The Governor of Niger State, Mohammed Umaru Bago, has emphasized the need for a comprehensive security intervention to address the growing humanitarian crisis caused by banditry and repeated attacks in the state.
He disclosed that about 500,000 residents have been displaced from their homes, describing the situation as one of the most challenging periods in the state’s recent history.
According to the governor, many of the affected persons have sought refuge in neighbouring states, including Kebbi, Kwara, Kogi, and Kaduna, while others have relocated to the Federal Capital Territory and even the Republic of Benin.
He explained that efforts are ongoing to track displaced families, provide support, and create conditions that will allow them to safely return to their communities.
Governor Bago made the remarks during a presidential relief programme held in Borgu Local Government Area, where food supplies, nutritional items, and medical materials were distributed to thousands of vulnerable residents.
He noted that the intervention was designed to ease the hardship faced by families impacted by insecurity and displacement.
The distribution exercise formed part of a broader response aimed at stabilizing affected communities.
The governor stressed that the state government is working closely with the Federal Government, security agencies, and development partners to strengthen coordination and accelerate recovery efforts.
He stated that the ongoing security intervention involves both humanitarian support and strategic measures to dismantle criminal networks operating in the region.
According to him, restoring peace requires collaboration at all levels of government and sustained commitment from stakeholders.
He further revealed that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has directed the immediate clearing of Borgu National Park as part of the wider security intervention strategy.
The directive is intended to make the area more habitable and to enable security agencies to establish permanent operational bases.
The governor explained that criminal elements had previously exploited the terrain as a hideout, contributing to attacks that forced communities to abandon their homes and farmlands.
By enhancing security presence in the area, authorities aim to prevent further incursions and create safer conditions for farmers and residents.
The governor described the measure as a decisive step toward restoring confidence among displaced families.
He added that rebuilding trust between citizens and government institutions remains a key objective of the current efforts.
Governor Bago appealed to residents of Borgu and surrounding communities to remain patient and supportive of government initiatives.
He encouraged them to view the food distribution exercise as an immediate relief measure, while longer-term strategies are implemented.
He assured citizens that the security intervention would gradually yield positive results and help stabilize affected areas.
Community leaders also expressed optimism about the ongoing response. The Emir of Borgu, Mohammed Sani Haliru Dantoro Kitoro IV, commended the governor for demonstrating proactive leadership and for prioritizing the welfare of displaced residents.
He urged the people to stay calm and cooperate with authorities as restoration efforts continue.
Similarly, the Minister of State for Agriculture, Aliyu Sabi Abdullahi, praised the Federal Government’s swift reaction to the crisis, noting that timely support is essential in reducing the suffering of vulnerable households.
He highlighted the importance of sustained collaboration between federal and state authorities in strengthening food security and rebuilding livelihoods.
Other officials present at the event, including the Chairman of Borgu Local Government, Abdullahi Mohammed Nasir, and the State Commissioner for Humanitarian Affairs, Ahmed Ibrahim Inga, commended the combined efforts of government agencies.
They stated that the relief materials would provide temporary comfort to families who lost their homes, sources of income, and farmland due to insecurity.
Stakeholders emphasized that the success of the ongoing security intervention depends on continued coordination, transparency, and community engagement.
They noted that rebuilding affected areas will require not only military and security action but also social support, economic empowerment, and infrastructural development.
As recovery measures progress, authorities maintain that the ultimate goal is to ensure the safe return of displaced persons and restore normal life in affected communities.
Government representatives reaffirmed their commitment to sustaining the security intervention until lasting peace is achieved.
They encouraged residents to remain hopeful, assuring them that efforts are being intensified to secure farmlands, protect lives, and rebuild confidence across the state.
The situation in Niger State remains a priority for both state and federal authorities, who continue to deploy resources toward stabilizing the region.
With ongoing collaboration and structured implementation of relief and security plans, officials believe that displaced families will gradually regain stability and return to their communities in the near future.
