Land Use Disputes Fuel Insecurity in Nigeria, Says Tuggar

Yusuf Tuggar, the former Minister of Foreign Affairs, highlighted that land use disputes are a significant contributor to insecurity in various parts of Nigeria, particularly in Bauchi State. During an interaction with newsmen, Tuggar noted that tensions between farmers and herders are largely driven by restricted grazing routes and the pressure on available land resources.

He urged residents of Bauchi to allow Fulani herders access to grazing routes, as the situation has worsened due to encroachments on designated grazing areas and underutilized farmland. Tuggar pointed out that denying pastoralists access to grazing routes leads to economic hardships for rural communities, escalating frustrations and insecurity.

He stressed the importance of managing land use policies effectively to promote coexistence between farming and pastoralist communities. Additionally, Tuggar called for stronger collaboration among traditional rulers, local government authorities, and communities to address land-related disputes and reduce tensions between farmers and herders.

He also emphasized tackling land use imbalances alongside issues of unemployment and economic exclusion to enhance stability in Bauchi State and the country at large.