The Kwara State Government has called for greater understanding and peaceful coexistence between herders and farmers in the state, urging both groups to see each other as partners, not enemies.

This appeal was made during a one-day peace dialogue organized by Search for Common Ground Media, held at the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) Press Centre in Ilorin on Friday. The event brought together key stakeholders to discuss lasting solutions to the recurring clashes between herders and farmers.

Speaking at the event, the Director of Livestock Services at the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development, Muhammed Ahmed Umar, revealed that the government is currently working with a consultant to assess former grazing zones that have been overtaken by farms and buildings. According to him, the goal is to either reclaim these zones or create new grazing areas to allow herders move freely and conduct their business without causing conflicts.

Muhammed emphasized that brotherhood and mutual respect between herders and farmers are crucial to ending the decades-long disputes over land and grazing. He added that insecurity from bandit attacks has further worsened the situation, with many farmers abandoning their farmlands out of fear.

Also speaking, Adekitan Adeyemi, the State Coordinator of Search for Common Ground, highlighted that peace is the foundation for any meaningful community development and national progress.

Representing the All Farmers Association of Nigeria (AFAN), Alfa Saeed Atonto pointed out that underage herders often lose control of their cattle, which then stray into farmlands and cause damage. He appealed to herders and cattle owners to take responsibility, stressing that “we are all brothers and must learn to live in peace.”

On the other hand, Chairman of Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN), Alhaji Garba Shehu, expressed concern over the high compensation fees often demanded by farmers after cattle trespass on their land. He urged farmers to show compassion and avoid turning compensation into a weapon.

Hajia Usman Zainab, a community woman leader, lamented the growing animosity between the two groups, saying it is unnecessary and harmful. “Farmers now see herders as their enemies, but we live in the same communities. We should be helping each other, not fighting,” she said.

The peace dialogue ended with a strong message: both herders and farmers must see themselves as allies in the fight for food security, not rivals. The Kwara State Government reaffirmed its commitment to finding fair and lasting solutions to the conflict.