Nigeria: The Pastoralism Paradigm in Nigeria

opinion

I find the opinion that Fulani pastoralists threaten conservation in Nigeria problematic. Because "Fulani herdsmen" are the Nigerian media boogeymen, it feels like another excuse to vilify an ethnic group for clickbait or political points. In order not to get defensive, I checked out the science. Fulani pastoralists live a sustainable life that is any nomad's trademark. It did not make sense that environmental degradation was linked to cattle grazing. So, I talked to experts and attended virtual conferences and my discernment was justified.

Pastoralism is not an outdated way of life. In fact, pastoralists are known as guardians of the environment. They exist on all continents, grazing camels, cattle, yaks, reindeers, goats, sheep, horses, and llamas. Nigeria's nomads are from the Fulani tribe, also classified as transhumance because they are mobile livestock breeders. Their cattle provide organic milk and meat and their services are sought after as cattle experts and private herders.

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