Niger State

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

Governor Umar Bago has directed security agencies to arrest individuals with dreadlocks in Minna, the state capital, as part of a broader clampdown on crime.  

During a high-level security meeting on Tuesday, Governor Bago ordered that those with dreadlocks be arrested, forcibly shaved, and fined. “We will have zero tolerance for rascality. Anybody found with dreadlocks should be arrested, their hair barbed, and fined,” he declared.  

The governor also banned commercial motorcycles and tricycles from operating between 6 p.m. and 6 a.m., except in cases of medical emergencies. Additionally, he warned parents to caution their children, vowing a “fire-for-fire” approach to crime.  

Traditional rulers were instructed to document all residents in their domains, while houses harbouring criminals faced demolition. “Niger State is not for useless people,” Bago stated.

The measures aim to curb rising criminality and restore order in the state.

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

Shafi’u Bawa, an Assistant Superintendent of Police (ASP) attached to the 61 Police Mobile Force in Kontagora, Niger State, has reportedly taken his own life.  

The incident occurred on Saturday afternoon, 8 February 2025, when the officer was found hanging from the ceiling of his room. His father, Mallam Usman Bawa, alerted the authorities after discovering the tragic scene.  

The Niger State Police Command spokesperson, SP Wasiu Abiodun, confirmed the incident, stating that the deceased’s body has been released to his family for burial.  

“The reason behind his action is yet to be determined, and the matter is under investigation,” Abiodun stated.  

Further details will be provided as the investigation progresses.

By Abubakar Musa Idris 

Tragedy struck again in Nigeria on Saturday as a devastating fuel tanker explosion claimed lives and left others injured, highlighting the alarming reoccurrence of such disasters.

Just last year, specifically on 15 October 2024, a fuel tanker in Majiya town, Jigawa State, erupted in flames after residents rushed out to scoop petrol from it. This tragic incident claimed the lives of over 150 people, leaving countless others injured and traumatised. Sadly, this year, we have witnessed another devastating fuel tanker accident in the Dikko area of Niger State, resulting in the loss of over 80 lives.

The frequency of these accidents raises a troubling question: Why do Nigerians continue to risk their lives by scooping fuel from tankers, despite the clear dangers? Is it a lack of awareness regarding the associated risks, or is it the harsh economic situation that compels people to take such drastic measures?

According to the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), Nigeria recorded over 300 fuel tanker accidents between 2020 and 2022. Alarmingly, the FRSC listed fuel tanker accidents as one of the leading causes of road crashes in 2020, resulting in more than 535 fatalities.

Experts attribute the persistence of fuel scooping to a combination of factors, including poverty, unemployment, and a lack of access to affordable fuel. “Many Nigerians are forced to scoop fuel due to economic necessity,” says Dr. Afolabi, a safety expert. “However, this practice is not only hazardous but also perpetuates a culture of recklessness.”

Regrettably, the recent fuel tanker accident in Nigeria is not an isolated incident. Just last year, a fuel tanker accident in Minna, Niger State, claimed the lives of over 50 individuals. In 2022, a fuel tanker crashed on the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway, resulting in 12 fatalities. Comparable incidents have taken place in Kaduna, leading to substantial loss of life and property. These recurring tragedies underscore the urgent need for action to tackle the root causes of fuel tanker accidents in Nigeria.

The dangers of fuel scooping are genuine and severe. The risks of explosions, fires, and spills are always present, and the consequences can be devastating.

The government and relevant stakeholders must take concrete steps to address this issue. One way to combat the menace of fuel scooping and ensure road safety is to launch targeted public education and awareness campaigns. 

 It is essential to launch targeted public education and awareness campaigns. These campaigns should concentrate on informing the public about the dangers of fuel scooping, the significance of road safety, and the repercussions of reckless behaviour. Raising awareness and fostering a culture of safety are vital steps towards reducing the frequency of fuel tanker accidents and saving lives.

Enhancing safety regulations is another critical strategy for preventing fuel scooping and ensuring accountability. Strengthening existing laws and regulations and enforcing stricter safety standards for fuel transportation, storage, and handling can help prevent accidents. This, in turn, reduces the risk of fuel tanker accidents and protects lives and property.

Investing in enhanced road infrastructure and fuel storage facilities is crucial for minimising the risk of accidents and spills. Upgrading roads to alleviate congestion and enhance safety, alongside constructing modern fuel storage facilities that comply with international safety standards, are vital measures to consider. Such investments not only mitigate the risk of fuel tanker accidents but also safeguard lives and property, whilst fostering economic growth and development.

