West African Fulanis Converge To Address Herders-Farmers Conflicts

In a significant move toward addressing the ongoing conflicts between Herders and Farmers, The Gan Allah Fulani Development Association of Nigeria, GAFDAN, has organized a one-day conference with the West African region stakeholders in peace building, in Kaduna, Northwest, Nigeria.

The primary goal of the conference, as outlined by Dr. Ibrahim Abdullahi, the National President of the Association, is to facilitate dialogue and bridge the gap between herders and farmers while considering the strained relationships that have surfaced in recent times.

Dr. Abdullahi stressed the importance of initiating conversations not only between herders and farmers but also fostering understanding between nomadic pastoralists and other communities across the nation.

Fulaku Initiative
The conference delved into an examination of various policies and programs implemented by the current administration, including the Fulaku initiative. It sought valuable feedback and insights from the intended beneficiaries of these initiatives.

During the proceedings, participants actively discussed the Fulaku Initiative introduced by the federal government, shedding light on its impact and potential improvements.

In a note worthy display , Pastor Yohanna Buru, a Christian cleric, was among the distinguished guests. Delivering a speech on peace and unity, he underscored the critical role of peace and unity in Africa.

Pastor Buru emphasized the indispensability of peace as a vital component for sustainable growth and development in any nation.

According to him, “As an indivisible entity bound together by a common destiny, Nigeria requires peace to unlock its endowed human and material potentials, propelling the nation to greater heights.”

Pastor Yohanna Buru, who was recognized as the United Nations World International Interfaith Week and Harmony Award winner in 2022, by King Abdullahi of Jordan, highlight pressing need for peace and unity across Africa.

He specifically called on the Economic Community of West African States, ECOWAS, to employ diplomatic means in bringing an end to the current situation.

Notably, the conference attracted various Fulani groups from African countries, including Mali and Niger Republic.

In addition, the National President of the Network of Peace Journalists Comrade ibrahima yakubu, along with other prominent Islamic scholars and traditional titleholders, graced the occasion with their presence, further enhancing the significance of this collaborative effort to address herders-farmers conflicts.

Shakirat Sadiq