Niger State Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago has called for the establishment of Forward Operating Bases (FOBs) along strategic entry points to prevent armed bandits and other criminal elements from infiltrating the state from neighbouring regions.
Governor Bago appealed on Thursday while receiving the Theatre Commander of the Joint Taskforce North West, Operation Fansan Yamma, Major General Warrah Idris, and his entourage during a courtesy visit to the Government House, Minna.
He identified Mailaka and Kurege in Mariga Local Government Area as critical locations requiring immediate military presence. The governor also proposed the recruitment of 25,000 Niger youths to support security operations in areas affected by banditry.
“We are willing as a state to help you recruit 25,000 youths to go after these people,” he said, stressing the urgency of strengthening manpower to confront the security threats.
In a statement by the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Bologi Ibrahim, Governor Bago lamented the abandonment of assets in Kainji Lake National Park and other parts of Borgu Local Government due to persistent attacks, turning the areas into safe havens for bandits. He, however, expressed optimism that Operation Fansan Yamma would restore security and stability.
While acknowledging the efforts of the military and other security agencies, the governor appealed for the deployment of additional equipment and air support, noting the vast landmass and difficult terrain of Niger State. He also highlighted ongoing non-kinetic measures introduced by his administration to promote peace and community resilience.
He assured Major General Idris of the state government’s full cooperation in ensuring the success of the operation.
Earlier, Major General Idris explained that Operation Fansan Yamma operates through three sectors, one of which covers parts of Niger State. His visit, he said, was to assess the operational environment, interact with frontline troops, and strengthen coordination.
“The mandate given to us by the Chief of Army Staff, the Chief of Defence Staff, and the Commander-in-Chief, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, is to ensure the safety and security of all Nigerians,” he stated. “We are here to eradicate banditry, terrorism, and other criminal activities.”
He disclosed that ongoing operations in Kainji Lake National Park, Babana, and other parts of Borgu are aimed at clearing criminal hideouts and cutting off their supply routes. He added that comprehensive assessments have been completed and updated operational maps will guide subsequent actions.
Operation Fansan Yamma is a federal joint military initiative designed to combat insecurity across the North-West and parts of the North-Central region.
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