The Rivers State Government has inaugurated a Farmers and Herders Committee aimed at addressing the recurring clashes between farmers and herders across the state.This was contained in a press statement sent to newsmen and signed by Juliana Masi, Head of the Press Unit, Government House.
According to a statement released by Juliana Masi, Head of the Press Unit, the inauguration took place on Thursday in Port Harcourt and was presided over by the Secretary to the State Government, Professor Ibibia Lucky Worika, who also serves as the chairman of the committee.
Masi quoted Professor Worika as saying that while agriculture remains a vital pillar of Nigeria’s economy, the sector has been marred by conflict — particularly between farmers and herders — resulting in the loss of lives, displacement of people, and disruption of economic activities.
She noted that the Administrator of Rivers State, Vice Admiral (Rtd) Ibok-Ete Ekwe Ibas, is committed to preventing such incidents by promoting dialogue, justice, and peaceful coexistence among residents.
“This Farmers and Herders Committee,” Worika was quoted as saying, “has therefore been constituted as a proactive measure to identify and address early warning signs of tension, mediate and resolve disputes through non-violent community-based methods, and ensure that both grazing and farming are carried out within the limits of the law and environmental best practices.”
The statement added that the committee is also expected to advise the state government on sustainable land use strategies, pasture development, water resource management, and community engagement for peaceful cohabitation.
Masi further highlighted that the composition of the committee reflects an inclusive and inter-sectoral approach, drawing representatives from traditional institutions, security agencies, farmers’ and herders’ groups, civil society organizations, and key Ministries including Agriculture, Local Government, and Justice.
Professor Worika, as quoted by Masi, urged the committee members to act with “wisdom, fairness, and diligence,” emphasizing that their role goes beyond conflict resolution to building trust and fostering economic and social partnerships.
The statement concluded that the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Agriculture will serve as Secretary of the committee.
