In a bold move to curb the recurring clashes between farmers and herders in Rivers State, the state government on Thursday inaugurated a multi-stakeholder committee aimed at fostering peaceful coexistence and sustainable land use across the state’s rural communities.
The inauguration ceremony, held in Port Harcourt, was presided over by the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Dr. Tammy Ibibia Worika, who also chairs the newly formed committee.
Dr. Worika emphasized the urgent need to address the growing tensions between agricultural stakeholders, noting that while agriculture remains a backbone of Nigeria’s economy, unresolved disputes—particularly between farmers and nomadic herders—have led to loss of lives, displacement, and widespread disruption of livelihoods.
“The establishment of this committee is a proactive and strategic step by the administration of the Administrator of Rivers State, Retired Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas,” Worika said. “It reflects our collective resolve to foster dialogue, promote justice, and ensure peaceful coexistence between farmers and herders throughout the state.”
The committee, he explained, is tasked with identifying early warning signs of conflict, facilitating community-based mediation, and ensuring that grazing and farming practices align with legal frameworks and environmental best practices.
Key responsibilities of the committee include:
Mediating disputes through non-violent, locally driven conflict resolution mechanisms
Advising the government on sustainable land use, pasture development, and water resource management
Conducting community outreach and advocacy to promote tolerance, collaboration, and environmental stewardship
The committee comprises a diverse and inclusive membership, drawn from the traditional institution, security agencies, civil society organizations, farmer and herder associations, and relevant ministries such as agriculture, justice, and local government.
Worika underscored the importance of the committee’s work, urging members to act with fairness, wisdom, and a deep sense of duty to the state.
“This is more than a conflict prevention mechanism. It’s a bridge-building effort that can strengthen trust and create lasting partnerships among the communities that drive our economy and enrich our cultural fabric,” he said.
The Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Agriculture has been appointed to serve as Secretary of the committee.
The initiative is being hailed as a significant step toward addressing the root causes of farmer-herder tensions, a challenge faced by several states across the country.
