Authorities in Gombe State have begun implementing measures aimed at preventing disputes between farmers and pastoralists as preparations for the 2026 farming season gather momentum.
The initiative follows the start of the implementation phase of a White Paper that emerged from the findings of an assessment committee earlier set up by the state government.
The recommendations were approved by Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya as part of efforts to strengthen security and maintain harmony among rural communities.
Chairman of the White Paper Implementation Committee, AIG Babaji Sunday (Rtd.), revealed that engagements with community leaders have already begun.
According to him, the committee is visiting traditional institutions to brief them on the new directives and to mobilise support ahead of the coming farming season.
He explained that the government intends to strictly regulate the use of designated grazing reserves, forest reserves, wildlife conservation areas and officially recognised cattle routes across the state.
The objective, he noted, is to ensure that land set aside for specific purposes is protected in line with existing laws so that friction between farmers and herders can be minimised.
Sunday said awareness campaigns and consultations with stakeholders are ongoing in order to keep farmers, pastoralists and local leaders fully informed about the rules guiding land use.
A statement issued by the governor’s Director General on Press Affairs, Ismaila Uba Misilli, indicated that the committee is working closely with traditional authorities to ensure that the regulations are properly understood and respected at the community level.
In his remarks, the Emir of Yamaltu, Abubakar Aliyu, who represents the Gombe State Council of Emirs and Chiefs on the implementation committee, described the task as important for preserving the relative peace being experienced in the state.
He cautioned residents against encroaching on land officially designated as forest reserves, grazing areas and cattle routes.
Farmers were also advised to clearly define their farmlands to avoid penalties once enforcement begins.
