By Ikugbadi Oluwasegun
The Ekiti State Government has inaugurated a Conflict Prevention and Mediation Committee across the State’s 16 Local Government Areas. This initiative, led by the Livestock Productivity & Resilience Support Project (L-PRES), aims to enhance social cohesion and ensure food security through climate-smart agricultural practices.
This is a significant step towards fostering peaceful coexistence between herders and farmers.
During the inauguration in Ado Ekiti, Hon. Ebenezer Boluwade, State Commissioner for Agriculture and Food Security, emphasised the committee’s role in promoting social cohesion and mitigating climate change impacts. The committee includes representatives from the Ekiti State Council of Traditional Rulers, Nigeria Police, All Farmers Association of Nigeria (AFAN), and cattle rearers.
Engr. Olugbenga Odesanmi, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security, highlighted L-PRES’s commitment to supporting farmers and livestock producers. Mr. Muyiwa Adelodun, representing the State Project Coordinator, outlined the committee’s objectives, including capacity building and conflict resolution.
Key figures, including Oba Adetunji Ajayi and Rt Hon. Tope Ademiluyi, praised the initiative for its potential to enhance food security and peaceful coexistence. Alhaji Mahammadu Nasamu, Chairman of the Miyetti Allah in Ekiti, pledged to support peaceful coexistence and address criminal activities among herders.