The Ahmadu Bello University (ABU) Zaria community from Niger state on Tuesday, donated relief materials to Niger state government for distribution to the Internally Displaced Persons, IDPs, affected by banditry.
Receiving the items at the Government House Minna, Sani-Bello said insecurity in some parts of the state would have been worst if not for the proactive steps of the government and security agents.
He reiterated the concerns of government about the security challenges in the entire northern region and the country at large despite the huge resources deployed to tackle the menace.
The governor noted that the criminals are taking advantage of the landmass of the state to make the fight against terrorism more difficult.
While appreciating the kind gesture of the ABU community, the governor acknowledged that there were those in dire need of the items, particularly those forcefully made to leave their homes due to continuous criminal attacks.
“We are dealing with criminal elements, and the landmass is making it difficult.
“Let me also mention that we will try as much as possible not to keep IDPs, we want to discourage IDPs because once you accept that, then you are into a different problem,” he explained.
He urged the ABU community to continue to relate with the government and provide meaningful suggestions that would be of great benefit to all in the state.
Speaking to newsmen, the leader of the delegation, former Vice Chancellor IBB University Lapai, Prof Nasir Maiturare explained that the donation was out of concern for the government and people affected by the criminal activities of terrorists.
He prayed for an end to the insecurity and assured of their continued support to the government.
Some of the items donated are 40 bags of 50kg rice, 8 bags of 100kg beans, milk, palm oil and blankets amongst others.
