Dutse, April 14, 2026
Governor Umar Namadi has unveiled an innovative cross-border water provision strategy aimed at reducing recurring farmer–herder conflicts in Jigawa State, particularly those linked to the seasonal migration of livestock from neighboring Niger Republic.
The governor disclosed this while receiving a delegation from the Strategic Intelligence Management Institute (SIMI), led by M. D. Aliyu, during a courtesy visit at the Government House in Dutse.
Addressing the delegation, Namadi described the influx of cattle and camels from across the border, especially during harsh weather conditions as a significant strain on local resources and a major trigger for clashes between farmers and herders.
He explained that the state government has adopted a proactive and intelligence-driven approach by installing water facilities across the border to support pastoralists, thereby delaying their movement into farming communities within Jigawa.
“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 stated.
Namadi noted that the initiative forms part of a broader strategy focused on preventive security measures, emphasizing intelligence gathering, community engagement, and long-term planning rather than reactive responses.
He attributed the relative peace in Jigawa, despite its proximity to volatile regions, to deliberate policy choices, strong synergy with security agencies, and continuous engagement with border communities.
Highlighting the state’s strategic importance as a frontline border region, the governor stressed that locally tailored solutions such as the cross-border water intervention are essential in addressing transnational security challenges.
He assured the visiting delegation of the state government’s full cooperation and expressed optimism that their findings would further strengthen security frameworks not only in Jigawa but across Nigeria.
Earlier, Ambassador Aliyu commended the state government for its hospitality and forward-thinking security measures, noting that Jigawa was selected for the study tour due to its unique border dynamics and effective management strategies.
He explained that the visit is part of SIMI’s Strategic Intelligence Management Course II, designed to expose senior security and intelligence officers to real-world challenges, including illegal migration, smuggling, arms trafficking, and other forms of transnational organized crime.
Aliyu added that engagements with key stakeholders in the state would deepen participants’ understanding and support the development of practical policy recommendations to enhance national security.
