Niger State Governor, Mohammed Umaru Bago, has called on Fulani herdsmen to embrace cattle ranching as a sustainable way of improving livestock production and addressing the recurring farmer-herder conflicts that have fueled insecurity across the state.
The Governor made the appeal when he received representatives of various Fulani groups at the Government House, Minna. The delegation visited under the auspices of the Madako Foundation for Conflict Resolution and Empowerment.
Governor Bago, popularly known as the “Farmer Governor,” described ranching as the most effective and modern approach to livestock management, stressing that it offers better opportunities for value chain production and higher income for herders.
“Fulani people are hardworking, and many of them contribute meaningfully to our state’s development. However, we must discourage those few who indulge in invading farms or engaging in unlawful activities,” he said.
The Governor also urged Fulani parents to prioritize the education of their children. He commended the Chief Executive Officer of the Madako Foundation, Hauwa Ibrahim Madako, for championing initiatives that promote school enrollment for Fulani children. He further called on educated Fulani professionals to return to Niger State and support nomadic education.
Speaking on behalf of the Lamido of Adamawa, Dr. Abubakar Umar Girei praised Governor Bago for his inclusiveness and consistent support for the Fulani community. He assured the Governor of the community’s readiness to cooperate with government in fishing out criminals and promoting peace in Niger and beyond.
“The entire Fulani race is proud to associate with the Farmer Governor. We are committed to keying into his progressive ideas and ensuring peace across our communities,” he said.
Earlier, CEO of Madako Foundation, Hauwa Ibrahim Madako, explained that the foundation was inspired by her personal experience in caring for a child with a neurological disorder. Since its inception, she said, the foundation has supported families with special-needs children, enrolled school dropouts, promoted conflict resolution, and empowered over 2,000 children nationwide.
Also speaking, Taraba State APC Chairman, Ibrahim Tukur El-Sudi, described Governor Bago as a leader who has always shown compassion for the Fulani people, noting that his kindness dates back to his days as a federal legislator.
Director-General of School Reforms, Hajiya Maimuna Mohammed, equally commended the Madako Foundation’s efforts, describing them as complementary to the state government’s plan to construct model schools in Fulani settlements across Niger State.
