President Bola Tinubu has approved the establishment of a Presidential Committee on Farmers and herdsmen.
The President announced the establishment of the Committee on Thursday, 14th September 2023, in Abuja, following the submission of a report from the National Conference on Livestock Reforms and Mitigation of Associated Conflicts in Nigeria.
The Conference was convened by the former Governor of Kano State and National Chairman of the APC, Dr. Umar Abdullahi Ganduje.
The President charged the Committee to collaborate with the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security to come up with recommendations aimed at fostering a peaceful co-existence between herders and farmers.
“The Federal Government is fully prepared to cover the cost of acquiring the land. These opportunities will provide gainful employment for our veterinary doctors, while opening doors for the private sector as the provision of new educational opportunities for herders’ and their children emerge. Medical facilities will be established. This is a life-changing opportunity that we have.
President Tinubu
Imagine us producing enough milk for our school children. Imagine us becoming net exporters of cheese and yoghurt. Imagine us producing the skin massively with a major Nigerian leather industry. Imagine us providing cold storage facilities and employment across the nation. These things are possible in front of us.”
President Tinubu
The President, commended Ganduje for engaging the best minds and experts in finding solution to the perennial issues between pastoralists and farmers.
He also commended the committee members for their diligent work in examining the complex issues relating to livestock management, land use, and security.
Dr. Ganduje recounted his experiences during his tenure as the Governor of Kano State. He cited hosting the National Conference as part of a deliberate efforts to promote the modernisation of livestock production.
The APC Chairman and former Governor of Kano assured the President that implementing the recommendations of the report would yield positive outcome.
Story: Hauwa Mohammed