The Arewa Economic Forum, AEF, has called for the establishment of safe grazing areas in the north where cattle can be reared under protection as well as farming.
The forum made this call amid the prevalent hardship and hunger in the country, partly attributed to banditry attacks on farmers, cattle rustling and kidnapping, among others.
Chairman of the forum, Ibrahim Dandakata, stated this in Abuja, noting that concerted efforts are necessary to combat food insecurity in the country, given the prevalent hunger among citizens.
According to him, there is an urgent need for a secure environment for cattle rearing to address the issues of banditry and cattle rustling, which contribute to protein shortages.
“Whether we like it or not, the issue of hunger is real, and this is undoubtedly linked to the insecurity in the North, which has resulted in the abandonment of 60% of arable land in the region for more than five years.
“Consequently, the cost of protein has skyrocketed, and cattle rustling, which has escalated to banditry, significantly contributes to the people’s ordeal.
“Moreover, since crop farming and cattle rearing have been devastated by insecurity, it is imperative that all hands are on deck to overcome this situation.
“Although our solutions may not be exhaustive, they will undoubtedly pave the way forward.
“Firstly, we must establish safe enclaves for cattle rearing where you have water, security and all the facilities needed to make such enclaves operational.
“Noting, that the first victims of banditry are the Fulani’s; with bandit-Fulanis victimizing non-bandit Fulanis who are legitimate pastoralists, he said, “Such safe enclaves, in the form of grazing reserves, will provide a haven for Fulani, with the government offering necessary support.
“There will also be collaboration with the private sector and NGOs to ensure adequate security and prevent encroachment by foreigners,” he said.
On food insufficiency, crop production and farming, Dandakata said, there are a lot of hectares lying fallow across northern Nigeria, stressing that the solution is empowering the Bank of Agriculture, BoA, to fulfill its mandate.
Food insecurity: Establish safe grazing sites – Group tasks Nigerian Govt
