Following a passionate discussion, the Nigerian Senate has approved a bill to create the National Animal Husbandry and Ranches Commission. Senator Titus Tartenger Zam, from Benue North West, sponsored the bill to oversee and manage cattle ranching businesses nationwide. Zam elaborated on the bill’s fundamental concepts, emphasising the new commission’s importance in overseeing, controlling, and maintaining ranch lands nationwide. According to him, the suggested National Animal Husbandry and Ranches Commission would oversee the business across the nation, ensuring their management, preservation, and control.
Senator Danjuma Goje from Gombe and Adamu Aliero from Kebbi vehemently opposed the bill, facing strong resistance. Lawmakers and ex-governors emphasised the North’s dominance of cattle rearing and ranching compared to other regions, advocating for Legislation that benefits the nation rather than specific areas. Goje firmly stated that the cattle routes run from the northern region to Lokoja without reaching the southern areas. Senator Hussein Babangida Uba from Jigawa North-West emphasised the need for careful consideration before passing the bill, citing its contentious past.
Resolving the tension requires urgent implementation of the commission.
The additional senators supporting the bill emphasised the urgency of implementing the commission to resolve the persistent tensions between farmers and herders. They believe the commission’s establishment ensures Peace and Security in the affected communities. Senate President Godswill Akpabio facilitated a voice vote, leading to the bill’s successful passage. The Senate Committee on Agriculture, Judiciary, and Legal Matters will now conduct a thorough review of the issue and present their findings and recommendations within four weeks.
In addition, the new National Animal Husbandry and Ranches Commission must implement comprehensive conflict resolution strategies to maintain peace between herders and farmers. Local mediation committees involving community leaders, agricultural experts, and security personnel can help address disputes swiftly and amicably. These committees can serve as the first line of defence, ensuring minor disagreements do not escalate into violent clashes. Community Engagement promotes dialogue, allowing herders and farmers to voice their concerns and collaborate on mutually beneficial solutions.
Access to vet and water services will reduce cattle straying into farmland.
Another critical strategy is the creation of designated grazing zones and migratory routes that do not encroach on farmlands. By clearly demarcating these areas and ensuring they are well-maintained, the commission can minimise the risk of herders inadvertently damaging crops, a primary source of conflict. Providing herders access to veterinary services, water points, and feed within these designated areas can also reduce the need to stray into farming lands, thus preserving the integrity of grazing and farming zones.
To further ensure harmony, the commission can invest in modern ranching techniques and Education for herders. This includes training programs on sustainable grazing practices, Livestock management, and the benefits of ranching over traditional herding. By demonstrating the economic and environmental advantages of settled ranching, herders might be more inclined to adopt these practices, reducing their movement and subsequent conflicts with farmers. Additionally, incentivising the adoption of these techniques through Subsidies or grants can make the transition more appealing and feasible for herders.
Related Article: Nigeria’s Senate decries Plateau killings
Lastly, establishing an early warning system can be crucial in maintaining peace. This system would monitor weather patterns, livestock movements, and crop cycles to anticipate potential conflict triggers. For instance, in periods of drought, the system can alert authorities and communities, allowing them to make preemptive arrangements such as providing supplementary feed for livestock or temporary relocation solutions. This proactive approach can prevent resource-based conflicts and ensure that herders and farmers coexist peacefully, ultimately contributing to the nation’s overall stability and development.