The White Paper Implementation Committee on the recommendations of the Assessment Committee on Grazing Reserves, Forest Reserves, Game Reserves and Cattle Routes in Gombe State has announced its readiness to commence the practical implementation of the government’s directives.
As part of efforts to ensure broad stakeholder engagement and a smooth execution of the reforms, the committee paid advocacy visits to the palaces of the Emir of Nafada, His Royal Highness Muhammad Dadum Hamza and the Emir of Funakaye, His Royal Highness Yakubu Mohammed Kwairanga, to formally brief them on the commencement of the implementation phase.
Speaking during the visits, the Chairman of the Implementation Committee, retired Assistant Inspector-General of Police Babaji Sunday, said the committee was fully committed to implementing both the letter and spirit of the recommendations approved by the Governor of Gombe State, Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya.
He noted that the committee was seeking the active collaboration of traditional institutions to ensure the smooth enforcement of regulations governing gazetted grazing reserves, forest reserves, game reserves and designated cattle routes across the state.
Security/Economic Benefits
According to him, the initiative is expected to deliver significant security and economic benefits to the state, particularly by preventing the recurring farmer–herder conflicts experienced in several parts of the country.
The committee chairman stated that advocacy and sensitisation efforts had already begun ahead of the 2026 farming season to ensure that all stakeholders were adequately informed and necessary measures were taken in good time to avert potential disputes.
Meanwhile, the Emir of Yamaltu, Abubakar Aliyu, who represented the Gombe State Council of Emirs and Chiefs on the Implementation Committee, described the committee’s assignment as critical to preserving the peace and stability currently enjoyed in the state.
He stressed that proper enforcement of designated land-use areas would help prevent tensions and insecurity similar to those that have escalated in other states.
The monarch urged residents to put their farmlands in order and avoid encroaching on gazetted forest reserves, grazing reserves, game reserves and cattle routes, warning that violators risk eviction in accordance with the law.
Full Cooperation
Both emirs pledged their full cooperation with the committee, assuring that traditional institutions would work closely with local government chairmen, ward heads and Ardos to ensure compliance and raise community awareness.
Similarly, the Chairmen of Funakaye and Nafada Local Government Areas pledged their full support for the initiative.
He noted that the long-term benefits of the reforms would outlast the present administration by strengthening security, boosting agricultural productivity and improving the overall economic and social well-being of the people of Gombe State.