Governor Hyacinth Iormem Alia has stated that ongoing peacebuilding efforts in Benue State are yielding positive results, particularly in addressing farmer-herder conflicts.
The Governor made the remarks on Monday at the Government House in Makurdi while receiving a delegation from the German government. Represented by his deputy, Barr. Dr. Sam Ode, the Governor reaffirmed the administration’s commitment to protecting lives and property, maintaining neutrality, and strengthening peacebuilding initiatives.
He noted that seasonal migration of pastoralists across West Africa has, in recent decades, intensified clashes with farmers due to increasing pressure on land and grazing areas, adding that in Benue, where over 95 percent of the rural population depends on agriculture, the situation has led to violent conflicts and loss of lives. He also emphasised that the state enacted the Open Grazing Prohibition and Ranches Establishment Law in 2017 to regulate livestock farming.
Earlier, the leader of the German delegation, Thomas Rachel, a member of the German Parliament and Commissioner for Freedom of Religion and Belief, said the German government is ready to support reconciliation efforts between farmers and herders in Benue State. Rachel highlighted the strong bilateral relations between Nigeria and Germany based on shared democratic values and cooperation in peacebuilding and development.
He described Benue as Nigeria’s “Food Basket” and acknowledged challenges facing the state, including farmer-herder conflicts, religious tensions, and illegal mining. He disclosed that Germany is already supporting peacebuilding efforts in the state through funding provided to the Centre for Humanitarian Dialogue, stating, “Our role is to support the Benue State government with funding through the Centre for Humanitarian Dialogue.
This is an important measure to support peace. While local leaders have the responsibility to find solutions, we are committed to supporting initiatives that improve the humanitarian situation and promote peace.”
