By Editor Daily Fact

The Gombe State Farmers–Herders Prevention and Settlement of Disputes Committee has praised farmers and herders across the state for maintaining peace throughout the 2025–2026 harvest season.

This commendation was contained in a press release signed by the Commissioner for Agriculture, Animal Husbandry and Cooperatives, Dr. Barnabas Malle, who described the peaceful coexistence recorded during the period as a major achievement for the state.

According to the statement, the committee expressed its appreciation to local government chairmen, traditional rulers, security agencies, the media, and the general public for their collective efforts and cooperation, which contributed significantly to the prevention and peaceful resolution of disputes.

Dr. Malle announced that, following the successful harvest season and improved security situation, the ban on entry into Gombe State has been lifted with effect from January 31, 2026. He noted that the decision was taken after careful assessment and consultations with relevant stakeholders.

However, the commissioner cautioned herders to strictly avoid dry-season farming areas to prevent fresh conflicts, stressing that peaceful coexistence remains a top priority of the state government.

He further urged residents to remain vigilant and cooperate with security agencies by promptly reporting any suspicious activities or movements of criminal elements to the appropriate authorities.

The committee reaffirmed its commitment to sustaining peace between farmers and herders in Gombe State and called on all stakeholders to continue to uphold dialogue, tolerance, and mutual respect for the overall development of the state.

By Our Correspondent

The Chairman of the Gombe State Farmers/Herders Settlement and Dispute Prevention Committee, Dr. Barnabas Malle, has directed chairmen of the eleven local government areas particularly those sharing borders with other states to intensify efforts in blocking herders’ entry points until the end of January 2026 to ensure a peaceful and successful harvest season.

Dr. Malle, who is also the State Commissioner for Agriculture, Animal Husbandry, and Cooperatives, gave the directive during a meeting with committee members held at the ministry’s conference hall. The meeting was convened to review last year’s achievements and to strategize towards ensuring a hitch-free harvest this year.

The commissioner emphasized that inter-local government movement of herders remains restricted, while the ban on night grazing between 6:00 p.m. and 6:00 a.m. is still in full force. He also cautioned farmers against harvesting or transporting crops during the same night hours, stressing that such measures are aimed at preventing unnecessary conflicts and ensuring safety across the state’s farming communities.

Dr. Malle urged both farmers and herders to refrain from taking the law into their own hands, advising them instead to report any grievances or disputes to the nearest authorities for prompt and lawful resolution.

While expressing appreciation to Governor Alhaji Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya for his unwavering commitment to policies that promote peaceful coexistence between farmers and herders, the committee chairman called for the continued support of traditional rulers and security agencies to ensure the success of this year’s exercise.

In their separate remarks, the Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, Lt. Col. Abdullahi Bello (Rtd), and the State Chairman of Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association, Alhaji Modibbo Yaya, commended the committee’s efforts and the cooperation received from both farmers and herders. They pledged to strengthen their collaboration to sustain peace and protect the gains recorded in previous farming seasons.

The state’s proactive stance aims to prevent the perennial farmers, herders conflicts and safeguard agricultural productivity as the harvest season peaks.

By: Zulqarnain Muhammad

In a bold step to combat drug abuse and prevent violent extremism, the Lake Chad Peace and Development Initiative (LCPD) in partnership with Yobe Young Generation Development Association (YOYGEDA), and with funding support from the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), has launched the Youth Against Drug Abuse (YADA) campaign in Yobe State.

The campaign took place on August 3rd and 4th, 2025, in Buni Yadi and Bara towns of Gujba and Gulani LGAs. It brought together over 400 youth, both in-school and out-of-school, for a series of interactive sessions, rallies, and community engagements aimed at creating awareness on the dangers of drug abuse and its link to violent extremism.

Activities during the two-day outreach included discussions with the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), drama performances, motivational songs, and testimonies from reformed users and local leaders — all delivered in English and Hausa to reach a wide audience.

The initiative supports Pillar 8 of the Regional Strategy for Stabilization, Recovery, and Resilience (RS-SRR) and aligns with the Yobe State Territorial Action Plan by promoting youth empowerment and peacebuilding at the grassroots.

The campaign also introduced a youth-led drug abuse reporting and referral mechanism in collaboration with NDLEA, setting the stage for long-term community-based solutions to tackle substance abuse and radicalization.