New Ministry Announced to Tackle Farmers-Herders Crisis
President Bola Tinubu announced the creation of Ministry of Livestock Development on Tuesday. The announcement took place at the State House. It occurred during the inauguration of the Renewed Hope livestock reform implementation committee in Abuja.
Mandate to Resolve Conflict
The newly formed committee will address the longstanding farmers-herders conflict in Nigeria. On September 14, 2023, the National Livestock Reforms Committee recommended creating this ministry. Their goal is to mitigate violent clashes.
Expert Recommendations
Former Kano State Governor Abdullahi Ganduje revealed the committee’s actions. They presented 21 recommendations to President Tinubu as Chairman of the APC. These recommendations aim to enhance the Federal Government’s response to the conflicts. Key suggestions include the establishment of grazing reserves and other land utilisation methods.
Addressing Herders’ Diversity
Ganduje urged the government to address the needs of various herders: settled, nomadic, and from neighbouring countries. He highlighted the herders integrated into local communities as well. Ganduje stressed low livestock productivity increases Nigeria’s dependence on dairy, meat, and other imports.
Impact on Peace and Economy
Ongoing conflicts between herders and farmers in Nigeria have led to significant loss of lives and livelihoods, disrupting peaceful coexistence. These clashes have caused tragic fatalities and economic instability, destroying crops and livestock, and worsening food insecurity and hardship.
Former Kano State Governor Ganduje proposed a Ministry of Livestock Development to resolve these conflicts. This ministry would implement conflict resolution strategies, better resource management, and foster dialogue, boosting livestock sector productivity and reducing dependency on imports.
Call for Institutional Support
The committee emphasised the importance of establishing strong institutions to implement the recommended reforms. They also suggested funding sources, including contributions from international organisations, the private sector, and the government, to support the ministry’s activities.
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