Niger State Governor Umaru Bago has proposed the establishment of Forward Operating Bases (FOBs) at key entry points in the state, intended to prevent the infiltration of miscreants from neighbouring states.

Bago made the call when he received Theatre Commander of the Joint Taskforce North West, Operation Fansan Yamma, Major General Warrah Idris, on a courtesy visit at the Government House, Minna. The Governor had emphasised the importance of establishing FOBs in Mailaka and Kurege within Mariga Local Council.

He also proposed the recruitment of 25,000 Nigerlites to bolster security efforts.

He said, “We are willing as a state to help recruit 25,000 youths to go after these people.”

The governor expressed concern over neglected assets in Kainji Lake National Park and Borgu Local Council, attributing their vulnerability to banditry, and expressed optimism that Operation Fansan Yamma would swiftly restore peace.

Umaru Bago praised the military and security agencies for their ongoing efforts and called for additional resources, including equipment and air support, suited to the state’s geography.

In other news, Bago expressed optimism that the newly commissioned office of the Standard Organisation of Nigeria (SON) in the state will bring its services closer to the people of the state, especially farmers, traders, entrepreneurs, and manufacturers.Governor Bago stated this while delivering his keynote address during the commissioning of the SON office in Minna.

He noted that the newly completed state-of-the-art office complex in Minna is a pivotal step towards industrial growth and enhanced consumer protection in the state.

Bago, represented by the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Alhaji Abubakar Usman, described the new edifice as more than just a building, but a symbol of national progress and a testament to the commitment to quality and standards.

“This project speaks volumes about SON’s dedication to promoting standards and ensuring that Nigerian goods and services meet global expectations,” Bago noted.

The governor added, “For us in Niger State, this development aligns with our vision under the New Niger Agenda, a vision driven by innovation, productivity and accountability.”

He maintained that as the state intensifies its focus on agro-processing, renewable energy and small-scale manufacturing, the role of SON becomes imperative.

He also highlighted non-kinetic approaches being used to promote peace, emphasising the importance of cooperation for their success.

Earlier, Maj. Gen. Warrah Idris outlined his sector responsibilities, including parts of Niger State, and shared his mission to familiarise himself with operational terrain, evaluate security conditions, and boost troop morale.

General Idris reaffirmed the mandate from Nigeria’s top military leadership to eradicate banditry and terrorism.

Assessments have been completed, with plans to release detailed maps to facilitate targeted operations. The ongoing efforts in Kainji Lake National Park and Borgu aim to dismantle bandit enclaves, contributing to the broader goal of security across Nigeria’s North-West and North-Central regions.

Operation Fansan Yamma is a joint military initiative established by the federal government to address insecurity challenges in these strategic zones.