By Daniel Ebi, Minna.

The Niger State Government has commenced the profiling of herders migrating into the state from neighbouring states as part of measures to tackle banditry, cattle rustling and other security threats.

The Commissioner for Pastoral and Nomadic Affairs, Umar Sanda Rabe, disclosed this on Tuesday during the New Niger Quarterly Media Briefing organised by the Ministry of Information and Orientation in Minna.

According to the Commissioner, contrary to widespread belief, there are no established bandit camps within Niger State. 

He explained that most criminal elements responsible for attacks operate on a “hit-and-run” basis, crossing into the state from neighbouring states before retreating to their bases.

“We do not have bandit camps in Niger State. Most of those attacking our people cross from neighbouring states, carry out their attacks and immediately retreat,” he stated.

Rabe attributed the situation to Niger State’s vast borders with Kaduna, Zamfara, Kebbi, Kogi States and the Republic of Benin, noting that the state’s strategic location makes it vulnerable to incursions by criminal elements.

He disclosed that the state, which has an estimated livestock population of about four million predominantly in the Niger South Senatorial District, has also been battling cattle rustling. To address the challenge, the government has introduced stricter regulations on livestock movement.

“The Ministry is working closely with security agencies, particularly the Police, to ensure that no livestock is transported out of Niger State without the necessary legal permits,” he said.

On the recent influx of herders into parts of the state, the Commissioner revealed that the government, in collaboration with security agencies, has begun a comprehensive profiling exercise to ensure the new arrivals do not pose security risks.

He said officials have visited communities in Gbeganu, Kutigi, Lapai and Gurara, where the affected herders are being profiled and required to provide guarantors who can vouch for their character and conduct.

Rabe also highlighted the Bago administration’s commitment to the welfare and inclusion of pastoral communities, revealing that 275 nomadic schools are currently operational across the state, while 60 boreholes have been constructed in Fulani settlements to improve access to water for both humans and livestock.

Earlier, the Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Obed Nuhu Nana, said the New Niger Quarterly Media Briefing was established to deepen public understanding of government policies and programmes while promoting constructive engagement between government and citizens through the media

He noted that the initiative reflects the administration’s commitment to institutionalizing transparency, accountability and open governance by ensuring that information flows freely and citizens remain informed and actively involved in governance.