The government of Jigawa State has successfully settled a 47-year land conflict between Jobi in Nigeria and Kyalli in the Republic of Niger. This long-standing issue, which started in 1979, resulted in over 1,000 deaths and severely hindered agricultural work along the international boundary.
Governor Umar Namadi formalized the resolution by distributing new plots of land to impacted farmers. A total of 74 individuals who chose to leave Kyalli for Jobi received replacement land, alongside 30 other farmers who were also provided with territory. To facilitate these allocations, the administration designated portions of the Dan Maka Forest Reserve for agricultural use.
Governor Namadi highlighted the necessity of neighborly relations, noting that these communities are linked by religion, family, and heritage. Over 100 plots were distributed to relocate Nigerian farmers who formerly worked in Nigerien territory back to domestic land. The effort was spearheaded by the Jigawa State Boundary Committee, headed by Deputy Governor Aminu Usman, in partnership with local authorities, security forces, and international stakeholders.
Hajiya Yahanazu Aliyu, representing the National Boundary Commission, praised the initiative for its focus on dialogue. She stated that this agreement is expected to bolster border security and encourage economic growth. Residents have expressed relief that this prolonged cycle of violence has finally come to an end.
