Farmers-herders clashes -Military seeks dialogue, forgiveness in Kaduna
By Golok Nanmwa
JOS – The Nigerian military has called for sustained dialogue, forgiveness and cooperation among farmers, herders and youths to address recurring conflicts and strengthen peaceful coexistence in Sanga Local Government Area of Kaduna State.
The call was made on Saturday at the fourth edition of a stakeholders’ security seminar organised by the Joint Task Force, Operation Enduring Peace in the community.
The seminar, themed “Bridging the Divide Uniting Farmers, Herders and Youth for a Prosperous Community,” brought together traditional and religious leaders, community representatives, women, youths and security agencies to discuss practical measures to address conflicts affecting livelihoods and community relations.
Speaking at the event, the General Officer Commanding, GOC, 3 Division, Nigerian Army, and Commander, Operation Enduring Peace, Major General Maxwell Dangana, said the underlying causes of conflict must be addressed through dialogue, forgiveness and collective responsibility.
Dangana said, “Farmers, herders and other members of the community must be able to pursue their legitimate economic activities without fear, intimidation or violence, particularly during the farming season.”
“This seminar provides an opportunity for stakeholders to identify the root causes of conflict, exchange ideas and develop practical strategies to tackle criminality and promote mutual understanding.”
“Previous editions of this initiative have contributed to reducing clashes and destruction of farmlands by approximately 70 per cent, based on available statistics.”
” Sustaining the gains would require continuous engagement and stronger cooperation among community leaders, security agencies and residents.”
According to him, “Compassion, apologies, forgiveness and the willingness of offenders to acknowledge wrongdoing are important steps towards rebuilding trust and restoring damaged relationships.”
“I urge traditional, religious and community leaders to organise regular meetings and encourage residents, particularly young people, to embrace tolerance and peaceful coexistence.”
“Security remains essential for agricultural productivity, economic growth and sustainable development.”
Dangana also commissioned some operational vehicles and motorcycles at Sub-Sector 71, Sanga, to improve the mobility and operational capacity of troops within the joint operations area.
He also presented motorcycles to some leaders of the community to strengthen cooperation between residents and security personnel, particularly in information sharing and intelligence gathering.
Dangana said, “This initiative is part of Operation Enduring Peace’s non-kinetic approach, which complements military operations with dialogue, community engagement and other peacebuilding measures.
Also speaking at the occasion, the member representing Jema’a/Sanga Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, Hon. Daniel Amos, described the military’s peacebuilding initiative as a collaborative effort that was producing positive results in the area.
Amos said, “The longstanding tensions between farmers and herders require sustained intervention. The journey towards lasting peace will take time because of the history of conflicts in the region.”
“We are encouraged by the progress recorded in Sanga, but more work is still required to achieve lasting stability.”
“I urge traditional rulers to intensify engagement with their communities and promote peaceful coexistence. These conflicts must not be allowed to undermine relationships among residents of different backgrounds.”
“There is also a need for stronger collaboration between the military, government officials, community leaders and other stakeholders to consolidate the existing peace efforts.”
Similarly, the Chairman of Sanga Local Government Area, Hon. Yakubu Usman Anto, stressed the need to address youth restiveness through sustained engagement and employment opportunities.
Anto said, “Community leaders must maintain communication with young people, while government should intensify efforts to create jobs and address factors that could contribute to insecurity.”
Resource persons at the seminar, Dr Daniel Amba and the Chief Imam of Kafanchan Central Mosque, Sheikh Mohammed Kabir Kasim, highlighted issues contributing to conflicts and called for stronger community cohesion.
They said, “There is a need for practical measures to bridge divisions among farmers, herders and youths while strengthening mutual understanding and peaceful relations.”
The Commander, Sub-Sector 71, Sanga, Lieutenant Colonel M. Galadima, said recurring farmers-herders clashes remained a major concern requiring consistent dialogue, public sensitisation and efforts to change attitudes among affected groups.
Galadima said, “Insecurity can undermine agricultural productivity and broader economic development, particularly when farmers and herders are unable to carry out their activities peacefully.
“Continued engagement is necessary to support a peaceful and productive 2026 harvest season. We urge participants to share their experiences and work towards sustainable solutions.”
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