The Governor of Niger State, Mohammed Umaru Bago, has called on Fulani cattle breeders to abandon the traditional practice of moving herds across communities and adopt modern ranching as a sustainable method of livestock production.

Speaking in Minna while meeting with representatives of Fulani groups and organisations, organised by the Madako Foundation for Conflict Resolution and Empowerment, the governor said ranching remains the most effective solution to recurring clashes between farmers and herders.

He explained that beyond ending conflicts, ranching would also improve livestock management, strengthen the livestock value chain, and foster rural development, thereby reducing rural-to-urban migration.

Governor Bago acknowledged the resilience of genuine Fulani herders but warned against invading farmlands and activities that could incite fresh crises. 

He also urged the Fulani communities to prioritise education, pledging his administration’s commitment to supporting nomadic education by engaging qualified Fulani teachers.

The governor further commended the Madako Foundation for building bridges across ethnic groups and helping return Fulani children to school. 

He encouraged Fulani leaders to sensitise their kinsmen on the long-term benefits of ranching, which has the potential to boost income and transform the livestock industry.

Dr. Abubakar Umar Girei, who represented the Lamido of Adamawa, praised Governor Bago for consistently supporting Fulani communities through inclusion in state initiatives, particularly in collaboration with the Madako Foundation.

Also speaking, the Foundation’s CEO, Hauwa Ibrahim Madako, shared that her inspiration to establish the organisation came from a personal encounter with a child battling a neurological condition, which drove her passion for education and empowerment within marginalised communities.

Source: Independent News

Image Credit: 21st Century Chronicles