The Rivers State Government has officially launched a farmer-herder committee aimed at curbing clashes between farmers and herders within the state.
During the inauguration ceremony held on Thursday in Port Harcourt, the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Ibibia Worika, emphasized that while agriculture plays a vital role in Nigeria’s economy, ongoing tensions between farmers and herders have led to fatalities, displacement, and economic setbacks.
Worika, who also chairs the newly formed committee, stated that the Administrator of Rivers State, Retired Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas, is fully committed to preventing such incidents by encouraging dialogue, fairness, and peaceful coexistence.
“This farmers and herders committee has therefore been constituted as a proactive measure to among others identify and address early warning signs of tension between farmers and herders across the state, mediate and resolve disputes amicably through community-based, non-violent mechanisms and ensure that grazing and farming activities are conducted within the bounds of law and environmental sustainability,” he stated.
He further explained that the committee will advise the government on sustainable practices for land usage, pasture development, and water resource management, while also working to enhance understanding and peaceful cooperation through community engagement and advocacy.
Worika added that the committee’s diverse makeup reflects the government’s inclusive and multi-sectoral strategy, including members from traditional institutions, security bodies, farmer groups, herder representatives, civil society organizations, and relevant ministries such as agriculture, local government, and justice.
He urged the committee to carry out their duties with integrity and sound judgment.
“Our task is not only to prevent conflict but to build trust and forge partnerships between the various communities that sustain our economy and our peace,” he added.
The committee’s secretariat will be managed by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Agriculture.
What You Should Know
The Rivers State Government has formed a multi-stakeholder committee to proactively address farmer-herder conflicts through peaceful mediation, legal land use practices, and inclusive dialogue—demonstrating a firm commitment to agricultural stability and community peace.
