UK-Funded Initiative Launches Guidelines to Resolve Farmer-Herder Conflicts in Four Nigerian States
A significant step towards peace has been taken with the launch of UK-funded guidelines aimed at preventing and resolving land conflicts between farmers and herders in Kaduna, Katsina, Plateau, and Benue States. The initiative, developed by the Hague Institute for Innovation of Law (HiiL) and funded through the Strengthening Peace and Resilience in Nigeria (SPRING) programme, was officially introduced in Kaduna as part of broader efforts to sustain peace and enhance security across these conflict-prone regions.
Extensive Consultations and Training Efforts
Mariam Abba, the Operations Officer of HiiL and guideline lead, emphasized that the guidelines were crafted through extensive consultations with stakeholders in the affected states. "It is an extensive research work carried out with stakeholders. We conducted key informant interviews and focus group discussions to ensure that all perspectives were captured," she stated. The project has already trained 2,400 individuals across the four states, including 600 in Kaduna, with the goal of reducing the burden of farmer-herder cases in courts by promoting mediation and community-based resolution methods.
Government and Community Support
During the launch event, Dr. Sule Shuaibu (SAN), Kaduna State Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, highlighted the initiative's role in consolidating security gains since Governor Uba Sani took office in 2023. "You cannot talk about peace and progress where there are conflicts," he remarked, noting that insecurity was a primary challenge upon the administration's inception. Shuaibu reported significant improvements in security, with previously unsafe areas now accessible, attributing this success to inclusive approaches and early warning systems. He praised the Kaduna Peace model as so effective that neighboring states are seeking to learn from it, and commended development partners like HiiL for their contributions to peacebuilding.
Institutional Strengthening and Future Outlook
Barau Emmanuel, the State Representative of SPRING, explained that the programme is designed to strengthen institutional capacity and build resilience among communities. "The goal is to ensure that conflicts, especially farmer-herder issues, are resolved through peaceful channels and by strengthening trust in institutions," he said, expressing confidence that the new guidelines will foster peaceful coexistence. Traditional leader Isyaku Garba also commended the efforts, stressing that peace is achievable when people collaborate. This initiative represents a proactive approach to addressing longstanding tensions, leveraging international support and local engagement to create a more stable environment in northern Nigeria.
