The Livestock Productivity and Resilience Support Project (L-PRES), a World Bank–supported initiative, held a sensitisation programme in Kano State to strengthen conflict prevention and promote peaceful coexistence between livestock herders and farmers.
The programme, which began on Tuesday in Kano, brought together security agencies, traditional leaders, farmers, Fulani associations, butchers, and livestock groups.
It was jointly organised by L-PRES and the Kano State Ministry of Agriculture as part of efforts to foster dialogue and build mutual understanding among stakeholders.
Speaking at the event, the State Project Coordinator of L-PRES, Salisu Muhammad Inuwa—represented by the project’s Animal Husbandry Officer, Abubakar Muhammad Kabiru—said the sensitisation was timely, given the increasing need to reshape the attitudes of farmers and pastoralists toward peaceful coexistence.
He explained that most farmer–herder clashes occur as pastoralists move in search of pasture and water, often resulting in disputes over farmland and grazing routes. According to him, such conflicts have become a national concern, disrupting livelihoods and slowing development in rural communities.
Kabiru added that the engagement provided a platform for stakeholders to discuss strategies for reducing conflicts through improved coordination, awareness, and cooperation.
Another L-PRES official, Ahmad Abubakar, delivered a presentation on conflict mediation, the role of traditional rulers in dispute resolution, and the use of early warning systems to prevent crises. He disclosed that the project plans to establish conflict mediation committees across all 44 local government areas of Kano State to handle complaints and promote peaceful resolutions.
“Prevention is better than cure,” Abubakar said. “We aim to stop conflicts before they erupt, as most are driven by resource scarcity linked to climate change, water shortages, and the encroachment of grazing routes.”
Kamal S. Umar, the Chairman of the Fulani Coalition and Sarkin Fulani of Karaye, commended the organizers for the initiative, describing it as timely and vital.
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He urged Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf to address the issue of cattle routes that have been converted into farmlands, warning that such encroachments could worsen tensions between farmers and herders.
The sensitisation meeting was organised by the Social Safeguard Office of the L-PRES Project in collaboration with the Kano State Ministry of Agriculture.
