The Emir of Muri, Alhaji Abbas Njidda Tafida, has urged pastoralists to transition to modern livestock practices instead of traditional wandering with cattle in search of pasture, which often leads to conflict with farmers.
Speaking during Sallah homage paid to him by the people of his domain at his palace in Jalingo on Sunday, the Emir stressed that modern livestock production is not only more profitable but also increases animal and milk production while reducing tensions between farmers and herdsmen.
According to the Emir: “It is now a reality that grazing lands are no longer available due to population growth, with development occupying all available lands across the country.
“Most grazing lands have been converted into farms or urban areas, leaving farmers and developers in need of additional land.”
Highlighting ranching as a key component of modern livestock production, Emir Tafida suggested it as a viable solution to mitigate conflicts between farmers and herders while enhancing beef and milk production nationwide.
He called on herders to embrace modern livestock practices, and urged governments at all levels to support the establishment of ranches and settlement schemes for pastoral communities.
“It is imperative that we adopt modern livestock production methods to resolve conflicts between farmers and herders,” the emir asserted.
“The competition for land, now occupied by towns and farms, necessitates a shift from traditional practices to modern approaches,” the Emir asserted.