By Stephen Ojo, Minna
In a bold move to strengthen the fight against insecurity, Niger State Governor, Mohammed Umaru Bago, has called on the Nigerian military to recruit 25,000 youths from the state into the armed forces.
Governor Bago made the call while receiving the Theatre Commander of the Joint Taskforce, Operation “Fansan Yamma”, Major General Warrah Idris, at the Government House, Minna.
He emphasized the need to establish additional Forward Operating Bases (FOBs) in strategic flashpoints—particularly Mailaka and Kurege in Mariga Local Government Area—to stop the influx of bandits from neighbouring states.
“We are willing as a state to help recruit 25,000 youths who are ready to defend our land and go after these criminals,” Governor Bago stated.
The governor also expressed deep concern over the deteriorating security situation around Kainji Lake National Park and Borgu Local Government, noting that bandit activities have crippled tourism and made the areas safe havens for criminals.
He, however, expressed optimism that Operation Fansan Yamma would reclaim the troubled zones and restore peace in no time.
In his remarks, Major General Idris assured the governor of the military’s determination to “eradicate banditry, terrorism, and all forms of criminality” in the North West.
He disclosed that three operational sectors under his command cover parts of Niger State, adding that the military has intensified operations around Kainji Lake National Park and Babana to flush out criminal elements.
“We are here to execute our task to the last limit,” General Idris affirmed.
With the renewed synergy between the state government and the military, hopes are high that Niger State may soon reclaim its long-lost peace and security.