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How Nigerian Catholic Diocese is Facilitating “a safe environment” for Farmer-Herder Peaceful Coexistence ahead of Rains

Bishop Mark Maigida Nzukwein of Nigeria's Catholic Diocese of Wukari. Credit: ACI Africa

As the 2025 rainy season in Nigeria approaches, signalling the start of planting, Bishop Mark Maigida Nzukwein of the country’s Catholic Diocese of Wukari has outlined how he is spearheading the realization of peaceful coexistence between farmers and herders ahead of the rainy season.

In an interview with ACI Africa on the sidelines of the First Plenary Assembly of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Nigeria (CBCN), Bishop Maigida said that the initiatives towards farmer-herder peaceful relations are in collaboration various stakeholders. 

“We are making every effort in my Diocese to ensure security by working with traditional rulers, civil authorities, vigilante groups, and even the youth to gather intelligence on possible threats to farmers,” he said during the Tuesday, March 11 interview. 

He emphasized, “We want to create a safe environment where people can farm without fear.”

The Nigerian Catholic Bishop acknowledged the challenges that the occupation of farmlands by armed groups poses, but for him, however, dialogue remains a key approach to the crisis.

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“Some of the farmlands have been taken over by Fulani militia, but we are engaging in dialogue to show them that peaceful coexistence is possible,” he said, adding, “If herders want to farm, they can request land, and we will allocate portions to them. However, they should not forcefully take over the entire farmland. People need food just as they need livestock.”

The pioneer Bishop of Wukari Diocese that Pope Francis erected in December 2022 told ACI Africa that his Episcopal See “will continue to engage their leaders to ensure that our farmers can return to their lands without fear; and we are hopeful that through dialogue, herders will stop attacking farmers.”

During the March 11 interview, Bishop Maigida reflected on the ongoing efforts to restore peace in an area that has been plagued by violent clashes between farmers and herders for more than two decades.

“We have taken several steps in Wukari to foster peace. I have personally held peace meetings with traditional rulers, stakeholders, and even within the church itself. Wherever I go, especially during pastoral visits, I emphasize the importance of peace,” he said.

The Nigerian Catholic Bishop reaffirmed that the peace efforts are beginning to yield results.

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“People now recognize that we stand for peace. We will continue pushing for reconciliation, and we strongly believe that our efforts in prayer, pilgrimages, and reparation will bring unity and lasting peace,” the Local Ordinary of Wukari said.

Despite the church's persistent calls for action, Bishop Maigida is concerned that the Nigerian government has not demonstrated sufficient commitment to resolving the country's security challenges.

“For years, the Catholic Bishops Conference of Nigeria has reminded the government of its responsibility to provide security and good governance. Unfortunately, it seems the government is unwilling to put an end to the lingering insecurity,” he lamented. 

In the interview, the Bishop went on to urge relevant Nigerian authorities to “act swiftly to prevent a food crisis”, warning that insecurity poses a serious threat to agricultural activities.

“The rainy season is here, and farmers need to cultivate their land. We call on the government to take immediate action and provide the necessary security. The suffering in the country is too much, and urgent measures must be taken,” Bishop Maigida reiterated. 

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He cautioned against underestimating Nigerians' resilience and patience, saying, “It seems like the government is pushing the people to the wall. Nigerians are patient and resilient, but they should not be taken for granted. If the authorities fail to address these challenges, the situation will only worsen.”

 The 55-year-old Catholic Bishop reaffirmed the Church’s commitment to peace-building and ensuring that farmers can work without fear.

“We will continue to engage all stakeholders and intensify our prayers for peace, unity, and security. We believe that through collective efforts, we can overcome these challenges and restore stability in our communities,” he told ACI Africa on March 11.

Abah Anthony John is a Nigerian Journalist with great enthusiasm and interest for Catholic Church Communication and Media Apostolate. He holds a Bachelor's degree in Mass Communication from Benue State University, Makurdi, Benue State Nigeria. He has vast experience in Print,  Electronic and Multi-Media Production.