From Sani Gazas Chinade, Damaturu
The Kulen Allah Cattle Rearers Association of Nigeria has appealed to the governments of Nigeria and Niger Republic to resolve their diplomatic differences and strengthen bilateral relations in the interest of peace and economic stability.
The association’s National President, Khalid Muhammad Bello, made the call in a statement on Sunday, describing the two countries as “twin nations” with deep historical, cultural and economic ties.
Bello noted that Nigeria and Niger share about 1,608 kilometres of border, a reality he said had over the years fostered strong social and economic bonds, with families living across both territories and markets closely interconnected.
He warned that the lingering diplomatic tensions were already taking a toll on cross-border trade and the livestock sector, particularly during peak periods such as Eid-el-Kabir and other major festivities.
According to him, cattle rearers and traders were among the worst affected, as restrictions and uncertainty continued to disrupt the movement of livestock and other goods across the border.
“KACRAN is deeply concerned that these diplomatic challenges are negatively affecting the livelihoods of ordinary citizens, especially those whose survival depends on cross-border economic activities,” Bello said.
The association urged leaders of both countries to place the welfare of their citizens above political disagreements and prioritise dialogue as a means of resolving disputes.
It also called for strengthened joint security cooperation to address shared challenges, stressing that collaboration rather than confrontation remained the most effective path to sustainable peace and development.
Bello added that renewed commitment to diplomacy would not only restore confidence among border communities but also promote peace and prosperity in the wider West African sub-region.
“KACRAN believes that only through dialogue, mutual respect and cooperation can Nigeria and Niger overcome their differences and safeguard the long-standing brotherhood between their peoples,” the statement said.