Niger State Launches Mandatory Registration for Scrap and Waste Dealers to Curb Vandalism and Theft
Story: written by Myra Chinonso September 17,2025
Niger State Governor, Mohammed Umaru Bago, has announced a sweeping directive requiring all scrap and waste dealers across the state’s 25 local government areas to formally register with the government. The initiative, unveiled during a stakeholders’ meeting at the Government House in Minna, aims to sanitise the trade, combat rising vandalism, and protect public and private assets.
The governor emphasized that registration will be carried out through the office of his Scrap Coordinator, Abdusallam Sa’ad, and will serve as a safeguard against criminal activities disguised under the scrap business. Dealers will be required to provide their residential and business addresses, Bank Verification Number (BVN), and National Identity Number (NIN), while biometric devices will be deployed to ensure accurate and transparent documentation.
Bago made it clear that underage individuals, particularly those below 18 years, are prohibited from participating in scrap collection. He further warned that anyone caught with stolen items—whether public or private property—will face strict consequences.
“This process is not designed to stifle business but to protect it,” the governor said. “We will provide licenses for only those who comply with the new framework. Together, we can create a transparent industry that contributes positively to Niger State’s economy.”
The meeting also set the stage for the inauguration of elected chairmen representing scrap and waste dealers in each local government area, scheduled for Thursday under the supervision of the Secretary to the State Government, Alhaji Usman Abubakar. These chairmen will work directly with Sa’ad to strengthen oversight and curb infrastructure vandalism across the state.
During the session, the chairman of the Scrap and Waste Dealers Association, Muhammad Ahmad Ali, outlined new regulations for members. These include mandatory guarantors, visible means of identification, and strict disciplinary action against those engaged in theft or trading in stolen materials.
Sa’ad added that registration forms will be made available through his office, with payments directed into official government accounts to guarantee transparency.
The new policy marks a turning point in Niger State’s fight against vandalism and unregulated waste trading, signaling the government’s determination to reform the sector and safeguard critical infrastructure.
