Jigawa State and Zinder State in the Republic of Nigeria have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for the monitoring and management of cattle and pastoralists’ movement across their borders.
The MoU was signed by the governors of the two states at the end of a three-day workshop organized for stakeholders involved in the implementation of the MoU, held in Dutse, the capital of Jigawa State.
In his speech, Governor Malam Umar Namadi stated that the process was initiated about four years ago with the aim of finding a lasting solution to the persistent clashes between pastoralists and farmers along the borders of the two countries.
The governor, represented by his deputy, Engr Aminu Usman, emphasized that the MoU would create awareness and engage farmers and pastoralists in the importance of peaceful coexistence, compliance with cross-border movement regulations, and abiding by the rules and regulations.
“Under the MoU, we will collaborate in monitoring pastoralist movements, trade of farm produce, and management to enhance security and prevent illicit trade,” he said. “We will also work towards improving grazing reserves and cattle routes in both states to provide pastoralists with suitable grazing areas and routes for their periodic migrations, without causing intimidation or encroachment on farmland.”
The governor reiterated the commitment of the Jigawa State government to fully implementing the MoU. On the other side, Governor Malam Lawali Amadou of Zinder in the Republic of Niger stated that the MoU would serve as a reference and model for African countries in monitoring and managing pastoralist movements across international borders.
He added that the MoU holds security, social, and economic potential benefits for Nigeria and Niger, and they will strive to ensure its full implementation with the support of affected security agencies, government parastatals, community leaders, civil societies, and the general public.
The agreement was signed with the support of ECOWAS, as well as other international and regional bodies during the ceremony.
