Stakeholders across Jigawa State have stepped up efforts to restore peace and stability following a surge in violent clashes between farmers and herders that have claimed lives and destroyed farmlands across several communities.
The conflicts have affected local government areas, including Kirikasamma, Maigatari, Taura, Birnin Kudu, Guri and Jahun.
In one of the deadliest incidents, a clash in Yelwan Musari village, Guri Local Government Area, on December 7, 2025, resulted in the deaths of two farmers, while several others, including a police officer, sustained injuries.
In response, the Jigawa State chapter of the All Farmers Association of Nigeria (AFAN) has convened a one-day stakeholders’ engagement seminar to foster dialogue between farmers, herders and other key actors in the agricultural value chain.
Speaking at the seminar held at the Sir Ahmadu Bello Hall in Dutse, the state capital, the Chairman of AFAN, Engr. Auwalu Garba stated that the initiative willaddress the root causes of the long-standing conflict and develop sustainable solutions across the state’s 27 local government areas.
According to him, lasting peace will depend on the collective commitment of farmers, herders, security agencies, traditional rulers and religious leaders.
He added that improved cooperation among stakeholders is essential to protect livelihoods, food production and rural stability.
Presenting a roadmap to address the recurring conflicts, Prof. Ado Jangargari emphasised the need for better awareness of forest reserves, grazing reserves and designated cattle routes.
He called on the government to intensify public enlightenment campaigns, strengthen law enforcement and promote modern livestock management systems.
Jangargari identified key challenges fueling the crisis, including encroachment on grazing reserves, inadequate public sensitisation, weak enforcement of existing regulations and the improper allocation of grazing lands to individuals.
He urged traditional and religious leaders to play a stronger role in peacebuilding at the grassroots level.
Participants at the seminar also stressed the importance of accountability, calling on security agencies to enforce the law and sanction individuals responsible for instigating violence.
Representatives of herders’ and farmers’ associations expressed optimism that the dialogue would mark a turning point.
They reaffirmed their commitment to peaceful coexistence, noting that sustained peace is critical to agricultural productivity, rural livelihoods and food security in Jigawa State.
The meeting brought together leaders of major groups, including Miyetti Allah, Fulbe associations, security agencies and media representatives, underscoring the broad-based approach being taken to address one of the state’s most pressing agricultural challenges.
Source: Punch
