The Gombe State Government has begun implementing key reforms in grazing reserves, forest reserves, game reserves, and designated cattle routes across the state.
The White Paper Implementation Committee on the Recommendations of the Assessment Committee on Grazing Reserves, Forest Reserves, Game Reserves, and Cattle Routes announced its readiness to commence the practical enforcement of the government’s directives, with clear timelines established to guide the process.
As part of efforts to ensure stakeholder engagement and smooth execution, members of the committee paid advocacy visits to the palaces of the Emir of Nafada, Muhammad Dadum Hamza, and the Emir of Funakaye, Yakubu Mohammed Kwairanga, to formally brief them on the start of the implementation phase.
Speaking during the visits, the Chairman of the Implementation Committee, retired Assistant Inspector General of Police, Babaji Sunday, said the committee is committed to implementing the recommendations approved by the Governor of Gombe State, Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya.
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He emphasized that the committee is seeking the active support of traditional institutions to ensure effective enforcement of regulations guiding gazetted grazing reserves, forest reserves, game reserves, and cattle routes throughout the state.
According to him, the initiative is expected to bring both security and economic benefits, particularly by helping to prevent recurring farmer–herder conflicts recorded in several parts of Nigeria.
The committee chairman added that advocacy and sensitization efforts have already commenced ahead of the 2026 farming season to ensure stakeholders are well informed and that proactive measures are taken to prevent disputes.
Also speaking, the Emir of Yamaltu, Abubakar Aliyu, who represents the Gombe State Council of Emirs and Chiefs on the Implementation Committee, described the assignment as crucial for sustaining the peace and stability currently enjoyed in the state.
He stressed that strict enforcement of designated land-use areas would help prevent tensions and insecurity seen in other states.
The monarch also urged residents to properly organize their farmlands and avoid encroaching on gazetted forest reserves, grazing reserves, game reserves, and cattle routes, warning that violators could face eviction in accordance with the law.
Both emirs pledged their full cooperation with the committee, assuring that traditional institutions would work closely with local government chairmen, ward heads, and Ardos to ensure compliance and community awareness.
Similarly, the chairmen of the Funakaye and Nafada Local Government Areas expressed their support for the initiative, noting that the long-term benefits of the reforms would strengthen security, boost agricultural productivity, and improve the overall economic and social well-being of residents across Gombe State.
