By Muyideen Aliyu, Ilorin
Kwara State Government has pledged to prioritise the education of Fulani herders’ children, aiming to equip them to become constructive members of society and future leaders as part of its broader strategy to confront armed banditry and security challenges.
Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq made this known during a security meeting convened by the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association (MACBAN), which brought together herders, security officials, and other key stakeholders from all 16 local government areas in Ilorin.
Represented by his Special Adviser on Strategy, Abdulsalam Atiku, the Governor explained that educating the Fulani youth would act as a deterrent against their involvement in criminal activities. He emphasised that tackling insecurity demands a structured approach, using education to raise awareness about the consequences of engaging in unlawful behaviour.
AbdulRazaq also stressed the importance of encouraging Fulani herders to embrace modern cattle-rearing techniques, moving away from the traditional practice of roaming through forested areas.
He highlighted various government initiatives introduced to support herders throughout the state, designed to enhance their livelihoods and promote sustainable practices.
The Governor called on Fulani leaders to renew their dedication to security efforts and improve welfare provisions for their communities, stressing that resolving farmer-herder conflicts will require a unified and cooperative approach.
Earlier, Hajiya Aishatu Yusuf Baruten, the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Herdsmen and Community Outreach, reaffirmed the government’s commitment to maintaining security in every part of the state. She appealed to residents within Fulani communities to assist in upholding law and order.
Saidu Baba, the member representing Banni/Adena State Constituency at the Kwara State House of Assembly, described insecurity as a growing crisis that requires robust action. He referred to banditry, kidnapping, and cattle rustling as escalating threats to both the state and the country. Baba assured that legislators would continue to pass laws aimed at minimising security risks and called for cooperation among all stakeholders to eradicate insecurity.
Alhaji Shehu Garba, Chairman of MACBAN in Kwara State, painted a grim picture of life for Fulani herders, stating that insecurity had rendered their livelihoods untenable. He urged herders to back government initiatives addressing security concerns and warned that neglecting these issues could result in the collapse of livestock farming in the state and beyond.
The Hardon Hardodi (Fulani Leader) of Kwara State, Alhaji Ojonla Mahmud, represented by Ali Muhammed Jowuro, assured that herders would fully support government measures aimed at ending insecurity. He encouraged vigilance within herding communities and stressed the importance of promptly reporting suspicious activities to security agencies.
Abdulazeez Mohammed, State Secretary of MACBAN, said the meeting aimed to raise awareness about security threats, particularly in Kwara South. He reported that herders face frequent abductions and loss of livestock, causing many to abandon their homes in fear.
Mohammed lamented the widespread perception of herders as troublemakers, which has led to persecution, and appealed for collective support to restore peace and security across affected communities in the state.