Ibeto Links Insecurity in Niger, Kebbi to Poor Governance, Renews Call for Kainji State

Ambassador Ahmed Ibeto, Chairman of the Steering Committee for the Movement for the Creation of Kainji State, has attributed the rising insecurity in Niger and Kebbi states to their vast landmass and limited government presence in remote areas.

Speaking at the North Central Zonal Public Hearing on the Constitution Review, organised by the Senate, Ibeto said many communities across the two states remain vulnerable to criminal activity due to inadequate access to governance and infrastructure.

He proposed the creation of a new Kainji State—comprising the Kontagora and Borgu emirates in Niger State, and the Zuru Emirate in Kebbi State—as a practical solution to address these challenges.

“Niger State’s size alone makes it extremely difficult to manage security effectively,” Ibeto said. “Large stretches of land are without any government presence, making them safe havens for bandits and criminal networks.”

He cited the journey from Madala in Suleja to Babana, a border town near the Republic of Benin, which can take up to two days due to poor infrastructure and distance. Ibeto noted that Niger State spans approximately 47,395 square kilometres—about 10 percent of Nigeria’s total land area—with a population exceeding 3.4 million, which is more than some existing states.

He also highlighted the historical and cultural ties between communities in the proposed Kainji State region, which he said have been undermined by past administrative realignments.

“The call for Kainji State is not just a political movement. It is rooted in the need to solve real problems. Better administration and infrastructure will lead to improved security and development,” he said.

According to Ibeto, the creation of Kainji State would bring governance closer to the people, improve service delivery, and reduce the vulnerability of remote areas to insecurity and neglect.