The Rivers State Government has established a peace committee to address the rising tensions between farmers and herders in the state.
The purpose of the initiative is to prevent violent clashes, protect lives and livelihoods, and ensure food security through peaceful coexistence and sustainable land use.
The Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Ibibia Worika, announced the committee’s formation during its inauguration in Port Harcourt on Thursday.
He noted that while agriculture remains a significant part of Nigeria’s economy, conflicts within the sector, especially between farmers and herders, have caused serious problems.
Worika, who is also the chairman of the new committee, said, “Though agriculture remained a cornerstone of Nigeria’s economy, conflicts within the sector, especially among farmers and herders, had resulted in loss of lives, displacement, and disruption of economic activities.”
He explained that the move to form the committee is part of efforts by the Rivers State Administrator, Retired Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas, to promote dialogue, ensure justice, and maintain peace between farming and pastoralist communities.
“This farmers and herders committee has therefore been constituted as a proactive measure to among others identify and address early warning signs of tension between farmers and herders across the state, mediate and resolve disputes amicably through community-based, non-violent mechanisms and ensure that grazing and farming activities are conducted within the bounds of law and environmental sustainability,” he stated.
The committee will also advise the state government on sustainable land use, pasture development, and water resource management strategies.
Community sensitisation and advocacy campaigns will be implemented to promote peaceful engagement and mutual understanding among groups.
According to Worika, the committee comprises representatives from traditional institutions, security agencies, farmers’ associations, herders’ representatives, civil society groups, and key ministries, including agriculture, local government, and justice.
The Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Agriculture will serve as committee secretary.
Worika emphasised the importance of fairness and unity in the committee’s work.
“Our task is not only to prevent conflict but to build trust and forge partnerships between the various communities that sustain our economy and our peace,” he added.
The state government hopes the committee’s work will reduce land disputes, improve agricultural productivity, and strengthen rural communities through peaceful, law-abiding farming and grazing practices.
