Umar Ibrahim Mohammed, the Director General of the Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency (NIHSA), represented the Honorable Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, Engr. Professor Joseph Terlumun Utsev, at a high-profile program addressing the impact of climate change on farmer-herder clashes in Nigeria. The event, facilitated by Hon. Terseer Ugbor, Deputy Chairman of the House Committee on Environment, was held at the National Assembly in Abuja.
In his keynote speech, Umar Ibrahim Mohammed underscored the urgency of tackling the escalating farmer-herder conflicts exacerbated by climate change. He highlighted that the changing climate patterns are directly affecting agricultural productivity and pastoral activities, thereby intensifying disputes over resources. For instance, unpredictable rainfall and prolonged droughts are reducing the availability of water and grazing land, leading to clashes between farmers and herders over the increasingly scarce resources.
Mohammed stressed the importance of sustainable solutions that consider these evolving environmental challenges. Abuja Network News examine successful examples from other countries as models for Nigeria. In Kenya, the government has implemented a combination of community-based resource management and climate adaptation strategies. Initiatives include the establishment of water-sharing agreements and the promotion of sustainable grazing practices through the Kenya Livestock Insurance Programme, which helps pastoralists manage risks associated with climate variability.
Similarly, Ethiopia has adopted integrated land management approaches, such as the Sustainable Land Management Program, which involves reforestation, construction of water reservoirs, and promotion of alternative livelihoods for pastoral communities, similar to suggestions made by NIHSA during it's two days retreat in Abuja. These measures have significantly reduced conflicts and improved land productivity. The Great Green Wall initiative in the Sahel region, including Senegal and Niger, focuses on restoring degraded lands and providing sustainable livelihoods to prevent conflicts between agricultural and pastoral communities.
In Australia, innovative approaches to managing rangelands have been employed. The country's Landcare program emphasizes community-driven land management and restoration, leading to improved land health and reduced conflict over resources. This program encourages collaboration between landowners, scientists, and policymakers to develop and implement sustainable land use practices.
In India, the implementation of the Integrated Watershed Management Program has helped mitigate conflicts between farmers and herders by improving water conservation and management practices. This program has promoted community participation in watershed management, resulting in enhanced water availability and reduced resource-based conflicts.
He called for enhanced collaboration between government agencies, stakeholders, and local communities to develop and implement effective strategies to address these conflicts. He commended Hon. Terseer Ugbor and his team for their proactive efforts in organizing the program, which he described as a vital platform for dialogue and action. He urged participants to work collectively towards achieving sustainable solutions that would not only resolve conflicts but also promote harmony and resilience among the affected communities.
Reiterating the Ministry of Water Resources and Sanitation's commitment to addressing the impacts of climate change on farmer-herder clashes, Mohammed called for continued cooperation and joint efforts to build climate resilience across Nigeria.
Prof. Babatunde Bolaji, representing the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, delivered a compelling address on Nigeria's vulnerability to climate change. He noted that rising temperatures, erratic rainfall patterns, and extreme weather events such as floods and droughts are already posing severe threats to agriculture, water resources, and public health. Prof. Bolaji emphasized the need for urgent action to mitigate these impacts through increased investment in renewable energy, sustainable agricultural practices, and climate-resilient infrastructure.
He also called for global cooperation, urging the international community to unite in addressing the shared challenges posed by climate change. He affirmed Nigeria's commitment to contributing to global efforts to combat this critical issue.
The program also featured the premiere of a documentary titled "Behind the Valley," which explores the nexus between climate change and farmer-herder conflicts in Benue State, Nigeria. The documentary sheds light on the lived experiences of those affected and the urgent need for comprehensive climate action.
In a significant development, Hon. Terseer Ugbor announced that he will present on this subject at the 79th United Nations General Assembly in the United States in September 2024, highlighting Nigeria's ongoing efforts and the need for international support.
Overall, the event successfully brought attention to the pressing issue of climate change and its impact on farmer-herder conflicts, fostering meaningful dialogue and collaboration among key stakeholders committed to finding sustainable solutions.
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