The Borgu Emirate in Niger State has officially commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his recent directive to clear the bushes along the Ibbi–New Bussa road and the surrounding Borgu National Park. This strategic security action, aimed at dismantling criminal hideouts, has been described by local leaders as a “life-saving intervention.” The Emirate’s praise follows a surge in kidnappings and banditry that had previously turned the forest fringes into a “no-go area” for commuters and farmers.
Borgu Emirate Hails Tinubu Over Security Action – Clearing the Path for Safety
The directive to clear the thick vegetation along the Ibbi–New Bussa axis is part of a broader federal mandate to reclaim ungoverned spaces. For years, criminal elements exploited the dense cover to launch ambushes on travelers. By ordering the “clearance and habitability” of these areas, President Tinubu is facilitating better visibility for security patrols and making it difficult for bandits to operate undetected.
The Emir of Borgu, HRH Muhammed Sani Haliru Dantoro (Kitoro IV), expressed his gratitude, noting that the move has already begun to restore confidence among his subjects. As the holder of the prestigious traditional title Jagaban of Borgu, the President’s personal connection to the kingdom adds a layer of significance to this intervention. The Emir remarked that the “Jagaban” has not forgotten his roots and is actively working to protect his people.
Establishing Permanent Security Bases
Beyond the clearance of bushes, the President has also approved the establishment of permanent security bases within the Borgu National Park. This facility, which spans over 5,000 square kilometers, has historically been a challenging terrain to police. The new bases will house a joint task force comprising the military, the police, and the National Forest Guard.
Governor Umaru Mohammed Bago of Niger State, facilitated the communication between the Emirate and the Presidency. He highlighted that this project is essential for the safe return of displaced persons. Current estimates suggest that over 500,000 residents of Borgu have been displaced by insecurity over the past decade.
Impact on Agriculture and Local Economy
The Ibbi–New Bussa road is a vital economic artery for Niger State, connecting agrarian communities to major markets. The clearance of the bushes has a direct impact on the local economy by allowing farmers to return to their ancestral lands safely. During the height of the crisis, many large-scale farms in the Borgu Local Government Area were abandoned due to the risk of abduction.
The Chairman of the Borgu Local Government Council, Abdullahi Mohammed Nasir, have hailed the security action. With the road becoming safer, the cost of transporting food items is expected to drop, providing much-needed relief to consumers. This initiative aligns with the “Renewed Hope” agenda’s focus on food security and rural development.
A Backstory of Persistent Advocacy
The Borgu Kingdom has been vocal about its security concerns for several years. In early 2026, the son of the late Emir, Murtala Dantoro, led a high-profile advocacy campaign. He urged the federal government to seal porous borders and deploy a special task force.
The Emirate’s persistence in seeking help reflects the deep-seated trust between the traditional institution and the current administration. By responding with a concrete strategy, President Tinubu has demonstrated a shift toward more proactive security solutions. The 10th-anniversary celebration of Kitoro IV on the throne last year served as a platform to reaffirm this enduring partnership.
Conclusion – Borgu Emirate Hails Tinubu Over Security Action
As the clearing of the Ibbi–New Bussa road continues, the focus is shifting toward long-term sustainability. The Niger State Government has pledged to maintain the cleared areas to prevent the regrowth that criminals once used. Additionally, there are plans to install solar-powered street lighting along critical stretches of the highway to enhance night-time security.
The people of Borgu remain optimistic that these measures will bring a permanent end to the “era of fear.” The synergy between the Emir of Borgu, the state government, and the Presidency serves as a model for community-driven security. For the “Jagaban’s” kingdom, the recent actions represent a significant victory in the ongoing battle for peace and regional stability.
