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Bago’s Agricultural Revolution: Transforming Niger State and Fighting Insecurity with Farming
Bago’s Agricultural Revolution: Transforming Niger State and Fighting Insecurity with Farming
By: Zagazola Makama
In the heart of Northern Nigeria, where insecurity, unemployment, and food scarcity have long cast shadows over communities, a transformative leader is emerging. Governor Mohammed Umar Bago of Niger State has launched an ambitious initiative that intricately weaves together agriculture, economic revitalization, and counter-terrorism, positioning farming as a formidable weapon against the scourge of violence and instability.
Since taking office on May 29, 2023, Governor Bago has envisioned a governance model that transcends traditional approaches. His administration is harnessing the power of large-scale mechanized agriculture to generate employment, enhance food security, and diminish the grip of banditry in rural regions. By converting former insurgency strongholds into productive agricultural lands, Bago has garnered significant acclaim, most notably receiving The Sun Newspaper’s Governor of the Year in Agriculture Award.
This report delves into the transformative impact of Bago’s agricultural initiatives on Niger State’s economy, the empowerment of its youth, and the disruption of long-standing networks of terror that have impeded regional development.
Transforming Banditry Hotspots into Agricultural Hubs
Niger State, the largest state in Nigeria by land area, has been besieged by relentless attacks from bandits and insurgents, leading to widespread displacement, abandoned farmlands, and disrupted economic activities. In response, Governor Bago has embarked on a proactive strategy to reclaim these territories not solely through military means but by employing the plow, the tractor, and advanced irrigation technologies.
A cornerstone of his vision is the ambitious goal of cultivating one million hectares of farmland, with a flagship project featuring a fully irrigated food production hub spanning 50,000 hectares. His administration has invested in over 500 high-capacity tractors, 1,000 pieces of irrigation equipment, and thousands of solar pumps and power tillers to empower smallholder farmers.
These initiatives aim to liberate agriculture in Niger State from the constraints of rain-fed farming, which is often unreliable. By embracing mechanization and irrigation, Bago is ensuring consistent food production throughout the year, creating jobs, and alleviating the economic vulnerabilities that often drive youth toward banditry.
Bago’s vision extends far beyond mere food production; it is fundamentally about enhancing security. He posits that by providing economic opportunities through agriculture, the recruitment pipeline that fuels youths restiveness, unemployment, terrorism and banditry can be effectively severed.
For years, terrorist organizations and bandit groups have preyed upon the poverty and unemployment that plague rural communities, enticing young men into their ranks. However, with Niger State’s renewed emphasis on agriculture, these young individuals are presented with alternatives choices that offer dignity, financial stability, and a future free from violence.
“We are utilizing farming as a strategic tool to combat insecurity,” Bago declared during a recent address. “When people have jobs, they are less inclined to take up arms. We are transforming our forests from hideouts for criminals into productive farmlands that will nourish our nation.”
In regions once dominated by banditry, the government has introduced cooperative farming schemes, providing displaced persons and communities at risk of insurgency with land, seeds, and mechanized tools to cultivate essential food crops. Security forces are deployed to ensure protection, allowing farming activities to proceed without the looming threat of attacks.
A Billion Dollar Investment in Agriculture
Beyond security concerns, Bago’s administration is positioning Niger State as a premier destination for agro-industrial investment. His forward thinking policies have attracted over one billion dollars in agricultural investments, capturing the attention of both local and international investors.
A key driver of this investment surge is the integration of cutting edge technology in farming practices. The state is facilitating access to solar-powered irrigation systems, modern storage facilities, and digital marketplaces that empower farmers to sell their produce directly to consumers. By eliminating intermediaries and expanding market access, the administration is enhancing profitability for local farmers and elevating Niger State’s status as a significant agricultural powerhouse.
These investments are set to create thousands of jobs, particularly for the youth, further consolidating efforts to mitigate the economic factors that contribute to insecurity.
