The Northern Elders Forum (NEF) has urged the Federal Government to establish a National Pastoralist Commission to safeguard the interests of Nigerian herdsmen.
This call from the NEF came amidst the ongoing debate over the proposed law to phase out open grazing and create ranching agencies, a legislation that has sparked divergent views among stakeholders across the country.
In a statement by its Director of Publicity and Advocacy, Abdul-Azeez Suleiman, the Northern Elders Forum asserted that a special initiative is necessary to address the concerns and challenges faced by herders.
They pointed out that previous governments have set up agencies, ministries, and programs, such as the NDDC and OMPADEC, to address issues affecting specific communities in the South.
The Northern Elders Forum also urged the government to establish special funds and policies aimed at supporting pastoral communities and enhancing their livelihoods.
The statement reads in parts: “The Northern Elders Forum (NEF) recognizes the importance of addressing the challenges posed by open grazing and the need for a more sustainable and modern approach to livestock management. However, the Forum is aware of the concerns raised by some northern senators regarding the potential impact of the proposed law on the livelihoods of pastoralists in the region.
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“NEF believes that it is crucial for all stakeholders to engage in meaningful dialogue and consultation to find a balanced and acceptable solution that takes into account the interests of all parties involved.
The Forum advocates for the development of policies and programs that support the transition from open grazing to ranching in a manner that ensures the well-being of pastoral communities while also addressing the environmental and security issues associated with open grazing.
“In light of the disagreements in the National Assembly on this matter, NEF calls for a collaborative and inclusive approach to decision-making that considers the diverse perspectives and concerns of all stakeholders.
Meanwhile, the Federal and State Governments should promptly identify suitable lands nationwide and establish grazing reserves and cattle routes.
In cases of resistance, the necessary land should be expropriated in accordance with the provisions of the Land Use Act and other relevant laws.
“We propose the proclamation of a National Policy on Grazing and Livestock Development (NPGLD) to cater for the needs of all the pastoral communities everywhere in the country.
“We call for the immediate proclamation of a Special Intervention Initiative through the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), the Ministries of Finance, National Planning, Agriculture and Water Resources, for supporting special livestock development policies and the establishment of special funds to support pastoral communities along the lines of the Anchor Borrowers Programme and other types of Federal Government interventions.
“We call for the immediate setting up of a National Pastoralist Commission (NPC) to act on all matters affecting the wellbeing and interests of all citizens whose livelihoods depend on livestock rearing.
“Successive governments have found it expeditious to establish structures like OMPADEC, NDDC, Ministry of Niger Delta, the Amnesty Programme, etc aimed at resolving a specific set of challenges affecting specific communities in the South. There is therefore no justification whatsoever to resist or even question the creation of special initiatives to address the needs of herdsmen if these will lead to lasting peace and stability.”
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