The Commandant General, Nigeria Security, and Civil Defence Corps, NSCDC, Ahmed Audi on Wednesday pledged to rid Niger State of criminal elements terrorising the state lately.

Audi made this pledge during his working visit to Niger State Governor Umar Bago.

The CG, in a statement signed by the Corps Spokesperson, Babawale Afolabi, on Wednesday, said the Corps will strengthen its working synergy with sister agencies in the state to address the security challenges.

Audi said, “We came around to see for ourselves, a kind of on-the-spot assessment, of the security situation in Niger State and to familiarise ourselves with you.

“We hope to work on our synergy with other security agencies in the state and create a better security atmosphere for the people of Niger State.”

He implored the governor to create more office structures for the NSCDC across all 26 local governments in the State.

In his address, Governor Bago appreciated the timely visit of the NSCDC Boss.

Audi, however, lamented the activities of the bandits, cattle rustlers, and illegal miners among other criminalities in the state adding that the farmers were worst hit as many abandoned their farmlands due to fear of being attacked.

Bago said “Niger State is being referred to as the food basket of the country largely due to our largest land mass in the country which is also suitable for agriculture.

“But the growing security concern means that our people are constantly at the mercy of bandits and other criminal elements.”