As Nigerians mourn the lives lost in these tragic accidents, we must also recognize the need for collective action. The government, stakeholders, and individuals must join forces to address the root causes of fuel scooping and ensure a safer future for all Nigerians.

These fuel tanker tragedies represent more than just statistics; they serve as a stark reminder of the human cost of systemic failures. While immediate actions like public education and stricter regulations are crucial, the real test lies in Nigeria’s ability to create an environment where citizens no longer feel compelled to risk their lives for fuel. Until we achieve this fundamental change, we will continue to count losses instead of progress.

Abubakar Musa Idris is a PRNigeria fellow and wrote via abkidris99@gmail.com.

By Salim Yunusa

Days ago, a fuel tanker explosion took the lives of over 70 people at the well-known Dikko Junction, located along the Kaduna-Abuja highway in Niger State. This incident follows closely after another fuel tanker explosion in Jigawa in October 2024, which resulted in the deaths of more than 200 people.

At this point, one begins to sound like a broken record: the recurring incessant pleas for regulation, caution, and prayers. Enough with the “Allah shi kare”, or the performative prayers for the deceased. It has to stop. Now.

In a country with barely motorable roads disguised as highways, these tankers—dangerously overloaded, evidently faulty, and disturbingly manned by the worst drivers—sway and saunter, damaging the roads and bridges due to overload, causing accidents, and, in recent times, overturning their contents, spilling highly inflammable fuel on the road. This leads to disastrous fire incidents, causing devastating loss of lives and properties.

What usually follows are photo ops by government officials who do little to nothing to prevent these incidents from reoccurring. These are followed by visits to the hospitals and donations of a paltry sum of money to the victims’ families. This has to stop. Now.

Many issues cause the loss of lives of this magnitude. We must address them through regulations and stringent fines for erring drivers and their employers. We must also properly deploy state and federal might in enforcing adequate commercial and residential setbacks from highways. We must embark on massive enlightenment and sensitisation against the dangers of highly inflammable substances and, above all, poverty, which would make one desperate enough to go scooping up spilt gas on a highway! 

Nonetheless, enforcement has to be done on people themselves because repeated tragedies don’t serve as lessons against future occurrences. People have to learn and understand that you run away from danger, not into it, for mere fuel scoops or to record yourself to get a few clicks on social media. This is where the National Orientation Agency comes into the picture, partnering with social media influencers, radio and TV stations, among other important stakeholders in the society, to enlighten and educate the public on the dangers surrounding looting of overturned items from trucks, be it Spaghetti, rice or fuel.

We must reconsider using pipelines to transport petroleum products in this country. The alarming number of tankers on our roads poses significant risks. Furthermore, it’s crucial to raise awareness that looting or stealing from accident scenes is a serious offence punishable by law and God.

It is tiring at this point: the rinse-and-repeat incidents, the performative grief, the prayers and promises to address issues—all to be forgotten in three business days. How many more people have to die before the government acts? Thoughts and prayers over unavoidable incidents are a most, but choosing thoughts and prayers over avoidable incidents is a clear choice. The government should act, and it should act now—swiftly, decisively.

May the Almighty save us from us and give us the strength to do the right thing–no matter whose ox is gored!

Salim Yunusa writes from Abuja, Nigeria, and can be reached via syunusa@gmail.com

By Uzair Adam 

A review of Niger State’s budget performance report has revealed that the state government allocated N1.2 billion to celebrations and special occasions in the first nine months of 2024. 

This expenditure represents about 4% of the state’s internally generated revenue (IGR), which totalled N29.2 billion from January to September.

The spending has raised concerns, particularly as the state grapples with severe developmental and security issues. 

Recently, Niger State has faced violent attacks by bandits, resulting in the deaths of ten residents and the destruction of homes. 

Additionally, widespread flooding has devastated over 300 communities, with reports indicating eleven lives lost and 245 schools damaged.

Despite these challenges, the budget shows zero allocation for capital expenditures within the Ministry of Rural Development and the Rural Water and Sanitation Agency. 

This lack of investment comes at a time when a cholera outbreak has claimed sixteen lives and left 165 others infected. 

Due to the absence of potable water, many residents have resorted to using stagnant water sources shared with livestock.

In contrast, the Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education received only N196 million in capital funds, while the state’s basic healthcare sector saw no allocation for critical infrastructure improvements. 

Reports indicate that 71% of households in Niger lack adequate sanitary facilities, and half the population lacks access to clean drinking water, underscoring the pressing need for investment in essential services.

