Nigeria, Niger seek end to herders, farmers clash

Jigawa State in northern Nigeria and Niamey Province in neighbouring Niger are coordinating efforts to end frequent clashes between cattle herders and farmers in their adjoining areas, a Nigerian newspaper reported on Tuesday. ‘Vanguard’ a Lagos daily reported Jigawa Commissioner for Information, Babanna Aujara, as saying a state government delegation recently visited Niamey to had talks with authorities there on ways to contain the clashes and ensure peace between communities on both sides of the border. Aujara also said attention was equally being given to the need to check the ravages of cerebro-spinal meningitis in their areas during the dry season. Plans are also being pursued for wider development cooperation, including the training of engineers and technicians. Clashes between farmers and herders have grown frequent in the region in recent years as the increasing desertification has put greater pressure on available pasture and water sources. The area between northern Nigeria and southern Niger is also susceptible to frequent meningitis epidemics.