By Awwal Umar Kontagora The Niger State Ministry of Nomadic and Pastoral Affairs, in collaboration with the office of Wakilin Waka of Minn...
By Awwal Umar Kontagora
The Niger State Ministry of Nomadic and Pastoral Affairs, in collaboration with the office of Wakilin Waka of Minna Emirate, has initiated a peace-building effort to resolve ongoing conflicts between nomadic pastoralists and their host communities in the Niger East senatorial district (Zone B).
The stakeholder engagement, held at the Minna Emir’s palace under the theme "Join Hands with Our Communities in Reviving Lost Relationships," aimed to foster peaceful coexistence. The initiative, supported by the state ministry, was driven by complaints from the Wakilin Waka’s constituents regarding the strained relationship between Fulani herders and farming communities.
Salihu Mohammed Alfa, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Nomadic and Pastoral Affairs, highlighted the ministry’s role in promoting peace and economic prosperity, a move made possible by Governor Mohammed Umar Bago’s creation of the ministry. He urged both herders and farmers to resolve disputes through traditional leaders rather than resorting to violence or involving the police.
Dr. Diamond P. Nebechukwu, Director of the Abdulsalam Abubakar Institute for Peace and Sustainable Development Studies, emphasized the importance of peace for development and security, urging communities to resolve conflicts amicably and maintain harmony.
Hon. Aminu Yakubu Ladan, Chairman of Chanchaga Local Government Council, called for the restoration of peaceful coexistence, recalling the harmonious relationship that once existed between Fulanis and Gbagyis. He stressed the need to leave routes for cattle to graze without damaging farms.
Representing the Emir of Minna, Salihu Garba, Wakilin Samarin Minna, reiterated the Emir’s message of peaceful coexistence, noting that violence only escalates conflicts. Alhaji Hussaini Yusuf Bosso, Ardon Fulanin Paiko, also voiced his support, stating that Fulanis are committed to peace and will continue educating their people on living harmoniously with their hosts.
Wakilin Waka of Minna Emirate, Abdullahi Salihu Bawa (ASB), the event’s initiator, expressed satisfaction with the discussions, hoping to restore the once-strong bond between herders and farmers.
Community leaders from both sides, including Musa Jibrin Madallah, speaking for the Gbagyis, welcomed the peace initiative and pledged their support for continued dialogue.
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