In a move aimed at addressing the persistent clashes between herders and farmers in Nigeria, President Bola Tinubu has given his approval for the establishment of a dedicated Presidential Committee. The primary objective of this committee is to spearhead reforms in the livestock industry while providing long-term solutions to the conflicts that have plagued the nation.
The announcement came on Thursday in Abuja, following the submission of a report from the National Conference on Livestock Reforms and Conflict Mitigation in Nigeria. While the specific committee members were not disclosed in the State House statement, the committee is expected to work closely with the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security to propose recommendations that will foster peaceful coexistence between herders and farmers, ensuring the security and economic well-being of all Nigerians.
President Tinubu emphasized the Federal Government’s commitment to cover the costs associated with acquiring the necessary land for these reforms. He highlighted the potential benefits, including gainful employment for veterinary doctors, educational opportunities for herders and their children, and the establishment of medical facilities. Furthermore, the President envisioned Nigeria becoming a net exporter of dairy products, leather industry growth, and employment generation through the provision of cold storage facilities.
President Tinubu commended Dr. Umar Abdullahi Ganduje, the former Executive Governor of Kano State and Chairman of the All Progressives’ Congress (APC), for convening the National Conference and assembling experts to tackle the persistent herder-farmer issues. He praised the committee members for their diligent examination of complex issues related to livestock management, land use, and security.
The President also expressed his belief that the committee’s report contains valuable recommendations that could finally offer a solution to the long-standing crisis. He stressed that it’s not the fault of herders and farmers that the conflict has endured but rather a failure of leadership to find immediate solutions.
Dr. Ganduje, reflecting on his tenure as Governor of Kano State, highlighted his efforts to modernize livestock production and resolve conflicts between herders and farmers. He believes that the report submitted by the committee contains the necessary reforms and development options required for the sustainable growth of the livestock sector. These reforms aim to enhance productivity, improve livelihoods, promote environmental conservation, address conflict causes, and reduce the cost of importing animal products like milk and beef.
