The Federal Government has announced its forthcoming launch of the Pulaku Initiative, a large-scale resettlement program aimed at tackling the persistent clashes between farmers and herders across various flashpoints in the country.
The initiative, also known as the “Fulani code of conduct,” is deeply rooted in the cultural and ethical values specific to the Fulani community.
In an official statement signed by Stanley Nkwocha, the Senior Special Assistant on Media and Communications to the Vice President, it was confirmed that the program will initially focus on seven states heavily affected by farmers-herders conflicts. These states include Sokoto, Kebbi, Benue, Katsina, Zamfara, Niger, and Kaduna. The statement, titled “Pulaku Initiative set for kick-off as VP Shettima inaugurates implementation committee,” highlights the importance of this initiative in addressing the longstanding challenges faced by Nigerians, particularly those residing in the northern region.
This development comes after Vice President Kashim Shettima, eight months ago, unveiled the government’s plans to introduce an initiative to combat insurgency, poverty, and other issues prevalent in the northern region. During his visits to the families of Galadanci and Mangal in Kano and Katsina respectively on July 16, 2023, Shettima emphasized that a sustainable resolution to the security crisis in Nigeria’s Northwest requires both kinetic and non-kinetic strategies.
To oversee the implementation of the Pulaku Initiative, Vice President Shettima recently inaugurated a steering committee at the Presidential Villa in Abuja. During the inauguration, he explained that the selection of the seven states was a deliberate and strategic approach aimed at generating positive outcomes that would not only revitalize communities but also foster inclusivity and unity in Nigeria.
The Federal Government is committed to revitalizing conflict-affected communities by constructing residential buildings, roads, schools, and essential facilities. Vice President Shettima emphasized that this project should be considered an emergency response to a challenge that has undermined the nation’s fabric. He reaffirmed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s commitment to creating an environment where the prosperity of Nigerians becomes a tangible and achievable reality. Shettima further assured citizens that the Pulaku Initiative would not only address the persistent challenge but also serve as a call to action, requiring collective resolve, justice, and compassion.
Governor Uba Sani of Kaduna State, speaking to journalists after the meeting, announced that the program’s launch date is scheduled for the next two weeks. He highlighted that the initiative would provide support to those affected by insecurity, including the construction of houses, schools, hospitals, and other necessary assistance.
Governor Hyacinth Alia of Benue State expressed his optimism for the initiative, emphasizing the need for tactical support for farmers in his state to mitigate farmers-herders clashes. Alia emphasized that full investment in agriculture, as intended by the program, would contribute to curbing the insecurity challenges currently faced. Furthermore, it would provide displaced individuals with new homes.
The implementation committee, chaired by Minister of Housing and Urban Development Ahmed Dangiwa, consists of representatives from the benefiting states’ governors, as well as officials from various institutions including the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, the Bureau of Public Procurement, the BUA Group, the Dangote Group, and the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA).
The meeting was attended by representatives from several Nigerian states and institutions, including Governors Hyacinth Alia of Benue State, Uba Sani of Kaduna State, Mohammed Bago of Niger State, Nasir Idris of Kebbi State, Dikko Radah of Katsina State, and Dauda Lawal of Zamfara State. Also present were the Ministers of Agriculture and Food Security, Sen. Abubakar Kyari, Minister of Housing and Urban Development, Arc Ahmed Musa Dangiwa, Chairman of the EFCC, Mr. Ola Olukoyede, Director-General of NEMA, Ahmed Habib, Director-General of the BPP, Mr. Mamman Ahmadu, and representatives from the Dangote Group, BUA Group, and Shelter Afrique.