The Bauchi State Governor, Bala Mohammed, has warned traditional rulers against the indiscriminate allocation or sale of community reserve lands, emphasizing that such areas are preserved for collective and long-term purposes, including designated grazing zones.
He made it clear that the state government will not hesitate to step in wherever abuses or unauthorized transactions are discovered.
The governor gave the warning during the launch of the 2026 dry season farming programme in Misau Local Government Area.
He explained that reserve lands remain critical to maintaining balance between farming and livestock activities, noting that careless distribution could threaten social harmony and undermine future development plans.
According to him, the administration is committed to strengthening agriculture through consistent support for local farmers.
He highlighted plans for the continued supply of subsidized fertilizer, improved seedlings, and other essential inputs aimed at increasing productivity, tackling poverty, and improving food security across the state.
He also stated that the dry season farming initiative is designed to expand irrigation farming, promote the adoption of modern agricultural methods, and encourage year-round cultivation.
This, he said, will reduce dependence on seasonal rainfall and create more economic opportunities for residents.
The governor called on traditional leaders, community heads, and other stakeholders to promote peaceful coexistence between farmers and herders.
He cautioned against allowing criminal elements to exploit forests and farmlands as hiding places, stressing that both groups depend on each other for survival and economic growth.
In his remarks, the Commissioner for Agriculture, Dr Iliyasu Aliyu Gital, assured farmers that distribution of farm inputs would be carried out promptly.
He reaffirmed the ministry’s commitment to ensuring that all agricultural support programmes are fully implemented for the benefit of rural communities.
