Minister Idi Mukhtar Maiha of the Federal Ministry of Livestock Development has voiced deep concern over the ongoing farmer-herder clashes, stressing the urgent need for effective solutions.
Speaking at his inaugural meeting with ministry stakeholders on Monday in Abuja, Maiha highlighted the severity of these conflicts, noting the tragic loss of lives and property they cause.
“The recurring farmer-herder clashes are a serious concern, leading to significant losses,” Maiha stated.
He attributed the conflict to a “push-and-pull” dynamic, where cattle, in search of grass and water, are often forced to migrate into farmlands. “When basic resources like grass and water are absent, cattle are driven out of their usual environment,” he explained.
In response, the ministry has collected extensive data on livestock infrastructure to improve facilities and reduce the need for constant migration.
“Our approach is to enhance these facilities, making them more appealing to herders and reducing the need for movement,” said Maiha.
The minister emphasized the essential role of support from state governors, local governments, and communities to achieve these goals. “We aim to create a model where grazing reserves are as well-equipped as urban centers,” he added.
This initiative aligns with the Presidential Committee on Livestock Reforms, led by Professor Attahiru Jega, which seeks to foster peaceful coexistence between farmers and herders.
By addressing the underlying causes of the conflict and promoting livestock development, the ministry hopes to ease tensions and improve livelihoods across Nigeria.
Earlier, Dr. Chinyere Akujobi, Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Livestock Development (FMLD), expressed full support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s appointment of Alhaji Idi Mukhtar as the new Minister of Livestock Development.
At the swearing-in ceremony held Monday in Abuja, Dr. Akujobi conveyed her enthusiasm, commending the President’s choice. “We are not only excited but fulfilled,” she remarked, praising Mukhtar’s depth of knowledge and experience in the sector.
She acknowledged the challenges the livestock industry faces and expressed confidence in Mukhtar’s ability to deliver strategic solutions, secure essential funding, and drive focused development. “Our new minister brings extensive experience to address the complexities of this industry,” Dr. Akujobi noted.
Dr. Akujobi affirmed the ministry’s readiness to support Mukhtar’s vision, indicating that his plan aligns with the objectives of the Presidential Reform Committee. “He’s prepared to tackle the issues strategically,” she said, expressing optimism for the future of livestock development in Nigeria.
As Minister Mukhtar begins his new role, he is expected to outline a detailed plan, engage stakeholders, and revitalize efforts in livestock productivity, tackle the herder-farmer conflict, and pursue comprehensive sectoral reform. This milestone marks a significant step toward achieving the ministry’s long-term goals for the industry.