Infrastructure Development: The Backbone of Agricultural Success
Recognizing that agriculture cannot flourish without robust infrastructure, Governor Bago has prioritized strategic road construction and market development. In the past, farmers in rural Niger State faced immense challenges in transporting their produce due to inadequate road networks, resulting in substantial post-harvest losses.
Under Bago’s leadership, major road rehabilitation initiatives have been launched, connecting farmlands to urban markets and processing centers. Additionally, modern agricultural hubs are being established, enabling farmers to process, package, and distribute their produce efficiently.
These infrastructure projects do more than bolster agriculture; they also restore government presence in areas previously dominated by criminal factions. The resurgence of economic activity, facilitated by improved roads and market access, is actively discouraging banditry and fostering stability.
Governor Bago’s audacious approach has not gone unnoticed. Public sentiment, as reflected in social media discussions and media coverage, underscores his proactive leadership in addressing food insecurity and fostering job creation through agriculture.
The Northern Democratic Front recently hailed his vision as an “economic renaissance,” setting a benchmark for other states grappling with similar security and economic challenges. His model is now being scrutinized by policymakers seeking sustainable methods to harmonize counter-terrorism efforts with economic development.
While the full impact of his agricultural strategy is still unfolding, positive changes are already evident. Farmers are returning to their fields, investments are flowing into the state, and previously dangerous zones are evolving into vibrant economic centers.
A Comparative Analysis with Other Northern Governors
While various governors in Northern Nigeria have made noteworthy strides in governance, Bago’s approach stands out for its ambitious scale and the integration of agriculture with security measures.
For instance, Governor Babagana Umara Zulum of Borno State has garnered praise for his resilience in leading a state ravaged by prolonged insurgency, focusing on resettling displaced persons and rebuilding infrastructure. However, his efforts remain largely humanitarian in nature, given the security realities in Borno.
Similarly, Governor Dikko Umar Radda of Katsina State has initiated youth empowerment and agricultural schemes, but their impact has yet to match the extensive mechanization and investment-driven model seen in Niger State. Governor Abdullahi Sule of Nasarawa State has emphasized industrial development, but his policies have not concentrated as heavily on agriculture as a security strategy.
Conclusion: A Transformative Visionary in Northern Nigeria
As of March 17, 2025, Governor Mohammed Umar Bago emerges as one of Northern Nigeria’s most transformative leaders. His administration’s focus on agriculture as a catalyst for economic growth, food security, and counter-terrorism is reshaping the future of Niger State.
By reclaiming farmlands from bandits, investing in mechanized farming, attracting substantial agricultural investments, and developing critical infrastructure, Bago is not only nourishing the nation but also combating insecurity in a sustainable and impactful manner.
While challenges persist, his model offers a compelling blueprint for how Northern Nigeria can harness its agricultural potential to address terrorism and drive economic prosperity. If sustained, Bago’s strategy could serve as a guiding framework for other conflict affected states seeking long term solutions to insecurity.
Zagazola Makama is a Counter Insurgency Expert and Security Analyst in the Lake Chad Region
Bago’s Agricultural Revolution: Transforming Niger State and Fighting Insecurity with Farming
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EXCLUSIVE: expanding JAS/ANSARU–JNIM violence signals growing jihadist threat in Niger–Kwara corridor
EXCLUSIVE: expanding JAS/ANSARU–JNIM violence signals growing jihadist threat in Niger–Kwara corridor
By: Zagazola Makama
Recent attacks by terrorists linked to Jama’atu Ahlis Sunna Lidda’awati wal-Jihad (JAS), Ansaru splinter factions and the Jama’at Nusrat al-Islam wal-Muslimin (JNIM) have brought into sharp focus a troubling expansion of jihadist violence into Nigeria’s North-Central zone, with Borgu Local Government Area of Niger State emerging as a new flashpoint.
