The Rivers State Government has established a farmer-herder committee to tackle the recurring conflicts between farmers and herders across the state.
Secretary to the State Government, Ibibia Worika, who chairs the committee, emphasized that agriculture is crucial to Nigeria’s economy, but clashes between farmers and herders have led to loss of lives, displacement, and economic disruption.
The committee’s primary goal is to identify and address early signs of tension, mediate disputes peacefully, and ensure farming and grazing activities adhere to laws and environmental sustainability.
The committee will comprise representatives from traditional institutions, security agencies, farmers’ associations, herders’ representatives, civil society groups, and relevant ministries.
Worika stressed that the committee must act with wisdom, fairness, and diligence to prevent conflicts, build trust, and foster partnerships between communities.
The Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Agriculture will serve as the committee’s secretary.
This initiative reflects the government’s commitment to promoting justice, dialogue, and peaceful coexistence among the state’s inhabitants.
