Imrana Sulaiman Maikanti, Gombe
The Commissioner for Agriculture, Animal Husbandry and Cooperative in Gombe State Dr. Barnabas Malle has revealed that the significant reduction in clashes between farmers and herders under Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya’s administration is already yielding positive results, particularly in enhancing peaceful coexistence and agricultural productivity across the state.
Speaking during an exclusive interview in his office, the commissioner commended the governor’s proactive approach to conflict resolution, notably the establishment of a dedicated committee to address long-standing tensions between farming and herding communities.
“Since the formation of the conflict resolution committee by Governor Inuwa Yahaya, the situation has improved remarkably,” he said. “The incidence of violent clashes has dropped significantly, and this peace is creating room for increased agricultural and livestock production.”
According to the commissioner, one of the administration’s key strategies has been the rehabilitation and restoration of traditional cattle routes and grazing reserves, which had previously been encroached upon due to urban expansion and land disputes. These efforts, he explained, are crucial not only for preventing conflict but also for streamlining livestock movement and ensuring access to pastures.
“This is about planning ahead and making sure everyone has space to thrive. By reopening and protecting grazing reserves and cattle routes, we are removing the pressure points that often lead to violence,” he added. “This promotes both food security and economic stability in rural communities.”
Dr. Malle further urged traditional leaders, especially village heads, to actively support these initiatives by safeguarding the designated routes and educating their communities on the importance of respecting boundaries.
“Our community leaders must ensure that cattle routes are not occupied and that herders do not stray into farmlands. Preventive action at the grassroots level is key to sustaining peace,” he said.
The commissioner also appealed to both farmers and herders to prioritise dialogue over conflict. He encouraged them to report any disputes to the appropriate authorities, stressing that the government is committed to responding promptly and fairly to such issues.
“Whenever there’s a misunderstanding, the first step should be dialogue — not retaliation,” he said. “There are proper channels to address grievances, and the government is always ready to intervene and mediate.”
With the decline in farmer-herder clashes, the state is now witnessing improved cooperation between the two groups, which the commissioner believes will translate into greater yields, increased food supply, and economic growth.
“The peace we’re experiencing now is not accidental; it’s the result of deliberate policies and community involvement. Our goal is to build on this momentum and create a model for conflict resolution that other states can emulate.”
Governor Inuwa Yahaya’s administration has positioned agriculture as a cornerstone of its development agenda, and with stability gradually returning to rural areas, stakeholders are opttttimistic abo a brighter, more prosprous future for Gombe State.