Nigeria, July 31 -- The Niger State Government has announced that pastoralists entering the state must now obtain an official permit as part of efforts to strengthen security and regulate livestock movement.

The Commissioner for Nomadic and Pastoral Affairs, Umar Rabe, disclosed the policy at the New Niger Quarterly Media Briefing on Government Performance and Citizens Engagement Forum, according to a statement made available to journalists.

He said the measure is intended to identify genuine pastoralists and prevent criminals from operating under the guise of herding activities.

Mr Rabe said the government introduced the policy to monitor pastoralists moving into the state, particularly those entering through border local government a...