Tinubu sets up committee to address farmer-herder crisis

President Bola Tinubu has set up a presidential committee to reform the livestock industry and proffer solutions to the recurring clashes between farmers and herders.

Tinubu set up the committee on Thursday in Abuja, after receiving a report from the National Conference on Livestock Reforms and Mitigation of Associated Conflicts in Nigeria.

The committee gave the president 21 recommendations, including creating a ministry of livestock resources.

Tinubu said the committee would work with the federal ministry of agriculture and food security to come up with lasting solutions to the age-long crisis between farmers and herders.

“The federal government is fully prepared to cover the cost of acquiring the land,” Ajuri Ngelale, presidential spokesperson, quoted Tinubu as saying.

“These opportunities will provide gainful employment for our veterinary doctors, while opening doors for the private sector as the provision of new educational opportunities for herders and their children emerge.

“Medical facilities will be established.

“This is a life-changing opportunity that we have. Imagine us producing enough milk for our school children. Imagine us becoming net exporters of cheese and yogurt.

“Imagine us producing the skin massively with a major Nigerian leather industry. Imagine us providing cold storage facilities and employment across the nation. These things are possible in front of us.”

The president said in every tragedy, there is always an opportunity “if you are careful”.