Jigawa Ends 47-Year Nigeria–Niger Border Land Dispute

After nearly five decades of conflict that claimed more than 1,000 lives, the Jigawa State Government has resolved the long-running farmland dispute between Jobi community in Nigeria and Kyalli community in the Republic of Niger, bringing renewed hope for lasting peace along the international border.

Governor Umar Namadi announced the resolution during the presentation of alternative farmlands to affected farmers.

The dispute, which began in 1979 over ownership of farmland, had repeatedly disrupted farming activities and strained relations between the neighbouring communities.

As part of the peace agreement, the state government allocated alternative farmland to 74 affected farmers from Jobi and provided additional farmland for 30 others.

The government also approved the conversion of part of the Dan Maka Forest Reserve into farmland to compensate those affected by the settlement.

Governor Namadi described the resolution as a major milestone, saying peace and good neighbourliness remain essential because the people of both communities share family ties, culture, religion and a long history of coexistence.

“This dispute has lasted for 47 years. We thank Almighty Allah for allowing us to witness its peaceful resolution. We also appreciate the National Boundary Commission and everyone who worked tirelessly to bring lasting peace to these communities.”

The governor said Nigerian farmers who had been cultivating land in the Republic of Niger have now been relocated to farmland within Nigeria, where more than 100 plots have been allocated to support their livelihoods.

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The peace process was coordinated by the Jigawa State Boundary Committee, led by Deputy Governor Aminu Usman.

The committee worked with traditional rulers, security agencies, community leaders and officials from both Nigeria and the Republic of Niger to find a lasting solution.

Representing the Director-General of the National Boundary Commission, Deputy Director of International Boundaries, Hajiya Yahanazu Aliyu, commended the Jigawa State Government for its commitment to peaceful conflict resolution.

She said the agreement would strengthen border security, improve cooperation between neighbouring communities and promote socio-economic development.

For residents, the agreement marks a new beginning.

Community members Musa Ahmad and Salisu Kabir said they can now return to their farms without fear of violence.

They pledged to live peacefully with their neighbours and support efforts to sustain harmony along the border.

The resolution not only ends one of the longest-running border-related disputes in the region but also highlights the importance of dialogue, community engagement and cooperation in promoting peace, food security and stability along Nigeria’s international borders.