Kwara's Security Corps Restates Commitment, Resolved 196 Farmer-Herder Conflicts

News in brief:- Kwara State's NSCDC Agro Rangers have resolved 196 farmer-herder conflicts, enhancing farmer safety in the state.- It says that continuous patrols and dispute resolution training are protecting farmlands, fostering a secure environment for farming. The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) in Kwara State, led by Dr. Umar J.G. Muhammed, has reaffirmed its commitment to protecting farmers and boosting food security. This effort aligns with the Corps’ mandate to safeguard farmlands and mitigate conflicts, particularly those between farmers and herders, contributing to a more secure agricultural environment. Over the past year, the NSCDC’s Agro Rangers Unit has successfully resolved 196 cases involving disputes between farmers and herders. Dr. Umar noted that the rangers are trained in Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR), which fortifies them with the skills necessary to mediate conflicts effectively across the state’s 16 local government areas. By deploying these certified personnel, the NSCDC has significantly reduced instances of farmer-herder and communal clashes in Kwara. In a bid to safeguard agribusinesses, the rangers have extended security coverage to both state-owned and individual farmlands. Notably, they have stationed NSCDC personnel at strategic sites such as Shonga Farm in Edu Local Government Area, ensuring continuous surveillance. Additionally, peasant farmers and agro-allied businesses benefit from routine patrols across agrarian communities, reinforcing the safety of their investments. The Kwara NSCDC remains steadfast in its commitment to securing the agricultural sector. By prioritising farmer safety, the Corps supports sustainable development in Kwara, helping to foster a safe environment for farming activities and agricultural investment.