NGO Wades Into Farmers/Herders’ Clashes

A non-governmental organisation (NGO), Trios Foundation Institute has proffered solutions to the continued farmers/herders’ clashes being witnessed in the country.

In a statement issued after a virtual training of some youths across the 774 local government areas, the Institute said government at all levels must work towards repositioning the cattle production architecture by training youths in every local government area and empowering with calves to engage in small-scale ranching.

The statement signed by Pastor Ade Bodunde, executive director, Trios Foundation Institute explained that despite efforts of the government to modernize the sector and bring a shift from nomadic herding, traditional cattle herders have resisted the change.

“Community peace practitioners group in Trios Foundation Institute at its first capacity building for community and emerging leaders who have to relate with people of diverse background and cultures as inevitable outcome of migration and economic growth recommended that the main solution to farmers and herders continuous conflict is to reposition the cattle production architecture by training youths in every local government area and empowering with calves to engage in small scale ranching.

“The demand for beef and its other products runs into billions of naira yearly even in small states where about 300 cows are killed daily.

“The cattle production and distribution sector are undoubtedly one of the biggest economic sectors in most states in Nigeria.

“Despite efforts of the government to modernize the sector and bring a shift from nomadic herding, traditional cattle herders have resisted change,” he said.