From Abdullahi Idris,Dutse
Jigawa State governor, Umar Namadi has highlighted the state’s proactive and innovative approach to manage cross-border security challenges, particularly the seasonal migration of livestock from Niger Republic.
The governor made this known while receiving a delegation from the Strategic Intelligence Management Institute, SIMI, led by Ambassador M.D Aliyu, during a courtesy visit at the Government House, Dutse.
Speaking to the delegation, Governor Namadi described the influx of cattle and camels from Niger Republic, especially during harsh weather conditions, as a major source of pressure on local resources and a potential trigger for conflicts between farmers and herders.
He, however, disclosed that the state government had adopted a cutting-edge solution to mitigate the challenge by providing water facilities across the border to support pastoralists before they move into Nigerian territory.
“To manage this situation, we introduced a strategy of providing water facilities across the border so that herders can remain there longer until our farmers harvest their crops. This has significantly reduced clashes and improved peaceful coexistence,” the governor explained.
He said this initiative reflects the state’s larger goal of tackling security issues by using proactive, intelligence-based and community-oriented approaches instead of just reacting to problems.
Namadi also stressed that Jigawa’s relative peace, despite its proximity to volatile regions, was the result of deliberate policies, strong collaboration with security agencies and sustained engagement with border communities.
The governor stated that as a frontline state bordering Niger Republic, Jigawa remains strategic in Nigeria’s national security framework, adding that innovative and locally adapted solutions such as the cross-border water intervention are critical in managing transnational challenges.
The governor assured the delegation of the state government’s full cooperation, expressing optimism that their findings would strengthen security strategies not only in Jigawa State, but across the country.
Speaking earlier, Ambassador Aliyu commended the state government for its hospitality and strategic insights, saying Jigawa was carefully selected for the study tour due to its unique border dynamics and effective security management approaches.
He explained that the visit was part of the Strategic Intelligence Management Course II, which is designed to expose senior security and intelligence officers to practical, real-world challenges and solutions in national security.
According to him, the delegation’s engagement with key stakeholders in Jigawa would enhance participants understanding of complex issues, such as illegal migration, smuggling and transnational crimes, while also enabling them to develop informed policy recommendations.
“This engagement will provide participants with a deeper understanding of the challenges and opportunities related to border security, including issues such as illegal migration, smuggling, arms
trafficking, drug trafficking and human trafficking, as well as other transnational organised crime,” he said.
