Jigawa turns to cross-border water projects to curb farmer–herder clashes

Jigawa State has adopted an unconventional cross-border water intervention strategy aimed at reducing recurring farmer–herder conflicts triggered by seasonal livestock migration from neighbouring Niger Republic.

Governor Umar Namadi disclosed this while receiving a delegation from the Strategic Intelligence Management Institute at the Government House in Dutse.

He explained that the influx of cattle and camels into Jigawa—especially during periods of extreme weather in the Niger Republic—has historically placed pressure on land and water resources, often igniting tensions between local farmers and pastoralists.

To address this, the State Government initiated the provision of water facilities across the border, a move designed to delay the migration of herders into Nigerian territory until after harvest periods.

According to the governor, the initiative has already begun yielding positive results by significantly reducing clashes and fostering peaceful coexistence.

“We introduced a strategy of providing water facilities across the border so that herders can remain there longer until our farmers harvest their crops. This has significantly reduced conflicts,” Namadi said.

He noted that the approach forms part of a broader shift towards proactive and intelligence-driven security management, rather than reactive measures.

Namadi further attributed Jigawa’s relative stability, despite its proximity to volatile border regions, to deliberate policies anchored on collaboration with security agencies and sustained engagement with border communities.

“As a frontline state bordering the Niger Republic, Jigawa occupies a strategic position in Nigeria’s security architecture. Innovative and locally adaptable solutions like this are critical in addressing transnational challenges,” he added.

The governor also assured the visiting delegation of his administration’s readiness to support initiatives that would strengthen security frameworks across the state and the country.

Leader of the delegation, M.D. Aliyu, commended the Jigawa State Government for its hospitality and described the water intervention strategy as a practical response to complex border challenges.

He explained that the visit formed part of the Strategic Intelligence Management Course II, designed to expose senior security and intelligence officers to real-world security dynamics.

Aliyu said Jigawa was selected for the study tour due to its unique border characteristics and effective handling of security concerns.

He added that interactions with key stakeholders in the state would deepen participants’ understanding of issues such as illegal migration, smuggling, arms trafficking, and other forms of transnational organised crime.

“This engagement will enhance participants’ capacity to develop informed policy recommendations on border security and related challenges,” he said.

The initiative underscores a growing recognition among subnational governments of the need for innovative, preventive strategies in addressing security threats linked to migration, climate pressures, and resource competition.