PRESIDENT Bola Tinubu has announced the establishment of the Federal Ministry of Livestock Development in a bid to resolve the ongoing clashes between pastoralists and farmers.
Tinubu gave the approval for the creation of this ministry during the inauguration of the Presidential Committee on Livestock Reforms in Abuja.
This initiative is seen as a breakthrough in addressing the persistent conflicts between farmers and herders in Nigeria.
Tinubu expressed confidence in the potential of this ministry to bring an end to the longstanding issues, emphasizing the wealth of expertise available for the country’s benefit.
He highlighted the importance of efficient livestock farming practices to enhance the quality and safety of agricultural products, minimize food wastage, and ensure a consistent food supply.
The government, under Tinubu’s leadership, is willing to bear the costs of acquiring land to promote peaceful coexistence between farmers and herders.
The committee for livestock reforms, headed by President Tinubu himself with Attahiru Jega as the deputy chairman, aims to propose measures that will promote harmony between herders and farmers while safeguarding the security and economic welfare of Nigerians.
This development follows Tinubu’s previous establishment of the committee in response to the persistent conflicts between herders and farmers and to strengthen the livestock and dairy sectors.
The creation of the Ministry of Livestock Development represents a significant step towards addressing the protracted conflict between herders and farmers in Nigeria, which has been fueled by competition for land, pasture, and water resources.
Efforts by past governments, such as the Rural Grazing Area (RUGA) initiative, have not successfully resolved these conflicts, resulting in loss of lives and damage to communities.
The recent violence in Plateau State underscores the urgency of finding sustainable solutions to this complex issue, which is influenced by a combination of ethno-religious tensions, climate change, and agricultural expansion.