Kehinde Fajobi
Nigeria could face a worsening food crisis as armed bandits have reportedly taken over Nagwamase Military Cantonment, a major training camp in Kontagora Local Government Area of Niger State.
This occupation has forced around 23 farming communities to abandon their homes, raising alarm among state lawmakers.
The Niger State House of Assembly discussed the situation during a plenary session on Tuesday, following a motion of urgent public importance introduced by Abdullahi Isah, representing the Kontagora II constituency.
Isah informed the Assembly that heavily armed bandits now control the expansive training site, which spans parts of Kontagora and Mariga Local Government Areas.
“Families in over 23 farming communities within the vicinity have been forced to flee due to frequent and violent attacks,” Isah said, emphasising the impact on local residents who relied on the cantonment’s stability for their safety.
Assembly members highlighted the strategic importance of the Nagwamase cantonment, noting that it serves as a critical training ground for Nigeria’s artillery corps. Lawmakers stressed that the disruption of military activities poses severe risks, not only to military personnel but also to the stability of communities dependent on agriculture.
Further complicating matters, Nigeria’s recent border closure with Niger has led to a sharp rise in food prices, exacerbated by inflation and economic reforms introduced by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
According to UN data, Nigeria exported $193 million in goods to Niger in 2022, making the border shutdown a “double blow” for communities already grappling with soaring costs.
In response, the Assembly called on the Niger State government to urgently collaborate with military authorities to reclaim the camp.
Lawmakers stressed that restoring order at Nagwamase is essential for regional security and the livelihood of displaced communities.