President Bola Tinubu has taken a decisive step to resolve the long-standing conflict between farmers and herders in Nigeria by establishing the Ministry of Livestock Development. This initiative was unveiled during the inauguration of the Renewed Hope Livestock Reform Implementation Committee at the State House, Abuja. The newly formed ministry aims to provide sector-specific solutions to the perennial farmers-herders crisis that has troubled the nation for decades.
Genesis of the Ministry
The creation of the Ministry of Livestock Development follows the recommendation of the National Livestock Reforms Committee. On September 14, 2023, this committee suggested the establishment of a “Ministry of Livestock Resources” to mitigate the conflicts between farmers and nomadic cattle herders. This recommendation was part of a comprehensive report submitted to President Tinubu, which included 21 strategic proposals to address the ongoing bloodshed and enhance the federal government’s response to the crisis.
Comprehensive Conflict Resolution
Former Kano State Governor and Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Abdullahi Ganduje, led the committee that drafted these recommendations. The committee’s report emphasized the need for a reform agenda that includes conflict mitigation and resource management. Key proposals included the establishment and revitalization of grazing reserves and the creation of the Ministry of Livestock Resources, modeled after similar institutions in other West African countries. Alternatively, the report suggested expanding the scope of existing Departments of Livestock Production to meet the industry’s broader needs.
Addressing Complex Challenges
Ganduje highlighted the multifaceted nature of the herders’ issue, identifying four types of herders: those who settle locally, nomadic herders moving across the country, herders from neighboring West African countries, and those integrated within specific ethnic communities. He noted that the livestock sector’s low productivity has made Nigeria dependent on imports for dairy, meat, and other products, thereby draining the country’s foreign reserves.
Institutional and Financial Framework
To implement the proposed reforms effectively, the committee recommended the establishment of robust institutions, including the Ministry of Livestock Development and related agencies. They also proposed various funding sources, including contributions from international organizations, the private sector, and government funding. This institutional and financial framework is designed to ensure sustainable development and effective conflict resolution within the livestock sector.
Moving Forward
During the committee’s inauguration, President Tinubu did not announce the minister for the new ministry. The nomination is expected to be forwarded to the Senate for screening and confirmation. Key figures present at the inauguration included Vice President Kashim Shettima, Secretary to the Government of the Federation Senator George Akume, Chief of Staff to the President Femi Gbajabiamila, and other cabinet members.
Conclusion
The establishment of the Ministry of Livestock Development marks a significant effort by President Tinubu’s administration to address the enduring farmers-herders conflicts and improve Nigeria’s livestock industry productivity. With a clear strategy and dedicated institutional support, there is hope for achieving lasting peace and economic growth in the agricultural sector.
