JIGAWA ENDS 47-YEAR BORDER CONFLICT WITH NIGER REPUBLIC

Jigawa State Government has resolved 47 years border conflict which claims over 1,000 lives between Jobi community in Nigeria and Kyalli in Niger Republic.

The dispute, which began in 1979 over ownership of farmland, had repeatedly disrupted farming activities and strained relations between the neighbouring communities.

The resolution was reached during the presentation of alternative farmlands the affected farmers.

Parts of the peace agreement was the allocation of farmland to 74 affected farmers from Jobi and provided additional farmlands for 30 others.

The government also approved the conversion of part of the Dan Maka Forest Reserve into farmland to compensate those affected by the settlements.

Community members Musa Ahmad and Salisu Kabir said they can now return to their farms without fear of violence.

They pledged to live peacefully with their neighbours and support efforts to sustain harmony along the border.

The resolution not only ends one of the longest-running border-related disputes in the region but also highlights the importance of dialogue, community engagement and cooperation in promoting peace, food security and stability along Nigeria’s international borders.

Ealier the Federal Government of Nigeria has commended Jigawa State Governor Umar Namadi for his efforts to promote peaceful coexistence in Jigawa border communities.

The commendation was made by the Director General National Boundary Commission, Surveyor Adamu Adaji, while delivering his speech at the flag off ceremony for the allocation of alternative farmlands to Jobi in Jigawa State.

Represented by  Director, International Boundaries, Hajiya Yahanasu Aliyu said, the allocation of alternative farmland to the Jobi Community is part of the settlement of the longstanding farmland dispute between the Jobi Border Community in Nigeria and the Kyalli Border Community in Niger Republic.