The Speaker of the Yobe State House of Assembly, Buba Chiroma-Mashio, has raised concerns about the growing number of wayward Fulani children, attributing this trend to a lack of access to both Western and Islamic education. He made this statement during the celebration of the International Day of the World’s Indigenous Peoples in Damaturu, the state capital.
Chiroma-Mashio, who represented Governor Mai Mala Buni at the event, emphasized the cultural and ethical implications of neglecting education within the Fulani community. “The lack of Western and Islamic education has forced Fulani children to become wayward, which is unethical to the culture and practices of the Fulani people,” he stated.
He further highlighted the persistent challenges facing herders, including the lack of adequate grazing reserves, encroachment on farmlands, and the obstruction of cattle routes, which have led to clashes between farmers and herders. “This is one more reason why the administration of Governor Mai Mala Buni embarked on the construction of the Nazari grazing reserve in the Jakusko local government area and another in the Fika local government area,” he added.
Aliyu Usman Jejere, Chairman of the Fulbe Development and Cultural Organisation (FUDECO), echoed this sentiment and called on Governor Buni to establish a Ministry of Livestock Development. According to Jejere, such a ministry would help mitigate conflicts between farmers and herders.
Professor Muhammad Bello Kawuwa, Commissioner of Higher Education in Yobe State, also stressed the need for unity among Fulani people for the progress of the state and the nation. “The exemplary leadership of Governor Buni has continued to foster harmony between Fulani groups and other ethnic groups,” he noted.
This year’s theme for the International Day of the World’s Indigenous Peoples was “Protecting the Rights of Indigenous Peoples in Voluntary Isolation and Initial Contact.” The United Nations recognizes Indigenous Peoples as key protectors of forests, underscoring the importance of their role in preserving natural resources.
