Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago, widely known as the “Farmer-Governor,” has re-emphasized the urgent need for the Fulani community to embrace cattle ranching as a solution to farmer-herder conflicts and a path to economic empowerment.

 

The call was made during a courtesy visit from representatives of various Fulani groups, organized by the Madako Foundation for Conflict Resolution and Empowerment. Governor Bago highlighted that ranching offers a superior and more sustainable model for livestock management, which would not only checkmate insecurity but also increase income for herders through value chain production.

 

Ranching as a Path to Peace and Prosperity

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Addressing the delegation, Governor Bago commended the hard work of the Fulani people while acknowledging the state’s efforts to identify and address the activities of a criminal few. He cautioned against the invasion of farmlands, stressing the importance of peaceful coexistence for the benefit of all communities in Niger State.

The governor also used the opportunity to advocate for education, urging Fulani parents to enroll their children in schools.

 

He praised the CEO of the Madako Foundation, Hauwa Ibrahim Madako, for her initiative in creating opportunities for Fulani children to return to school. He also called on educated Fulanis to contribute their expertise to improve nomadic schools within the state.

 

Fulani Leaders Pledge Support

Dr. Abubakar Umar Girei, who represented the Lamido of Adamawa, expressed his gratitude for the governor’s consistent support for the Fulani community. He noted that Governor Bago has “vindicated and carried them along in the scheme of things.” Dr. Girei affirmed that the entire Fulani race is proud to be associated with the “Farmer-Governor” and is ready to collaborate with the state government to identify and fish out criminals to ensure peace.

 

Ibrahim Tukur El-Sudi, the Chairman of the All Progressives Congress in Taraba State, also praised Governor Bago’s passion for empowering the people, a trait he said the governor has demonstrated since his time as a federal legislator.

 

Madako Foundation’s Role

The Chief Executive Officer of the Madako Foundation, Hauwa Ibrahim Madako, explained that her organization focuses on supporting families with children with special needs, enrolling school dropouts, and engaging in conflict resolution and empowerment. She revealed that over 2,000 children across the country have benefited from the foundation’s initiatives.

 

The Director-General of School Reforms, Haj. Maimuna Mohammed, applauded the foundation’s efforts, stating that it complements the state government’s plans to construct modern school buildings in Fulani settlements across Niger State.