The Kano State Government has called for increased investment in education, economic opportunities and peaceful coexistence to improve the livelihoods of Fulbe communities in Nigeria and beyond.
The Deputy Governor, Alhaji Murtala Sule Garo, made the call while representing Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf at the Tabital Pulaaku International Assembly held at Bristol Palace Hotel, Kano.
Speaking on the theme, “Towards Growing the Economy, Livelihoods and Education for Fulbe Communities,” Garo said the gathering was timely, given the challenges facing communities whose livelihoods were closely linked to livestock production, agriculture and trade.
He called for improved access to finance, livestock services, water, grazing facilities, markets and skills development, with greater opportunities for women and young people.
“There is therefore a need to enhance these livelihoods by providing access to finance, improving livestock development, creating opportunities for women and youth, and supporting skills development,” he said.
Garo also stressed the importance of quality education for children, particularly those in rural and herder communities, urging stakeholders to integrate conventional, religious, vocational and digital learning to prepare young people for the modern economy.
He called for dialogue and understanding among farmers, herders and other communities, expressing the state government’s readiness to work with Tabital Pulaaku International, traditional institutions and other stakeholders to develop practical solutions to challenges affecting the communities.
Earlier, the Emir of Kano, Khalifa Muhammadu Sanusi II, expressed appreciation to the Kano State Government for its support for the gathering and for accommodating participants.
Sanusi also called for clarity in the roles of the organisation’s international and national structures, explaining that while the international body provided strategic direction and coordination, national chapters should take responsibility for matters within their respective countries.