Niger State Government, in a significant collaboration with the Federal Government, has announced concrete plans to launch a decisive joint military operation aimed at dislodging terrorist elements from their hideouts in the vast Kainji Lake forest area.
Condolence Visit Unveils Security Blueprint
The strategy was revealed by Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago on 14 January 2026 during a condolence visit to the Emir of Borgu, Alh. Muhammad Haliru Dantoro Kitoro IV, at his palace in New Bussa. The governor was there to sympathize with the monarch and the entire Borgu Emirate over recent deadly terrorist attacks.
Governor Bago expressed deep concern over the unchecked influx of unprofiled individuals into the Emirate, identifying it as a major security loophole. He also lamented how the activities of informants within communities have consistently thwarted the efforts of security agencies.
Two-Month Ultimatum and Call for Collective Action
In a decisive move, the governor issued a two-month ultimatum to all inhabitants of hamlets surrounding Kainji Lake to vacate the area to facilitate the security operation. He stated that the Borgu Emirate Council would oversee their resettlement.
"The Emirate Council must rise to its responsibility," Governor Bago urged, tasking the traditional institution to forge a stronger alliance with security agencies and governments at all levels to eradicate insecurity. He extended his heartfelt condolences to the families who lost loved ones in the attacks.
Federal Backing and Traditional Institution's Pledge
Echoing the state's commitment, the Minister of State for Agriculture and Food Security, Dr Aliyu Sabi Abdullahi, affirmed the Federal Government's full interest and support in restoring peace and security to the region. He endorsed the relocation plan as a necessary step towards reclaiming the forest for community use.
In his response, the Emir of Borgu pledged his council's unwavering cooperation with the authorities. He vowed to work diligently to identify and help prosecute informants betraying the community, emphasizing that the security of lives and property is paramount and no effort would be spared in achieving it. The Emir also thanked the governor for the visit and reassured him of continued support for his administration's people-oriented policies.
