Worried by the persistent clashes between farmers and herders in the state, Bauchi State Governor, Bala Mohammed, has inaugurated a Farmer-Herder Conflict Prevention Committee to tackle the persistent crisis.
The inauguration took place at the Ministry for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs in teh state.
Represented by his Principal Private Secretary, Alhaji Hashimu Yakubu, the governor acknowledged the devastating impact of the recurring crises, which have led to loss of lives and destruction of property in Bauchi and across Nigeria.
Governor Mohammed stated that the committee is a strategic move aimed at reducing tensions and fostering peaceful coexistence.
He also mentioned the state’s involvement in the Livestock Productivity and Resilience Support (L-PRES) Project, which focuses on improving livestock productivity through better pasture, supplementary feeding, disease control, and water access for herders.
According to Mohammed, the committee has been tasked with monitoring herders’ movements along designated grazing routes, educating both farmers and herders on peaceful cohabitation.
Others are; facilitating the resolution of disputes, and overseeing compensation for damaged crops or livestock.
The governor urged members to apply their knowledge and dedication to deliver tangible results.
In his remarks, the Acting Permanent Secretary, Ministry for Livestock Development,Dr. Ibrahim Muhammad Bello commended the governor’s initiative and assured the ministry’s full support.
Also speaking, the L-PRES National Project Coordinator, Alhaji Sunusi Abubakar, represented by the Social Safeguard Officer, Nazif Ibrahim Wada, urged the committee to change the negative perception surrounding farmer-herder relations.
