The National Orientation Agency (NOA) has appealed to herdsmen and farmers in the country to sheathe their swords and embrace peace to contribute to the economy as the federal government is doing everything possible to resolve the lingering misunderstanding between them.

The Director General of the NOA, Mike Omeri, stated this while reacting to the extreme positions being suggested by various socio-cultural groups relating to the herdsmen and farmers clashes.

According to Omeri, the Strategic Action Plan committee set up by the federal government would bring lasting solutions to the crisis especially if both parties heed to the move by government.

He also explained that the Committee has a holistic approach which includes both short and long term strategies to end the lingering clashes.

“With such a committee, it is only complementary that farmers, herdsmen and Nigerians irrespective of origin or occupation contribute to this peace production effort.”

While sympathising with victims, Omeri assured all that government was studying the various recommendations of the committee with a view to streamlining it to meet the realities of the time.

“Herdsmen and farmers need each other and Nigeria needs them both. It is therefore a collective responsibility for all of us to advocate peace amongst the two sets of agriculturalists” He specifically called on community leaders and heads of associations to appeal to farmers and herdsmen to embrace peace.

The NOA boss recalled the contributions of farmers and herdsmen to the economy of the country, saying such contribution is needed now more than ever before with the dwindling global oil price.

“Our farmers and herdsmen should cash into this fall in oil price. This is the time to contribute to the country’s foreign exchange earnings and create more jobs locally; this is not time for clashes or hate speeches, it is time for inward looking and growth.”

•Photo shows Mr. Mike Omeri.

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