Bauchi De-Reserves 4,825 Hectares in Katagum to Ease Farmland Pressure, Curb Conflicts

By Kamaluddeen Nuhu Ilelah:

The Bauchi State Government has approved the de-reservation of 4,825 hectares of forest land in Katagum Local Government Area (LGA), a move aimed at addressing worsening farmland shortages and reducing land-related conflicts across affected communities.

Chairman of the Committee on Farmland Distribution in De-reserved Forests, Comrade Sale Umar Misau, disclosed this during the committee’s assessment visit to Katagum LGA to monitor the allocation process.

He explained that the decision followed persistent complaints from several local government areas over growing population pressure and declining access to arable land.

Katagum LGA was among the councils that requested de-reservation from portions of Dagaro, Dugunde, Chinade, Madara, Gurwari, Yarinange, Kurumdum, Mareyo, Dimadiyal, Kare, Janguye, and Gusaru forest reserves, which together span about 30,000 hectares.

Comrade Umar stressed that the de-reserved land is strictly for agricultural purposes and must not be sold.

He added that while the Ministry of Lands will handle mapping and demarcation of the land, the authority to allocate plots rests solely with the local government council.

Priority, he said, must be given to residents living closest to the affected forest areas, with traditional rulers playing a key role in identifying legitimate beneficiaries.

Earlier, Chairman of Katagum LGA, Yusuf Babayo Zaki, expressed appreciation to the state government for the initiative.

He highlighted the importance of traditional institutions in ensuring a transparent and peaceful allocation process, describing the development as a significant milestone for the area.

He also prayed for the realization of the proposed Katagum State.

In his remarks, the District Head of Azare, Engr. Muhammad Galadima Magaji, reaffirmed the commitment of traditional leaders to supporting government-led development initiatives.

He called for sustained peace and unity among farmers, herders, and other communities in Azare and across the state.

On his part, the chairman of the Joint Farmers Association in Katagum, Sale Muhammad Azare, said the move would bring relief after years of hardship caused by limited farmland and a growing population.

Similarly, Muhammadu Juli Abubakar, Chairman of Miyetti Allah in Katagum, pledged full cooperation from his members, assuring that herders would not engage in any actions that could undermine peaceful coexistence or their livelihoods.

The de-reservation initiative is expected to boost agricultural production, improve livelihoods, and promote harmony among communities in Katagum and beyond.