On Jan. 9, 2026, terrorists operating along the Borgu axis attacked Damala village, a Kambari farming settlement in Borgu LGA. The assailants killed four residents, looted foodstuffs and livestock, and subsequently withdrew towards the Kainji National Park.
Zagazola Makama report that the attack followed a similar modus operandi to the Jan. 3, 2026 massacre at Kasuwan Daji, where villagers were killed and abducted in a coordinated night raid.
Deep findings indicated that Borgu and neighbouring Agwara LGAs have increasingly become areas of operation for a Saddiku-led Boko Haram Terrorist (BHT) faction working in collaboration with JNIM fighters infiltrating from the Sahel.
The terrorists are believed to be exploiting the Liptako–Gourma tri-border forest corridor, which stretches across parts of Mali, Niger Republic and Burkina Faso, before filtering through Benin Republic into the Kainji National Park ecosystem.
Zagazola noted that the vast forested terrain of the park, combined with weak surveillance, has made it an attractive rear base for terrorist regrouping, logistics and cross-border movement. Borgu has been under sustained pressure, with attacks occurring at regular intervals.
On Nov. 21, 2025, gunmen abducted students of St. Mary Catholic School, Papiri, in Borgu LGA. The students were later released in batches on Dec. 8 and Dec. 22, 2025. It was revealed whether ransom was paid or not. However, Intelligence linked the abduction to JAS handlers operating from Ali Ngulde camp in the North-East.
This was followed by the Jan. 3, 2026 Kasuwan Daji attack and an earlier Jan. 5, 2026 assault on a Mobile Police (MOPOL) checkpoint at New Kali village, also in Borgu LGA. This point to a high probability of continued and potentially more daring attacks within Borgu LGA and adjoining areas over the next two weeks.
There are also growing concerns that the violence could spill into Kwara State, particularly Kaiama and Baruten LGAs, which border Kainji National Park. The terrorist groups have had sufficient time to regroup and reposition following recent security operations in parts of Niger State, increasing the likelihood of an operational surge.
“The pattern suggests deliberate expansion rather than isolated criminality,” a counterterrorism expert said. “This is ideological jihadist violence, fused with banditry and cross-border logistics. The Damala attack has further reinforced assessments that JAS/Ansaru factions and JNIM elements now maintain established bases within the Kainji National Park.
The systematic raiding of livestock and foodstuffs, analysts say, reflects the groups’ dependence on local communities for sustenance and their reliance on the park’s ecosystem for concealment, mobility and survival.
Military strategists describe the park as the terrorists’ operational centre of gravity, and, paradoxically, their main vulnerability.
Zagazola suggested that a sustained , intelligence-driven air campaign targeting known hideouts, logistics routes and assembly areas within the park could significantly degrade their combat power.
Such an approach, would fix terrorist elements in place, disrupt their supply chains and create favourable conditions for coordinated ground operations to restore security and prevent further expansion into Kwara State and deeper into the North-Central zone.
The unfolding situation in Borgu is widely seen as a warning sign of the evolving nature of Nigeria’s security threats, where jihadist groups displaced from the North-East and North-West are probing new theatres with weak state presence.
If left unchecked, the Borgu–Kainji axis could become a permanent jihadist sanctuary, linking Sahel-based terrorist networks directly to Nigeria’s heartland.
EXCLUSIVE: expanding JAS/ANSARU–JNIM violence signals growing jihadist threat in Niger–Kwara corridor
Dignitaries Gather In Borno For APC Deputy National Chairman’s Children’s Wedding
By: Our Reporter
Prominent Nigerians on Saturday converged in Maiduguri, the Borno State capital, to attend the wedding ceremony of three children of the All Progressives Congress (APC) Deputy National Chairman (North), Hon. Dr. Ali Bukar Dalori.
Gatekeepers News reports that there was heavy traffic in parts of Maiduguri as dignitaries from all works of life made frantic effort to access the residence of Dalori and the Al-Ansar Mosque, the two main venues of the wedding ceremony.
