By Awwal Umar Kontagora Minna, Nigeria – The Niger State Government has reaffirmed its commitment to collaborate with tribal and...
By Awwal Umar Kontagora
Minna, Nigeria – The Niger State Government has reaffirmed its commitment to collaborate with tribal and community-based organizations to promote peace and unity across the state.
Deputy Governor Comrade Yakubu Garba gave the assurance on Saturday during the two-year anniversary celebration of Pastoralists Day (Yanlde Fulbe) held at the UK Bello Arts Theatre, Minna. The event was organized by the State Ministry of Nomadic and Pastoral Affairs.
Addressing guests, the Deputy Governor said peaceful coexistence remains a cornerstone for sustainable development, noting that the government is committed to working closely with the Fulani community and other ethnic groups in the state to strengthen unity and social harmony.
“I am impressed by the coming together of the Fulani community. Our strength lies in our unity, and without peace, there can be no development or progress in any aspect of life,” he stated.
Garba commended the Fulani people for selecting August 23 to commemorate the establishment of the Ministry of Nomadic and Pastoral Affairs, saying it was a symbolic and forward-thinking move. He encouraged the community to institutionalize the date for posterity, so future generations can recognize its significance.
Reflecting on past challenges, the Deputy Governor said Fulani communities had previously shown hesitation in embracing government initiatives. However, he acknowledged a recent shift in attitude, with increased participation in programs relating to education, employment, and agricultural development.
“It was once difficult to get Fulanis to sit at the same table with other tribes for peace talks. But the establishment of the ministry has changed that. Today, we are witnessing peaceful engagement and cooperation among diverse groups,” he said.
Garba further noted the Fulani community’s growing involvement in modern farming and animal husbandry practices, which he said have increased productivity in meat and milk supply. He also thanked the community for their support for Governor Umar Bago during the 2023 election, urging them to sustain their loyalty ahead of the 2027 polls.
Also speaking at the event, Commissioner for Nomadic and Pastoral Affairs, Hon. Umar Sanda Rebe, expressed gratitude to the current administration for giving the Fulani community a renewed sense of belonging. He said the Fulani have no reason not to support Governor Bago and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in the next general elections, adding that the administration’s inclusive policies have uplifted pastoralists across the state.
During the celebration, the Fulani political organization, Bago Ruga-Ruga, presented an award to the Executive Director of Niger Foods and Logistics Company, Mr. Ola Olayede, in recognition of his contributions to pastoral development. Represented by Program Coordinator, Engr. Bashiru Tanko, Olayede was praised for championing agricultural initiatives—particularly pepper farming and mechanized crop production—among nomadic communities.
In his remarks, Engr. Tanko reiterated the company’s commitment to empowering pastoralists and supporting the government’s drive to alleviate rural poverty.
Other dignitaries at the event, including Commissioner for Agriculture Hon. Salihu Bawa Bosso, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Nomadic and Pastoral Affairs, and Director General of Nomadic Affairs, Ardo Abdullahi Babayo, all praised the Bago administration’s inclusive approach to governance. They described the governor’s policies as a unifying legacy that reflects a deep recognition of the economic and cultural contributions of nomadic populations in the state.
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