Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago of Niger State has appealed for the recruitment of 25,000 residents to support security operations across communities affected by rising insecurity. The governor made this call in Minna while hosting the Theatre Commander of the Joint Taskforce North West, Operation Fansan Yamma, Maj. Gen. Warrah Idris, and his team during a courtesy visit. The governor said the state needs stronger military presence and effective security strategies to curb criminal activities coming from neighbouring states.
He stressed the need for the establishment of Forward Operating Bases to block key routes used by miscreants. According to him, these bases are required in Mailaka and Kurege in the Mariga local government area. He explained that the state is ready to support the military with manpower, saying, “We are willing as a state to help you to recruit 25,000 youths to go after these people.” The governor also highlighted the importance of national security investment and community safety in the fight against banditry.
Governor Bago raised concerns about neglected assets in Kainji Lake National Park and other locations in Borgu Local Government, noting that these areas have become safe havens for bandits. He expressed confidence that Operation Fansan Yamma will address the insecurity challenges and restore peace. He acknowledged the efforts of the military and security agencies but appealed for additional equipment and air components due to the size of the state. He also mentioned ongoing non-kinetic measures adopted by his administration to support long-term peace and development.
Maj. Gen. Warrah Idris explained that sectors 1, 2, and 3 are under his command, with one covering parts of Niger State. He said his visit was to familiarise himself with the terrain, assess security situations, and boost the morale of troops. According to him, the mandate from the Chief of Army Staff, the Chief of Defence Staff, and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is to ensure the safety of citizens. He stated, “We are here to ensure that the task given is executed to the last limit. We are here to ensure that we eradicate banditry, terrorism, and other acts of crime.”
The theatre commander added that assessments have been completed, and maps for necessary security actions will be released soon. He confirmed ongoing operations in Kainji Lake National Park, Babana, and other areas in Borgu to weaken criminal groups. Operation Fansan Yamma remains a key joint military initiative of the federal government aimed at tackling insecurity across the North-West and parts of the North-Central region.
