Former Vice President Yemi Osinbajo highlighted the ongoing farmer/herder conflict in Nigeria, asserting that it is deeply rooted in political dynamics and climate change issues.
He made these remarks during the Nigerian Institution of Surveyors’ 42nd Annual Olumide Lectures (OML) held in Abuja over the weekend.
Osinbajo noted that during his administration, efforts were made to tackle this persistent problem through the introduction of a National Livestock Transformation Plan aimed at regulating the movement of livestock across the country.
“We were able to secure the agreement of all 36 state governments, including the Federal Capital Territory (FCT),” he stated. “I believe that implementing the National Livestock Transformation Plan will significantly contribute to resolving the farmer/herder crisis.”
He pointed out that the migration of herders is largely driven by climate change, which leads to desertification and the depletion of wetlands. “The Lake Chad region, which has shrunk by approximately 2000 square kilometers, illustrates this issue well. Those who previously relied on farming and fishing in that area are now forced to seek alternatives,” Osinbajo explained. “Thus, there is a clear link between the farmer/herder conflict and environmental degradation, particularly desertification.”
On the topic of gas flaring, Osinbajo described it as a significant challenge facing Nigeria, emphasizing the need for commercialization of the flared gas. He acknowledged that while gas flaring is a global issue, it can be addressed. “The solution lies in commercializing the gas being flared. We are looking to introduce a bill for companies interested in collecting this gas,” he said.
He further elaborated, “Gas flaring is a serious global issue, with Russia leading in flaring activities, alongside countries like the United States, Venezuela, and Angola. Nigeria aims to find ways to commercialize this flared gas, particularly from smaller wells linked to major oil companies. A few small oil firms have shown interest in participating in this initiative.”
Osinbajo concluded, “While commercializing gas flaring might not completely solve the problem, it can certainly mitigate it. The Niger Delta region suffers significantly from pollution, and I am hopeful that this approach will lead to tangible improvements.”
