Reported by: Oahimire Omone Precious | Edited by: Bornet .k
The Jigawa State Government has announced the resolution of a decades-long farmland dispute between communities in Nigeria and the Republic of Niger, ending nearly 47 years of tension that affected relations and farming activities along the international border.
The dispute, involving Jobi community in Nigeria and Kyalli community in the Republic of Niger, began in 1979 over claims of ownership and access to agricultural land. Over the years, the disagreement reportedly resulted in repeated clashes, loss of lives and disruption of farming activities for residents who depended on the disputed areas for their livelihoods.
Jigawa State Governor Umar Namadi announced the peaceful settlement during the presentation of alternative farmland to affected farmers, describing the agreement as a major achievement for peace and stability in the border communities.
The governor said the resolution was achieved through cooperation among government authorities, traditional institutions, security agencies, community leaders and officials from both Nigeria and Niger.
He explained that the people of Jobi and Kyalli share deep historical connections, including family relationships, cultural similarities and religious ties, making peaceful coexistence essential for the future of both communities.
“This dispute has lasted for 47 years. We thank Almighty Allah for allowing us to witness its peaceful resolution,” Namadi said, while commending the National Boundary Commission and other stakeholders who contributed to the settlement process.
As part of the agreement, the Jigawa State Government allocated alternative farmland to 74 affected farmers from Jobi community and provided additional farmland for 30 others. The government also approved the conversion of part of the Dan Maka Forest Reserve into agricultural land to compensate farmers affected by the settlement arrangement.
Governor Namadi stated that Nigerian farmers who previously cultivated land across the border in Niger had now been relocated to farmland within Nigeria. More than 100 plots were reportedly allocated to support their agricultural activities and ensure they can continue earning a living without renewed disputes.
The peace initiative was coordinated by the Jigawa State Boundary Committee, led by Deputy Governor Aminu Usman. The committee worked closely with traditional rulers, community representatives, security personnel and officials from both countries to develop a lasting solution.
Representing the Director-General of the National Boundary Commission, Deputy Director of International Boundaries Hajiya Yahanazu Aliyu praised the Jigawa Government for its commitment to dialogue and peaceful conflict resolution.
She said the agreement would help strengthen border security, improve cooperation between neighbouring communities and create opportunities for economic development in the region.
Residents of the affected communities welcomed the development, describing it as a new beginning after years of uncertainty and fear.
Community members Musa Ahmad and Salisu Kabir said farmers can now return to their fields with greater confidence and security. They promised to maintain peaceful relations with neighbouring communities and support efforts aimed at preventing future conflicts.
The settlement comes at a time when Nigeria continues to face challenges involving land disputes, farmer-herder conflicts and insecurity in different parts of the country. Analysts have often highlighted the importance of community-based negotiations and traditional mediation in resolving local disputes before they escalate into wider conflicts.
The Jigawa-Niger agreement is also seen as significant because it demonstrates the role of cooperation between neighbouring countries in managing border issues. Nigeria shares a long border with Niger, and many communities along the frontier have historically maintained social and economic links that existed before modern international boundaries were established.
Beyond ending a decades-old dispute, authorities hope the agreement will improve agricultural productivity, strengthen food security and encourage closer relations between communities on both sides of the border.
The successful resolution of the Jobi-Kyalli farmland conflict has been described as an example of how dialogue, compromise and cooperation can help address long-standing disputes and promote lasting peace in border regions.
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