Nigerian Army Chief Advocates Climate-Responsive Solutions to Herder/Farmer Clash

In a recent interview with Channels TV, the Chief of Defense Staff of the Nigerian Army, General Christopher Musa, addressed the persistent issue of clashes between herders and farmers in the country. General Musa attributed these conflicts to the challenges posed by climate change affecting both groups.

Highlighting the impact of climate challenges on farmers and herders, General Musa acknowledged the need for proactive measures to mitigate conflicts. He stressed the importance of providing alternatives to the current practices that lead to clashes between herders and farmers.

In his remarks, General Musa suggested a practical solution by recommending that herders keep their cattle in one location and ensure they are adequately fed, rather than moving them across the country. He emphasized the business aspect of herding and urged the government to encourage herders by facilitating access to land through legal acquisition.

“The Challenge is that if we don’t provide alternatives. Herders don’t need to be carrying cows across the country; you need to keep them in one place and feed them properly. It’s business. So the government should try and encourage them. If you want to get land, acquire land and pay for it because it’s business that you are doing,” General Musa stated.

The Chief of Defense Staff’s perspective aligns with the notion that addressing the root causes of the herder/farmer clashes requires comprehensive strategies that consider the economic aspects of herding. Encouraging herders to adopt more sustainable and business-oriented practices, such as keeping cattle in a fixed location, could contribute to reducing conflicts and promoting peaceful coexistence between herders and farmers.

As Nigeria grapples with these longstanding challenges, General Musa’s call for climate-responsive alternatives and business-oriented solutions adds a valuable dimension to the ongoing discussions on mitigating herder/farmer clashes. The emphasis on acquiring land legally underscores the importance of creating a conducive environment for sustainable practices that benefit both herders and farmers.

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