Amid claims of limited resources, Niger State’s spending priorities have sparked concern. 

The state currently has 1.6 million people living in poverty and an unemployment rate of 38.8%.

By Uzair Adam

The Vice President, Senator Kashim Shettima, has announced that the federal government is implementing measures to ensure the return of residents displaced by insecurity and floods in Niger State.

Speaking during a visit to an Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) camp in Gwada, Shiroro Local Government Area, Shettima expressed the administration’s commitment to alleviating the suffering of affected individuals.

He stated that his visit was a directive from President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to assess the conditions of the displaced residents and assure them of government support.

The Vice President also launched the distribution of relief materials at the camp, highlighting that each state had received N3 billion to address the impacts of floods and security challenges.

Shettima emphasized that states like Niger, Borno, Sokoto, Bayelsa, and Jigawa, which have been significantly affected by these crises, would receive additional support from the federal government.

He called on citizens and organizations to assist the government in providing relief to those affected by disasters across the country.

The Vice President was joined by other key officials, including the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, and the Minister of State for Agriculture, Senator Aliyu Sabi.

Niger State Governor, Mohammed Umaru Bago, disclosed that 14 out of the 25 local government areas in the state had experienced flooding this year, resulting in loss of lives and property.

By Abdullahi Muhammad Amir

Weeks ago, the media aides of the Niger state Governor, Umaru Mohammed Bago, were all over social media sharing stories and clips of the Governor’s promise of the sum of N200,000 to each corps member posted to the state under the Batch B stream one. 

It is commendable that the Governor allocated N5 billion to construct the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) State Permanent Orientation Camp located at Paiko. The camp has been in a decrepit state for quite some time. 

According to the story, the Governor also gave the over one thousand corps members in batch B stream one a trailer of rice and 20 cattle as a state bonus. These are all good gestures.

However, I feel there are more important things to do than promise such a large amount of money to Corp members when the rate at which hunger escalates is beyond our imaginations, coupled with the insecurity that has bedevilled and still bedevils the state. 

We now live in a society with no other level than the grassroots. The government has failed to see or is negligent about people in need; they are the unseen hands in society, yet they are there and deserve to be seen.

I am not against what the governor did, but instead of nurturing a mature tree, it is better to turn a seed into a tree.  The government can create more opportunities for people in need to acquire skills that will make them productive and improve their living standards.

The government can increase facilities in hospitals and even set up business ventures for the indigenous youths who are wallowing in the street and unemployed. One can go on and on; there’s no shortage of what to do, and that is better than giving out cash tokens to youths, for which the federal government has already taken care of their feeding, welfare, and accommodation for this period. 

I rest my opinion on the point that Governor Bago is one of the best-performing governors so far, but I still feel they are not reaching people in need, and there are more ways to use revenue than giving it as a token.

Abdullahi Muhammad Amir wrote this article from Newgate University Minna, Niger State.

By Haroon Aremu 

Upon graduating from university, I eagerly anticipated joining the mandatory one-year national service with the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC). I shared my excitement with friends, but not all were keen to join immediately. One friend said he needed to hustle and build his career first. However, I wanted to finish it quickly and move on to my next life phase. So, I registered and subsequently got mobilised for a three-week-long camping/orientation.

Embarking on the journey to join the NYSC is more than just a transition to adulthood; it is a rollercoaster ride filled with unexpected twists and turns. 

Call up letter came, and it stated that  I was to camp at Niger State, Paikoro local government, Paiko camp, but after that three weeks, I am to complete my service in Abuja. I was happy and prepared to travel, as I had never been to Niger State before. I learned that Niger State is one of the largest states in terms of landmass. I thought about how beneficial it would be for the federal government to collaborate with NYSC and invest in agriculture to empower graduates to develop their futures. This would surely boost the economy at both the federal and state levels.

Before setting off, a friend’s cautionary words lingered in my mind. He chose to prioritise his career over immediate service, urging me to hustle first. However, my eagerness to dive into the experience outweighed any apprehensions. NYSC is a mandatory scheme for all graduates, except those over thirty, who are usually issued an exemption letter.

The night before departure, a subtle warning on the NYSC documentation reminded us not to travel at night—a precaution that resonated deeply. Despite the allure of reaching our destination quickly, we chose safety over haste, breaking our journey when dusk fell. This lesson applies beyond NYSC, reminding us that vigilance is key even in seemingly safe spaces.