Among those in attendance were top government officials, party leaders, traditiona rulers, business moguls, and religious leaders from within and outside Borno State. The ceremony attracted a large crowd, reflecting Dr. Dalori’s political influence and wide network across the country.
Leading the array of dignitaries is the National Chairman of the APC Prof. Nentawe Yilwatda, othe members of National Woking Committee of the APC and large numbers of States Chairmen of the party .
Also in attendance were the Borno State Governor, Prof. Babagana Zulum, his Deputy, Hon Umar Kadafur , three Senators from the state- Senator Mohammed Tahir Monguno, Senator Mohammed Ndume Senator Kaka Shehu Lawan and members of the House of Representatives from Borno State
Others are the Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Sen, Abubakar Kyari, Speaker, Deputy Speaker and members of Borno State House of Assembly , former Nigeria Ambassador to China, Ambassador Baba Ahmed Jidda, Former Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Alh. Ibrahim Bunu, Ibrahim , Former Deputy Governors of Borno State- Ali Jatau and Adamu Dibal .
The Deputy National Chairman of the APC was full of gratitude to his guests who left their various confort zones to attend wedding of his children- Usman, Falmata and Aisha .
” I’m immensely grateful our National Chairman of APC Professor Nentawe, our amiable Governor of Borno State Prof Babagana Zulum, the Deputy Governor Umar Kadafur and the too many important personalities who came from far and near to honour my invitation, may Allah (SAW) bless you all ” Dalori said .
The wedding rites were conducted in accordance with Islamic injunctions, featuring special prayers for the couples, their families,. The atmosphere was marked by joy, unity, and cultural splendour, as guests exchanged pleasantries and goodwill messages with the host and his family
Security operatives were deployed in large numbers around the venues to maintain law and order and ensure the smooth flow of activities. Traffic control officers were also on ground to manage the influx of vehicles and guests, while emergency and protocol teams worked tirelessly to coordinate movements and logistics.
The wedding ceremony came to a successful end with a reception that featured traditional music, refreshments, and continued interactions among guests, bringing together leaders and citizens in a rare atmosphere of celebration and solidarity.
Dignitaries Gather In Borno For APC Deputy National Chairman’s Children’s Wedding
JUST IN: Boko Haram terrorists demand N423m ransom to release Borno ex-LGA vice chairman
By: Our Reporter
A new video has emerged showing two men, allegedly abducted by Boko Haram/ISWAP terrorists in Borno State, pleading for help.
One of the victims, Hon. Hassan Biu Miringa, a former Vice Chairman of Biu Local Government Area, is seen in the video appealing for rescue.
The two men were taken hostage on December 17, 2025, while traveling from Miringa to Maiduguri.
In the video, the abductees said the terrorists are demanding a ransom of $150,000 per person, totaling $300,000, for their release.
‘We were abducted on our way from Miringa to Maiduguri around 2:30. Alhamdulillah, we are alive,’ one of the victims said. ‘We are calling on the government and individuals to come to our rescue.’
The victims specifically appealed to Deputy Governor Umar Usman Kadafur, Hon. Mukhtar Betara Aliyu, Hon. Sule Ali Rimi, Hon. Yakubu Gambo Kimba, and Alhaji Musa Dogo Biu to intervene and help secure their freedom.
‘We are pleading with them to come to our rescue. We are their sons,” the victim said. ‘They said we must provide $150,000 each. For the two of us, it is $300,000. We want to be reunited with our families.’
JUST IN: Boko Haram terrorists demand N423m ransom to release Borno ex-LGA vice chairman
EXCLUSIVE: expanding JAS/ANSARU–JNIM violence signals growing jihadist threat in Niger–Kwara corridor
Dignitaries Gather In Borno For APC Deputy National Chairman’s Children’s Wedding
JUST IN: Boko Haram terrorists demand N423m ransom to release Borno ex-LGA vice chairman
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