The Livestock Productivity and Resilience Support Project (L-PRES) on Thursday expressed its resolve to end the protracted clashes between farmers and herders in Sokoto State.
Alhaji Sanusi Abubakar, the National Project Coordinator of L-PRESS, emphasized this commitment during an interaction with members of Miyetti Allah, butchers and other livestock marketers at Achida International Livestock Market in Wurno Local Government Area of Sokoto state.
Abubakar explained that the enduring conflicts necessitated a lasting solution.
“This project aims to rehabilitate existing gazetted grazing reserves in Sokoto and establish new fodder banks to ensure year-round accessibility and availability of livestock feed.
“The initiative targets Fulani herders and other livestock farmers, aiming to enhance productivity and increase resilience to climate change.
“Moreso, the comprehensive initiative includes the provision of improved veterinary services, housing for settlements, schools for children, portable drinking water for both humans and animals, and other essential amenities,” he said.
The coordinator added that the project’s primary objective is to resettle herders in a secure environment, reducing the need for migration in search of pastures.
He outlined intervention areas such as the Livestock Investigation and Breeding Center in Dogon-Daji town of Tambuwal Local Government Area of the state.
Abubakar said the project will upgrade facilities for artificial insemination, pasture and fodder production, and livestock feed milling.
“Furthermore, the project will conduct training sessions for livestock herders on improved breeding techniques and good animal husbandry practices,” he added.
Assuring the functionality of the Sokoto Dairy Plant, Abubakar highlighted efforts to provide necessary facilities.
According to him, the gesture is aimed to produce a substantial quantity of milk beneficial to Sokoto state and the entire country.
The coordinator and his team also visited the Sokoto Veterinary Clinic, promising an upgrade to enhance its operations as part of the project’s commitment to comprehensive livestock support.
