Jigawa to register herdsmen in state, says gov

Jigawa State Governor, Umar Namadi, has announced plans by his administration to register herdsmen in the state amid increasing influx of camel herders from Niger Republic into Jigawa.

Governor Namadi expressed concerns over the increasing number of fatalities and injuries caused by camels from Niger Republic crossing highways in the state.

Jigawa, one of the northwestern states bordering Niger Republic—a country known for its camel herding practices—has seen a significant rise in camel-related accidents on its roads.

It was learnt that camels, typically grazed at night, cross the border from Niger into Nigerian territory and roam freely across various parts of Jigawa State.

This often results in accidents, particularly at night when visibility is poor.

During a recent courtesy visit by a delegation from the Camel Rearers Association of West Africa to the Government House in Dutse, Governor Namadi expressed his frustration with the daily occurrence of camels crossing highways, which has led to the loss of both lives and property.

“We cannot continue to lose lives and property due to the reckless behaviour of camel herders,” the governor said. “It is imperative that we take drastic measures to address this issue.”

Namadi emphasised the need for stricter enforcement of the law prohibiting night grazing in the state.

He also reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to protecting the lives and property of Jigawa’s residents.

He voiced disappointment over the illegal activities of herders, especially those from neighbouring countries, stressing, “We will not tolerate any form of lawlessness in our state. We will take all necessary measures to ensure our citizens’ safety and security.”

To bolster monitoring and security, the governor announced plans to register Fulani herders for proper identification and to enforce the ban on night grazing.

“This move will help track the movements of herders and prevent illegal activities,” he explained.