In a very audacious move, President Bola Tinubu on Wednesday called on herders across Nigeria to abandon open grazing, surrender illegal weapons, and transition to ranching as part of a new national strategy to resolve the long‑standing farmer–herder conflict.
In a statement, Tinubu said the Federal Government is prioritizing sustainable solutions to violent confrontations between herders and farming communities, clashes that have fueled instability across northern and central states.
His admonition comes amid a surge in school kidnappings in Niger, Kebbi, and other parts of the country, alongside deadly farmer–herder violence in the North Central region.
“Ranching is now the path forward for sustainable livestock farming and national harmony,” the President declared, urging herder associations to seize the opportunity and cooperate with government reforms.
He emphasized that the newly created Ministry of Livestock will serve as a hub for modernizing livestock production and easing land‑use tensions.
National Security Measures
Tinubu also called on mosques and churches, especially in vulnerable areas, to coordinate with security agencies to ensure protection during prayers and gatherings.
He noted that farmer–herder clashes have consistently fueled insecurity, ranging from land disputes to deadly confrontations, particularly in the Middle Belt.
The new livestock policy, he explained, aims to protect both farmers and herders while curbing illegal arms circulation.
To support the transition, the Federal Government, in partnership with state governments, will provide frameworks for ranch establishment and implement measures to disarm violent groups.
Edo State Tightens Security
Meanwhile, the Edo State Government announced intensified security operations following threats from a self‑proclaimed bandit in the Edo Central Senatorial District.
Governor Monday Okpebholo convened a high‑level security meeting after a viral video showed the alleged bandit threatening communities around Ekpoma and adjoining areas.
In a statement, Chief Press Secretary Fred Itua assured residents of adequate protection.
The Edo State Special Security Squad recently arrested two suspected kidnappers, Anthony Fedigha Ebimienwei and Luke Disemoh, in Egbai Community, Ovia North‑East LGA, after what officials described as “high‑level, intelligence‑driven surveillance.”
The government urged citizens to remain calm, vigilant, and cooperative, warning against spreading misinformation or unverified content.
Governor Okpebholo reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to safeguarding residents, commuters, and investors, stressing that security remains a top priority.
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