Reported by: Oahimire Omone Precious | Edited by: Oravbiere Osayomore Promise.
In a bold escalation of efforts to tackle persistent insecurity in Niger State, Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago has issued a direct warning to armed bandits, their collaborators, and local informants: the era of impunity is over. The governor declared that “no more business as usual” would be tolerated in communities plagued by kidnappings, raids, and terror attacks, signalling a major shift in the state’s security approach.
Speaking during a public engagement in Borgu Local Government Area, Governor Bago emphasised that the state would no longer tolerate ransom payments or negotiations with bandits. He stressed that communities must take responsibility for their own protection and that security forces would be strengthened to assert state authority and protect citizens. “I will not negotiate with bandits. I will not pay ransom. Paying ransom only turns kidnapping into a business,” he said, describing the situation as a “state of war” that requires collective resistance.
The governor outlined plans to recruit and train additional security personnel to support national agencies, including expansion of state Joint Task Force units. These forces are expected to bolster patrols, improve rapid response capabilities, and reclaim areas long dominated by criminal gangs. Governor Bago also condemned the role of local informants who provide intelligence to bandits, describing this practice as a major contributor to insecurity and vowing to take strict measures against those who aid criminal activities.
Niger State has experienced a string of violent incidents in recent years, including mass kidnappings and attacks on schools. One notable event occurred in November 2025 when over 100 students were abducted from St. Mary Catholic Primary and Secondary School in Papiri, Agwara Local Government Area. The students were later rescued by federal security forces and returned to the state government. Governor Bago described the incident as a defining moment for Niger State’s approach to security.
His hardline stance has received mixed reactions. Supporters view it as a necessary response to long-standing insecurity, while critics caution that overly militarised approaches could alienate communities and risk civil liberties. Human rights advocates have urged the government to balance security operations with transparency and respect for citizens’ rights.
The governor’s declaration aligns with federal initiatives to combat terrorism, banditry, and insurgency across northern Nigeria. National security agencies have been directed to intensify operations against armed groups, particularly after recent attacks that resulted in numerous deaths and displacements. Niger State’s strategy aims to complement these federal efforts while addressing local security gaps.
Economic and social impacts of insecurity have been significant. Farmers have abandoned fields, markets have been disrupted, and transport routes have become hazardous. Education has suffered, with schools often closing temporarily during periods of heightened threat. The governor’s measures aim not only to restore safety but also to enable economic recovery and community resilience.
Traditional leaders, youth groups, and civil society organisations have been mobilised to support security efforts, promote vigilance, and engage in community-based peacebuilding. Residents are hopeful that the intensified crackdown will reduce violence, secure displaced populations, and allow daily life to return to normal.
As the new security directives take effect, authorities are focused on ensuring that operations against bandits are coordinated, effective, and sustainable. The coming months will be critical in determining whether Niger State can break the cycle of violence and restore confidence in local and state security structures.
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