
Ag. HOD, Media and Public Relations Directorates
Niger State House of Assembly
July 08, 2025.