The federal government has been urged to promote global best practices of ranching so that pastoralists can rely on farmers for the supply of fodder to augment their animal feeds.
This was contained in a communiqué issued at the end of the Benue State Peace Seminar, held at the New Banquet Hall, Government House, Makurdi.
The seminar, was jointly organised by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), United Nations Refugee Agency (UNHCR), and Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) with funding from the United Nations Trust Fund for Human Security (UNTFHS).
The communiqué also urged the federal government to take into cognisance the issue of National Identity Cards for all citizens of Nigeria to easily identify foreigners coming into the country to cause problems.
“The nature of the conflict is predictable therefore proactive measures involving all principal actors should be adopted.”
They also advocated for continuous dialogue between the conflicting parties to encouraged and build trust in each other as well as other external mediation and reconciliation efforts.
“All UN intervention efforts must be efficiently executed to give a new lease of life to affected communities in Benue and Nasarawa States.”
According to the communiqué, all principal actors in the crises must be engaged to drive the process.
“The great green wall should be strengthened for the reclamation of the semi-arid region of northern Nigeria into green areas for pastoralists to prevent downward movement of livestock and the consequent conflicts.”
It was gathered that participants were drawn from the Benue State Executive Council, Benue State House of Assembly, Traditional Leaders, Religious Leaders, Socio Cultural Associations, Political Parties, Academia, Market Women Association, Local Government Council. Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association, Nigeria Farmers Association, non govemmental organisations, and all security outfits.
It was also gathered that the meeting sought to commenced a new project on “Transitioning from Humanitarian Relief to Long-Term Development: Addressing Conflict in Nigeria”, and to advocate for Peace in Benue State between the farming and herding communities.
