The Ogun government has reiterated its commitment to strengthening security for farmers, herders and livestock producers as part of efforts to safeguard food production and rural stability.

The assurance was given in Abeokuta on Monday by the commissioner for agriculture and food security, Bolu Owotomo, during a stakeholders’ meeting.

The meeting was convened to address rising concerns over farmer-herder conflicts and cattle rustling across the state.

He described the situation as a growing threat to agricultural productivity, community peace and the livelihoods of thousands of citizens.

Mr Owotomo said the state could no longer afford to ignore these challenges, as crop and livestock farming remained vital contributors to food security, job creation and the state’s industrial growth.

He highlighted the establishment of the farmers–herders conflict resolution committee as one of the government’s major interventions to promote peace between the two groups.

He emphasised that the committee had been instrumental in handling disputes swiftly, verifying losses, sensitising communities, gathering data and rebuilding trust among stakeholders.

“Plans are underway to decentralise the committee’s activities to local governments and communities for greater efficiency.

“The dry season is a period often associated with increased tensions over grazing routes and access to water; the state remains committed to fostering peaceful coexistence and ensuring that neither farmers nor herders suffer insecurity or deprivation,” he said.

The ministry’s director of veterinary services, Taiwo Jolaoso, said the meeting brought together key actors, such as trade unions, professional bodies, security agencies and academia.

“We have come to discuss issues affecting food production and livestock management in order to prevent and resolve conflicts, improve communication and build trust among farmers and herders,” he said.

The chairman of the Farmers-Herders Conflict Resolution Committee, Segun Dasaolu, and the Seriki Fulani of Abeokuta, Mohammed Labar, unanimously agreed on achieving and sustaining the committee’s objectives.

The chairman of the Cassava Growers Association, Ogun Chapter, Oladele Awoleri, also supported the committee’s objectives. 

(NAN)