News in Brief:
– In a bid to tackle the persistent herder-farmer conflict in Nigeria, the federal government has launched a pilot cattle ranch scheme in Yobe State.
– This initiative involves collaborating with local communities and herder associations to establish sustainable ranching practices and address land degradation issues.
Nigeria’s Federal Government has launched a pilot cattle ranch scheme in Yobe State as part of efforts to address the longstanding conflict between herders and farmers in the country.
The initiative, led by the National Agency for the Great Green Wall (NAGGW), aims to establish cattle ranches, fodder farms, and orchards.
Speaking at the launch in Nguru Local Government Area (LGA), Safiyanu Yavala, representing the NAGGW Director-General, explained that the project seeks to provide a survival mechanism for communities affected by climate-induced conflicts.
Yavala blamed climate change for inducing conflicts between farmers and herders, which has resulted in deaths, displacements, and property loss.
Meantime, the pilot program, implemented in collaboration with the Wetland Farmers in Nguru Cooperative Society, encourages local communities to participate in tackling land degradation and promoting sustainable agriculture practices.
The launch also included remarks from the Chairman of the Nguru Wetland Farmers’ Cooperative Association, Abba Liman. He highlighted the growing challenges of land scarcity and population increase, urging the government for further support to build a sustainable solution.
Meantime, the three-day training program accompanying the launch will equip participants with practical skills in livestock breeding management, climate-smart agricultural practices, and orchard plantation using innovative techniques.
Ultimately, this pilot scheme represents a significant step towards addressing the complex issue of herder-farmer conflict in Nigeria. The success of this initiative will depend on continued collaboration between stakeholders, effective implementation strategies, and addressing the underlying causes of the conflict.
