A don, Prof. Oluwafemi Onifade, has suggested the adoption of controlled grazing policy to end incessant farmers/herdsmen conflict across the country.
Onifade, of the Department of Pasture and Range Management, Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta, made the suggestion during an experience sharing workshop held in Lokoja on Monday.
He explained that controlled grazing allows for integrated crops and livestock farming practice, saying it will put an end to the conflicts, wastage and killing associated with livestock herding.
The don, who is also a Consultant to Synergos, said that series of research carried out on the concept of controlled grazing had indicated that it is most effective in bringing about peace between farmers and herdsmen.
According to him, the concept has been successfully tested on three selected communities in Kogi, Kaduna and Benue States to pilot its implementation in the country.
He said that the concept, which involves training of herdsmen and farmers in critical areas of their professions, also come with a lot of benefits for them.
The Research Officer of the Synergos, Dr Monele Saleh, said that the concept, apart from eliminating conflict, will also increase the capacity and enhance income for the farmers and herdsmen.
He called on government at all levels to give the policy a trial.
Synergos is an international non-governmental organisation being funded by Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation.
The Kogi State Commissioner for Agriculture, Mr Kehinde Oloruntoba, while declaring the workshop open, called for a peaceful co-existence between farmers and herdsmen.
He also commended the Synergos for its efforts at assisting the country to overcome incessant clashes between herdsmen and farmers.
Participants at the workshop were drawn from the ministries of agriculture, finance and budget, Agricultural Development Project and local governments. (NAN)
