Ilorin: The Kwara State Governor, AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, has received the geospatial mapping results conducted to address farmer-herder conflicts and enhance livestock development in the state. The mapping is part of efforts under Kwara’s Livestock Productivity and Resilience Support (L-PRES) Project.
According to Voice of Nigeria, the state government engaged the Centre for Dryland Agriculture at Bayero University, Kano, for this exercise. This initiative also includes the acquisition of extension materials for improving livestock productivity. During a presentation ceremony in Ilorin, the Governor praised the university’s research directorate for their dedication and assured the state’s commitment to implementing the findings.
The event saw the presence of significant figures, including the Minister of Livestock’s representative, Richard Mbaram Esq; Kwara legislators; and top state officials. The Governor emphasized the significance of the geospatial mapping, stating it would aid in making evidence-based decisions for livestock development, conflict prevention, and sustainable natural resource management.
The findings highlighted significant changes in land use, vegetation cover, and issues like the uneven distribution of water points and challenges in grazing corridors. The Governor called on traditional rulers, community leaders, and other stakeholders to collaborate with the government in implementing the study’s recommendations.
The programme was attended by the National Coordinator for L-PRES, Sanusi Abubakar, traditional rulers, and other stakeholders. Oloruntoyosi Thomas, the Commissioner for Livestock Development, emphasized the Ministry’s commitment to using the geospatial database for planning and policy formulation.
Richard Mbaram, representing the Minister, described the event as a pivotal moment in addressing farmer-herder conflicts, as part of Nigeria’s 10-year National Livestock Transformation Plan. Furthermore, Sanusi Abubakar announced new approvals for Kwara State, including the construction of a veterinary hospital and an animal boarding facility, as well as the supply of vaccines to prevent animal diseases.