Mohamed Garba
In a bid to address the recurring problem of farmer-herder conflicts and boost the state’s economy, the Borno State Government, in collaboration with the Federal Government, has launched the Ngarannam Livestock Improvement and Range Settlement community, also known as the Rural Grazing Area (RUGA).
Speaking at the commissioning ceremony, Professor Attahiru Jega, Co-Chair of the Presidential Livestock Reforms Committee, praised Governor Babagana Zulum for establishing a pioneering cattle ranch in Nigeria. Jega described the project as a “vision of a leader” and commended the governor’s passion and commitment to resolving the farmer-herder crisis.
I must say that I witnessed something I had never seen in our country today. We have seen today the vision of a leader, the passion, and the commitment to what clearly will help drive economic growth, uplift the lives and livelihoods of people, and provide employment to our citizens,” Prof. Jega said.
The co-chairman added, “It is highly commendable and encouraging that Borno State has shown leadership and commitment to livestock development based on what we have seen at today’s event.
It is gratifying that the state is ahead with the launching of the Annual Animal Vaccination Scheme and the distribution of livestock for livelihood restoration and economic empowerment of the citizens. It is commendable that the state has both the Ministry of Livestock and Fisheries Development and the Borno State Livestock Management Agency (BOLMA),” he said.
The RUGA settlement aims to provide a permanent solution to the conflicts between farmers and herders by settling migrant pastoral families in organized rural areas with basic amenities such as schools, hospitals, and markets. This initiative is expected to reduce clashes, improve livestock production, and increase food security in the region.
The launch of the RUGA settlement in Borno State marks a significant step towards addressing the long-standing farmer-herder conflicts in Nigeria. With the support of the Federal Government, this initiative is poised to promote peaceful coexistence between farmers and herders while also boosting the local economy.
