Germany backs peace moves between farmers, herders in Benue

The German government has reaffirmed its support for reconciliation initiatives aimed at resolving conflicts between farmers and herders in Benue State and fostering sustainable peace.

This assurance was given by Thomas Rachel during a visit to Governor Hyacinth Alia in Makurdi on Monday.

Rachel stated that Germany is willing to support credible efforts that encourage peaceful coexistence, stressing the importance of collaboration and dialogue among stakeholders.

He also pointed to the strong diplomatic ties between Germany and Nigeria, anchored on shared democratic principles and joint efforts toward peace and development.

Describing Benue as Nigeria’s “food basket,” he acknowledged the persistent challenges confronting the state, including clashes between farmers and herders, religious tensions, and illegal mining activities.

According to him, Germany seeks to better understand these issues and contribute to practical, dialogue-driven solutions.

He noted that Germany is already supporting peacebuilding programmes in the state through the Centre for Humanitarian Dialogue.

“Our role is to support the Benue State government with funding from the German government through the Centre for Humanitarian Dialogue.

“This is an important measure to support peace. It is the responsibility of local leaders to find solutions, but we are committed to supporting initiatives that improve the humanitarian situation and promote peace,” he said.

In response, Governor Alia, represented by his deputy Sam Ode, expressed confidence that ongoing peace efforts are beginning to produce results, particularly in reducing farmer-herder clashes.

He reiterated Nigeria’s status as a secular state, citing constitutional provisions that guarantee freedom of religion and government neutrality.

The governor explained that the seasonal movement of pastoralists across West Africa has increasingly triggered disputes over land use in recent decades, especially as population pressure grows. In Benue, where most rural residents rely on farming, this has led to recurring violence and loss of lives.

While noting that pastoralism is an age-old practice, he said the situation has deteriorated due to the infiltration of criminal elements.

“In the dry season, pastoralists move across the West African sub-region into the southern parts of Nigeria. This transhumance has existed for centuries, but in recent decades, pressure on land has forced herders into farmlands, leading to conflicts and the tragic loss of lives.

“In Benue, over 95 per cent of the rural population depends on agriculture. The government has made sustained efforts to de-escalate these conflicts, and we remain committed to that goal.

“We are not supporting any group; we have a duty to protect our citizens.

Unfortunately, genuine pastoralists have been infiltrated by bandits, leading to senseless killings. As a government, we are committed to deepening the peacebuilding process,” he said.

Governor Alia further highlighted that the state had enacted the Open Grazing Prohibition and Ranches Establishment Law in 2017 to regulate livestock activities and curb conflicts.

(NAN)