Governor Babagana Zulum of Borno State has inaugurated a committee aimed at halting the persistent clashes between farmers and herders, which often lead to loss of lives and food crop shortages in the region.
Addressing the committee’s inauguration at the Government House in Maiduguri, Zulum said the committee’s mandate was to investigate the root causes of conflicts between farmers and herders within the state.
The governor urged the committee to swiftly complete its task within a two-month timeframe and to propose effective measures to prevent future clashes.
Additionally, he tasked the committee with the crucial responsibility of identifying and documenting the grazing reserves and their current conditions in Borno State.
Comprising 21 members, including representatives from security agencies, the Miyetti Allah Association, the Alhaya Development Association, and traditional institutions, the committee is expected to collaborate in finding lasting solutions to the longstanding challenges faced by farmers and herders.
In a similar vein, Governor Zulum also inaugurated the Bama Phase II Reconstruction Committee and the Streetlight Maintenance and Installation Committee as part of the state’s ongoing efforts towards sustainable development and peacebuilding initiatives.
He tasked the committee to identify IDPs willing to return to Bama town, Kumshe, Darajamal, and Tarmuwa town in Bama Local Government area and resettle them accordingly.
“Bama Phase II reconstruction is prompted by the relative peace enjoyed in the state, coupled with our resettlement efforts towards ensuring the voluntary return of internally displaced persons to all safe areas to enable them to regain their sources of livelihood,” Zulum said.
He added that the reconstruction of Local Government Areas along the border, such as Bama, Abadam, and Kukawa, was prioritised to allow the return of Nigerians currently seeking refuge in neighbouring countries.
“The eight-member Bama reconstruction committee is headed by the State Commissioner for Education, Science, Technology, and Innovation, Engr. Lawan Abba Wakilbe.
“The streetlight maintenance and installation committee consist of six members, with the Commissioner of Budget and Planning, Babagana Mallumbe, as Chairman.
“The committee will ensure the maintenance of streetlights, with priorities on Maiduguri Metropolis and Jere Local Government, while also considering other major towns across the three senatorial zones.
“The committee will also oversee the conversion of streetlights, which use diesel-powered generators, to alternative solar-powered ones to reduce the rising cost of maintenance,” said Zulum.
Speaking on behalf of all the committees, Lawan Wakilbe, the State Commissioner for Education, expressed gratitude to the Governor for assigning them the tasks.
He assured the governor of their unwavering commitment to fulfilling their assigned tasks and delivering as scheduled.
NAN
