By Samuel Luka
The Pastoral Resolve, PARE, Bauchi State Chapter has appealed to the Federal Government to include Bauchi in the first phase of the proposed National Ranching Program, saying it is key to ending persistent farmer-herder clashes in the state and across the region.
The Bauchi State Program Coordinator of PARE, Alh. Shu'aibu Aliyu Kobi, made the appeal in Bauchi on Monday.
He said the request was informed by the state’s vast livestock resources, grazing reserves and large pastoral population.
“All necessary requirements have been met, making Bauchi State ready for a smooth take-off of the ranching initiative,” Alh. Kobi said.
“With our cattle markets, available land and pastoral population, Bauchi is strategically positioned to ensure the success of the program and bring a lasting end to clashes between farmers and herders.” He added.
Kobi said further that, conflicts over land and water have in recent years disrupted farming activities and displaced communities in parts of Bauchi and neighboring states.
According to him, a structured ranching system will address the root causes by providing designated areas for livestock production.
Alh. Kobi added that Bauchi’s inclusion would go beyond security, arguing that it would improve livestock productivity, boost the state economy and create jobs for youths and pastoral communities.
“The initiative will also improve the livelihood of the people as peace and normalcy that were absent in some communities will be revived for all to enjoy,” he said.
PARE said it has been working with communities in Bauchi on education, agriculture, modern processing, nutrition, and skills training for women and youth.
According to him, PARE is now partnering with government to support sustainable livestock development.
The group urged the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security to fast-track Bauchi’s inclusion in the ranching scheme being rolled out in selected states.
The appeal was re-echoed by the Knowledge and Communication Officer of PARE Bauchi State, Mukhtar Garba Kobi.
He said that the Federal Government is currently finalizing the list of states for the National Ranching Program, which is aimed at modernizing livestock production and reducing resource-based conflicts nationwide.
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