Niger State profiles herders to regulate activities and enhance security

Umar Sanda Rabe, the Commissioner for Nomadic and Pastoral Affairs, stated that any pastoralist entering the state without an official permit will be considered a rustler. This policy aims to monitor pastoralists and their activities, especially in border local government areas. Before the Ministry of Nomadic and Pastoral Affairs was established on August 23, 2022, the state lacked accurate data on pastoralists and cattle.

The government plans to create a comprehensive database within three years, detailing pastoralists, their livestock, and locations. Rabe noted that with Governor Mohammed Bago's support, they now have data on pastoralist group leaders and their associations, which will help provide essential social amenities. The Niger State government has also introduced support programs for women and youth in pastoral communities and is developing strategies to address conflicts, which are often land disputes rather than herder-farmer clashes.

The Niger State Commissioner of Police, Adamu Elleman, represented by SP Wasiu Abiodun, attributed the recent influx of pastoralists to security challenges in neighboring states. He assured that the police would collaborate with the state government and other security agencies to profile incoming pastoralists and prevent criminal elements from exploiting freedom of movement to threaten public safety.