Tinubu Highlights Efforts to Resolve Farmers-Herders Clashes

President Tinubu outlines strategies to address ongoing clashes between farmers and herders, focusing on sustainable solutions for peace and development.

President Bola Tinubu has reaffirmed his administration’s dedication to resolving the ongoing conflicts between farmers and herders, which have resulted in numerous casualties.

Clashes between farmers and herders over access to water and land in various Nigerian states have jeopardized food production.

According to an Amnesty International report, the conflict—an extension of a decade-long insurgency by Islamist extremists responsible for tens of thousands of deaths in northeast Nigeria—resulted in 3,641 fatalities between 2016 and 2018. This figure is one of the most official estimates available regarding casualties.

Tinubu stated that his revitalized efforts to attract both international and local investments into the livestock sector of agriculture will resolve farmer-herder conflicts, eliminate hunger and poverty in Nigeria, and foster economic prosperity.

In Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, President Tinubu announced the signing of a Letter of Intent between the Nigerian Government and JBS S.A., one of the world’s three largest meat processing companies.

According to a statement released on Friday by presidential spokesman Bayo Onanuga, Tinubu said they are currently addressing an issue that has troubled communities in regions of Africa: the conflicts between farmers and migrating cattle. These disputes have resulted in loss of life and bloodshed, even though there is a modern and civilized approach available to resolve them while also potentially establishing a successful economy.

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“We are working to transform a tragic and hopeless situation into an economic opportunity, recognizing the challenges while identifying the potential within them.”

Tinubu encouraged the company to recognize the significant potential of Nigeria’s $2.5 billion livestock investment opportunities, particularly considering its large population. He suggested that JBS S.A., with its internationally renowned expertise in ensuring food security, should take advantage of this opportunity.

We’ve heard a great deal about your reputation, and we have strong confidence in the partnership we’re establishing today.

“Food security is crucial. Even as we speak, people are experiencing hunger. Yet, there exists tremendous hope—hope that includes you,” he added.

President Tinubu assured the top executives at JBS that Nigeria is prepared to engage in business with them, promising a favorable return on their investment.

Before his trip to Brazil, the President assembled a group of Nigerian officials and private sector representatives to leverage the G20 Leaders’ Summit in Rio by conducting a study tour of Sao Paulo. They aimed to explore opportunities related to livestock development, meat processing, and seed development and multiplication for essential grains.