The World Bank and the Federal Government have commended Gombe State for adopting a proactive, inclusive and institutional approach to conflict mitigation, particularly in tackling farmer-herder clashes and fostering community resilience.
A joint delegation, led by the Senior Social Development Specialist at the World Bank, Hajiya Zara Goni, and the National Conflict Mitigation Officer of the Livestock Productivity and Resilience Support (L-PRES) Project, Nazifi Ibrahim Wada, made the commendation during a working mission to assess L-PRES interventions in the state.
Goni lauded the inclusion of women, persons with disabilities and civil society organisations in conflict mitigation committees, describing Gombe’s model as an “outstanding example of inclusive governance”.
“We are particularly impressed with the functionality of local structures and the inclusiveness of conflict prevention mechanisms. These are key to ensuring sustained peace,” she said, while urging communities to report grievances, safety concerns or early signs of conflict to relevant authorities.
Wada called for the review and enactment of updated legal frameworks to strengthen conflict resolution, stressing that some existing laws were outdated and ineffective.
“Robust legal backing will provide a sustainable and proactive approach to addressing disputes. Early warning signs, such as unusual gatherings or suspicious behaviour, must be taken seriously,” he said, pledging continued support for training and capacity building at state and local levels.
The Commissioner for Agriculture, Animal Husbandry and Cooperatives, Dr. Barnabas Malle, reaffirmed Gov. Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya’s commitment to peaceful coexistence and inclusive governance.
He highlighted initiatives such as the Standing Committee on Farmers/Herders Conflict Prevention and Resolution, the resurvey and remapping of cattle routes, and seasonal restrictions on migratory herders to minimise flashpoints.
The delegation also visited Shongom Local Government Area, where the Executive Chairperson, Hajiya Fatima Binta Bello, outlined the LGA’s conflict prevention strategy and praised L-PRES for infrastructure improvements at the Lalapido Livestock Market, including sheds, toilets, drainage and water supply.
The team inspected several intervention sites, including the Dukku Veterinary Clinic and ongoing projects in resurveying and securing grazing reserves in Wawa-Zange, Dukku LGA.
