By Mohammed Yakubu Lailai

In a significant move towards fostering agricultural development and economic progress, the Mandate Secretary for Agriculture and Rural Development Secretariat (ARDS), Lawan Kolo Geidam, alongside renowned philanthropist Balarabe Abdullahi, popularly known as Balarabe DJ Nguru, paid a courtesy visit to the Vice President of Nigeria, His Excellency Kashim Shettima, in Abuja.

The high-profile meeting underscored a strong commitment to driving sustainable development, particularly in the agricultural sector and rural economies. As the head of ARDS, Geidam has been at the forefront of repositioning agriculture in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), working towards sustainable food production and national food security. His efforts align with the federal government’s broader agenda of transforming the agricultural sector into a key driver of economic growth.

During the meeting, Balarabe DJ Nguru emphasized the potential for strategic partnerships between the Vice President, ARDS, and private sector stakeholders to foster innovation in key areas such as economic empowerment, poverty alleviation, and social welfare. He highlighted the need for increased investment in agricultural value chains, youth empowerment initiatives, and infrastructural development in Yobe State and beyond.

Vice President Shettima commended their efforts and reaffirmed the federal government’s commitment to supporting policies and initiatives that enhance food security and rural development. He stressed the importance of collaboration between government agencies and private sector players in achieving sustainable economic progress.

The meeting is expected to pave the way for stronger partnerships, policy support, and targeted interventions that will boost agricultural productivity and economic resilience. Observers anticipate that the discussions will translate into actionable programs aimed at improving livelihoods and fostering economic inclusivity in rural communities.

As Nigeria continues its drive towards self-sufficiency in food production and economic stability, the collaboration between key stakeholders, as demonstrated in this meeting, is a promising step towards achieving these national goals.

By Our Correspondent

In a bid to promote sustainable agriculture and improve livelihoods, the Faida Foundation has partnered with the Gombe State Government to empower approximately 11,000 women in agriculture.

Speaking at the official launch of the program in Gombe, the Chairperson of the Faida Foundation, Mrs. Mary Simon Garka, stated that the initiative aims to provide training and support to women farmers across the state.

According to Mrs. Garka, the program is designed to equip women with the skills and knowledge needed to adopt modern farming practices.

> “We believe that empowering women in agriculture is key to improving food security and reducing poverty in our communities,” she said.

The Gombe State Commissioner for Agriculture, Animal Husbandry, and Cooperatives, Dr. Barnabas Malle, commended the Faida Foundation for its commitment to supporting the state’s agricultural sector.

> “This partnership is a significant step towards achieving our goal of making Gombe State a hub for agricultural production,” Dr. Malle said.

The training program, which will be implemented in phases, will focus on areas such as crop production, animal husbandry, and agribusiness management.

Some beneficiaries of the program, including Aishatu Muhammad and Aminu Idris Julde, expressed their gratitude to the Faida Foundation and the Gombe State Government for the opportunity.

> “This training will help me improve my farming skills and increase my income,” said Mrs. Aishatu Muhammad, a participant.

The Faida Foundation is a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting sustainable development and improving livelihoods in rural communities.

The initiative is expected to have a lasting impact on the lives of the beneficiaries and contribute to the growth of agriculture in Gombe State.

By Our Correspondent

In a continued effort to promote peace and cooperation between farmers and herders during the harvest period, the State Committee for Farmers/Herders Settlement and Prevention of Disputes has today visited the palaces of the Emirs of Dukku and Lamido Gwana in Dukku and Akko Local Government Areas, respectively.

The delegation, led by the State Chairman of the Committee, Dr. Barnabas Malle Magayakin Kamo, who also serves as the State Commissioner for Agriculture, Animal Husbandry, and Cooperatives, emphasized the importance of fostering mutual coexistence between farmers and herders. The visit was aimed at urging local government committees and traditional rulers to strengthen efforts in maintaining peace during the critical harvest period.

Dr. Malle commended the positive response from both the local government council chairmen and the traditional institutions for their commitment to ensuring a peaceful environment. He further acknowledged the efforts of the state governor, Alhaji Mohammad Inuwa Yahaya, for his continuous push to maintain peace, particularly through the establishment of the committee. He urged all stakeholders to sustain the current momentum.

During his address, Dr. Malle outlined several key guidelines to ensure a smooth harvest period. These included restrictions on movement between local governments and neighboring states, a ban on night harvesting and grazing, and a prohibition on allowing underage children to herd cattle. He also revealed that plans were underway to reopen cattle routes in order to protect the interests of both farmers and herders in the state.

In their welcome remarks, the council chairmen of Dukku and Akko Local Government Areas, Alhaji Adamu Mohammad Waziri and Alhaji Mohammad Danladi Adamu, respectively, expressed their gratitude to the committee for its timely visit and assured the delegation of their full support in maintaining peace and harmony during the harvest period.

Representatives of herders’ organizations, including the State Chairman of Miyetti Allah, Alhaji Modibbo Yaya, and the District Head of Nasarawo, Alhaji Usman Shetima, who also serves as the Overseer Senior District Head of Gombe, along with Barrister Shuaibu Usman, representing the State Chairman of AFAN, urged their communities to respect the laws and report any suspicious activities to the relevant authorities for prompt action.

The Emir of Dukku, Alhaji Haruna Abdulkadir Rasheed, and the Emir of Lamido Gwana, Alhaji Umar Abdulkadir Abdulsalam, in their respective remarks, expressed their appreciation to the state government for the formation of the committee. Both Emirs pledged their continued support and commitment to the peace initiatives aimed at ensuring a peaceful harvest season in their domains.

The visit concluded with a Q&A session, where the stakeholders discussed various concerns and suggestions aimed at improving the relationship between farmers and herders in the region. The state committee’s efforts to engage both traditional and local government leadership highlight the critical role of collaboration in maintaining peace during this important time of the year.