The Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN) and the All Farmers Association of Nigeria (AFAN) in Ilorin held a one-day dialogue and peace-building process on Saturday.

The peace-building dialogue is organised by a Non-Governmental Organisation (NGO), Search for Common Grounds, with the theme: “Dialogue Between Herders and Farming Communities in Kwara”.

The dialogue was organised to build trust, understanding, and cooperation between farmers and herders, ultimately leading to peaceful coexistence and economic development.

The Kwara Commissioner for Livestock, Olohuntoyosi Thomas, noted that dialogue between farmers and herders was crucial for conflict prevention and resolution.

According to her, dialogue is the only option that helps to prevent and resolve conflicts by addressing grievances and finding mutually beneficial solutions.

Ms Thomas, represented by the Director of Livestock Services, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development, Muhammad Umar, called for improved understanding between the two groups.

“Dialogue can lead to economic benefits for both farmers and herders, such as increased access to markets and resources,” she said.

The commissioner revealed that the state government had engaged a consultant to conduct findings on the grazing zones for herders that had been taken over by structural buildings and farms.

According to her, this is expected to provide herders with free movement while exploring the possibility of creating alternative grazing zones for them.

In his address, a representative of the Ministry of Agriculture, Makanjuola Umar, described farmers and herders as economic partners who contribute to the nation’s economy.

“However, there are some differences, which include conflict over grazing rights, inadequate veterinary services, destruction of farmlands, and cattle rustling among others,” Mr Umar said.

The representative of AFAN in Kwara, Saeed Atonto, however, expressed concern that underage herders on grazing expeditions found it difficult to control their cattle, hence straying into farms and destroying farm products.

He appealed to herders and their owners to rescue the poor farmers, saying, “We are brothers and we need to be united.”

On his part, the chairman of MACBAN, Garba Shehu, pointed out that aggrieved farmers imposed outrageous fines on herders when cattle invaded their farms, demanding millions of naira for the destruction of farm products.

He appealed to farmers to be considerate in their demands for compensation, as they are brothers in the agricultural sector.

Earlier, the Kwara Media Coordinator of the NGO, Fatima Mohammed-Lawal, said, “The dialogue also provides a platform for both parties to express their concerns and grievances, helping to identify and address underlying issues.”

(NAN)