Bobby Nasution Becomes First Governor to Set Up Office in Nias

North Sumatra Governor Muhammad Bobby Afif Nasution has made history as the first governor to set up office in the Kepulauan Nias since the province was established 78 years ago. The move is a concrete effort by the government to accelerate development and address underdevelopment in the island region.

“This is the first time a governor has truly set up office in Nias, striving to bring development to this area,” said Erwin Hotmansah Harahap, Head of the North Sumatra Communication and Informatics Office, on Thursday, 23 July 2026. He noted that while previous governors may have visited frequently, the concept of officially ‘working from Nias’ is unprecedented.

During his first week stationed in the Kepulauan Nias from 15 to 20 July 2026, Bobby Nasution pushed forward several strategic programmes. These included ensuring the construction of two schools—SMKN 1 Gido and SMA Unggulan Sukma—accelerating the repair of the West Nias-South Nias road, and the construction of the Mo’awo Bridge and a roll-on/roll-off port. He also focused on improving healthcare services in South Nias, promoting the revitalisation of the Tetegewo and Bawomataluo megalithic sites, and providing assistance to fishermen and communities in West Nias.

“In just one week, the impact of the governor’s presence in Nias has been extraordinary. We are working hard to realise his vision of developing Nias and catching up on its lagging progress,” Erwin added.

For the second week, Deputy Governor Surya is scheduled to continue the office stint in the Kepulauan Nias, after which Governor Bobby Nasution will return to continue resolving development issues in the region. Four districts in the Kepulauan Nias—Nias, North Nias, South Nias, and West Nias—are currently classified as disadvantaged regions, a status that has prompted the governor to prioritise accelerated development there. “The Governor and Deputy Governor will take turns working from Nias, and they will work hard to solve the problems there. We hope for the full support of the entire community,” Erwin said.