As we embarked on our journey, camaraderie filled the air. The sense of unity was palpable while travelling alongside fellow prospective corps members. From shared laughter to prayers for safe travels, each moment cemented the bonds of camaraderie that NYSC fosters. My journey was fascinating, especially with a friend assigned to the same state. “Corpers on board” was boldly written on our vehicle, and the people we passed hailed and prayed for our safe journey. We chatted and played music, making the trip memorable.

Yet, amidst the laughter and anticipation, a stark reality halted us. Amid lush landscapes, armed men appeared—a stark reminder of the world’s unpredictability. It was a wake-up call, underscoring the importance of vigilance even in seemingly serene surroundings. We stopped at a canteen to eat a sumptuous meal, enjoying the privileges of being a corps member. Continuing our journey, we enjoyed the natural beauty of Nigeria’s landscapes.

However, amidst the tension, there were glimmers of hope. Security checkpoints operated by dedicated officers reassured us of their commitment to our safety. Their professionalism and integrity stood as beacons of hope on an otherwise uncertain journey.

The most unexpected twist came when a seemingly menacing encounter turned into a moment of levity. Startled awake by a tap on the shoulder, I found myself face-to-face with an armed security officer, his stern demeanour giving way to a shared joke. In that moment, fear melted into laughter, reminding me that amidst life’s uncertainties, moments of joy abound.

The journey left an indelible mark as we finally arrived at our destination. From cautionary tales to unexpected camaraderie, each moment was a testament to the importance of preparation and vigilance. As I shared my story with my hustling friend, who had chosen a different path, I couldn’t help but wonder what adventures awaited him. For in the journey of NYSC, every twist and turn is a chapter waiting to be written, a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the bonds that unite us all. This is the essence of NYSC, preaching national unity and peace.

Apart from the interesting aspects of NYSC, I believe numerous advantages will convince you to join the program. If you want to know the funny joke the officer cracked with me, I guess you should also prepare to go to your NYSC to experience how interesting and memorable the journey was. As long as we take the necessary security precautions and avoid rough driving, NYSC ensures our safety because we are all dear to the government.

Haroon Aremu Abiodun is a youth Corp Member with PRNigeria centre, Abuja and wrote in via exponentumera@gmail.com.

By Uzair Adam Imam

Niger State Commissioner of Police, Shawulu Ebenezer Danmamman, presented cheques worth N44 million to families of officers who died serving the state.

The funds, distributed under the force’s Group Life Assurance Scheme, aim to support 38 families who lost loved ones in the line of duty between 2022 and 2023.

In addition, the Commissioner commended 17 police personnel who served in the NYSC orientation camp security team.

They received NYSC commendation letters for their dedication, discipline, and ability to manage sensitive challenges during the 2024 Batch A, Stream One orientation exercise. 

By Uzair Adam Imam

A deadly bandit attack occurred in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) and Niger State, leaving four people dead and 39 others kidnapped.

The attack took place in Kuduru, a town in Bwari Area Council of the FCT, as well as Garam and Azu, two communities in neighbouring Niger State.

According to a witnesses, the bandits had on Saturday, December 23, invaded Garam in Niger state, which is a five minute drive from Bwari in FCT, killing a pastor with the Redeemed Christian Church of God RCCG, while kidnapping 13 others.

On Thursday December 28, the bandits struck Kuduru in FCT, which shares a boundary with Garam, and kidnapped 18 persons.

The following day, Friday, December 29, the bandits invaded Azu still in Niger state, killing three people and kidnapping eight others.

A resident of Garam, who identified herself as Mrs. Juliana said, “The bandits entered the wrong house, kidnapped two boys who later led them to the house of their target.

“When they got there, they kidnapped the entire family, but while leaving the house, they shot the man (their target), who is a pastor at the Redeemed Christian Church of God in the presence of his wife and their three children.”

As the bandits prepared to leave with their captives, the wife of the deceased pastor realized that she had left her six-month-old baby behind.

She bravely asked the bandits for permission to retrieve the child, and they agreed. One of the female bandits escorted her back to the house and stood guard while she picked up the baby.

“However, when the female bandit ran out of patience, she left the woman, joined the others and went with the other kidnapped persons who were 13 in number”, an eyewitness said.

Another eyewitness said the bandits made their way to the house of a military personnel, asking for his rifle and uniform from the wife.

“The wife told them that her husband is on duty. They, however, kidnapped two of his children,” she said.

The eyewitness added that 13 people were kidnapped during the attack, and that a five-year-old boy belonging to the murdered pastor was left behind by the bandits at the river because he was unable to cross it.

However, he was rescued by a local vigilance team who tracked the bandits.

This harrowing event has left the community traumatized and afraid for their safety.