Cattle grazing: It is deeply concerning to observe the various attempts being made to destroy the North by instigating violence through exploiting cleavages of religious and ethnic nature to cause disharmony and facilitate the breakup of the region. The land north of the Niger River has been home to its inhabitants for centuries, with diverse communities coexisting and sharing its treasures. From the lush highlands of Mambilla to the fertile plains of Kagoro and Kontagora, and the picturesque hills and valleys of Shendam, farmers and herdsmen have lived in harmony, calling every space their home.
By Abdul-Azeez Suleiman
History is a testament to the fact that land disputes have existed among communities, but the resilience of the people of the North in accommodating their differences and resolving agitations speaks volumes about their ability to coexist peacefully. However, there is a growing population in the region, leading to an increased demand for grazing and farming land. The impact of climate change and desertification in the far North has further exacerbated the competition for limited resources as a result of cattle grazing.
The current conflicts and unrest in the region cannot be viewed in isolation. They are part of a grand design to destabilize the North and weaken its people by sowing discord along artificial lines of ethnic and religious differences. It is evident that enemies of the North, both foreign and local, have been working tirelessly to keep the region divided, weak, and backward, facing numerous challenges and problems.
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The manipulation of occasional misunderstandings, which in the past were resolved at the community level, into violent clashes fueled by tribal and religious animosities is a disturbing trend. These conflicts result in the loss of countless lives and valuable resources, perpetuating a cycle of violence and undermining the unity and progress of the region.
The nation must recognize the true motives behind the current wave of violence in the North and address the root causes of these conflicts. The short-sightedness of past leaders, who failed to preserve demarcated and gazetted lands meant to accommodate both herders and farmers, has contributed to the current tensions over land use. Addressing these issues requires a comprehensive approach that considers the needs and aspirations of all communities living in the North.
The issue of cattle grazing and livestock development has become a contentious and pressing issue in Nigeria. The clashes between farmers and herders, often leading to violence and loss of lives, have highlighted the urgent need for a comprehensive and sustainable solution to the challenges faced by pastoral communities across the country. The demands put forth by various stakeholders in the livestock sector reflect the growing urgency to address these issues and ensure the well-being and interests of all citizens involved in livestock rearing.
The proposal to identify suitable lands for grazing reserves and cattle routes across the country, and if necessary, to expropriate such lands through existing provisions of the Land Use Act, is a practical and necessary step towards resolving the longstanding conflicts between farmers and herders. By creating designated grazing areas, the government can help prevent disputes over land use and mitigate the risks of violence and insecurity in rural communities. This approach is in line with global best practices in livestock management and will contribute to the sustainable development of the livestock sector in Nigeria.
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The proclamation of a National Policy on Grazing and Livestock Development (NPGLD) is another crucial measure that can help guide the government’s efforts in addressing the needs of pastoral communities nationwide. By establishing a comprehensive policy framework, the government can ensure that the interests of all stakeholders in the livestock sector are taken into account and that measures are put in place to support the sustainable development of livestock production in the country. This policy should prioritize the welfare of livestock farmers, promote best practices in animal husbandry, and encourage investment in the livestock value chain.
The establishment of a National Pastoralist Commission (NPC) is a further step towards ensuring effective governance and representation for pastoral communities in Nigeria. Just as special initiatives have been created to address the needs of specific communities in other regions of the country, there is no reason why similar structures cannot be put in place to support the pastoralist communities who rely on livestock rearing for their livelihoods. The NPC can serve as a platform for dialogue, coordination, and advocacy on behalf of the interests of pastoral communities, and can help ensure that their voices are heard in policymaking processes.
Finally, the proposal for a Special Intervention Initiative through the Central Bank of Nigeria and other government ministries for supporting livestock development policies and providing financial support to pastoral communities is a welcome and necessary measure. By establishing special funds and programs to support the livestock sector, the government can help improve the productivity, profitability, and sustainability of livestock production in the country. This initiative can help empower pastoral communities, create employment opportunities, and contribute to the overall economic development of rural areas.
The demands outlined above provide a roadmap for addressing the challenges faced by pastoral communities in Nigeria and ensuring the sustainable development of the livestock sector. By taking proactive and targeted measures to support livestock production, the government can help promote peace, stability, and prosperity in rural communities, while safeguarding the livelihoods and interests of all citizens involved in livestock rearing.
As custodians of this rich and diverse land, the people of the North must stand united against forces seeking to divide them. By embracing their shared history, culture, and aspirations for a peaceful and prosperous future, the inhabitants of the North can safeguard their land and build a resilient society that thrives on unity and cooperation. It is only through solidarity and mutual understanding that the North can overcome the challenges posed by external and internal threats and emerge stronger and more united than ever before.
