Jigawa resettles returnee farmers from Niger Republic after 47 years of dispute

Jigawa State Government, working alongside the National Boundary Commission (NBC), has successfully resolved a longstanding 47-year-old farmland dispute between border communities in Nigeria and the Republic of Niger. The agreement marks the relocation of 74 Nigerian farmers from the Jobi community in Maigatari Local Government Area back to Nigerian soil, ending a conflict that had severely impacted agricultural production, strained diplomatic relations, and resulted in loss of life. The dispute originated in 1979, pitting the Jobi community against the Kyalli community in the Zinder Region of Niger. Over the decades, tensions escalated as farmland was repeatedly taken from Nigerian farmers, leading to violence and displacement. The issue remained unresolved despite multiple attempts at negotiation, until recent collaborative efforts between Jigawa State and the NBC brought a definitive solution. Central to this resolution was the work of the Jigawa State Boundary Committee, headed by Deputy Governor Aminu Usman. Through coordinated field investigations with NBC personnel, the committee engaged extensively with traditional leaders, security forces, and representatives from both countries. These discussions culminated in two key recommendations aimed at permanently resolving the conflict. First, the Jobi community was instructed to stop cultivating lands owned by the Kyalli community in Niger. Second, the Jigawa State Government committed to providing viable farmland within Nigerian territory for displaced farmers. Governor Umar Namadi endorsed these proposals, approving the de-reservation of part of the Dan-Makama Forest Reserve for agricultural purposes. The State Ministry of Lands, Housing, Urban Development, and Regional Planning facilitated the redistribution of land, ensuring that affected farmers received suitable plots for farming. At a ceremony in Sule Tankarkar Local Government Area, Governor Namadi officially launched the resettlement program, announcing the allocation of more than 100 farmland plots. These plots would benefit 74 primary recipients, with additional land set aside for 30 others to sustain their livelihoods. “I am pleased to announce the successful resolution of a dispute that has plagued our people for four decades,” Governor Namadi remarked. “This achievement is a testament to the power of cooperation and diplomacy. We extend our gratitude to the National Boundary Commission and all stakeholders who contributed to this outcome. Peace and good neighborliness remain vital, especially since the people of both communities share cultural, religious, and historical bonds.” Yahanasu Aliyu, Deputy Director of International Boundaries at the NBC, expressed appreciation for the proactive approach of the Jigawa State Government. He highlighted how the state's prompt action in identifying and approving alternative land showcased a dedication to protecting citizens' livelihoods and maintaining regional harmony. The NBC emphasized the importance of embracing the new farmland in the spirit of peace and mutual respect. It reiterated its commitment to enhancing border governance and security throughout Nigeria. Resettled farmers have shared their experiences, describing the challenges they endured. Ado Musa recounted how his community’s farmland was seized and left fallow for years, and that even after paying land taxes, their rights were revoked. “Many people lost their lives to trauma, leaving families with nothing,” he said. “Fortunately, the state government stepped in and provided us with new farmland within Nigeria’s borders to help restore our economic prosperity.” Similarly, Mr. Bello described the hardship faced by farmers after their land in Niger was taken away. “The conditions were severe,” he said, emphasizing the emotional and financial toll of the prolonged conflict. The new plots, however, offer hope for recovery and renewed stability for the affected communities.