President Bola Tinubu has appealed to herders across the country to stop open grazing, surrender illegal weapons, and fully transition to ranching as part of a new national strategy to reduce violent clashes between farmers and herders.
In a statement on Wednesday, the President emphasised that the Federal Government is committed to long-term, sustainable solutions to the recurring conflicts that have destabilised many northern and central states.
His call comes as the nation grapples with a spike in school kidnappings in Niger, Kebbi, and surrounding areas, alongside persistent farmer–herder violence in the North Central region.
Tinubu described ranching as the only viable path forward for modern livestock development and peaceful coexistence. He urged all herder groups to embrace the plan, end open grazing, and hand over any illegal arms in their possession.
He also called on churches and mosques—particularly in high-risk communities—to work closely with security agencies to ensure safety during worship activities.
The President highlighted the newly created Ministry of Livestock as a central pillar of this transition. He encouraged herder associations to partner with the ministry to improve livestock production and reduce land-use conflicts that have historically sparked deadly confrontations, especially in the Middle Belt.
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The Federal Government, in collaboration with state governments, will support the creation of ranches nationwide and strengthen efforts to curb the proliferation of illegal weapons.
Meanwhile, in Edo State, the government has ramped up security following threats from a self-proclaimed bandit in Edo Central. Governor Monday Okpebholo convened a high-level security meeting after a viral video showed the suspect threatening communities around Ekpoma.
A recent operation by the state’s Special Security Squad led to the arrest of two suspected kidnappers—Anthony Fedigha Ebimienwei and Luke Disemoh—after intelligence-driven surveillance in Ovia North-East LGA.
The Edo State Government urged residents to remain calm, report suspicious activity, and avoid spreading unverified information as security agencies work to sustain peace in the state.
