‘We’re committed to peace’, Miyetti Allah reacts to US report
The Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN) has reacted to the recent policy update issued by the United States Commission on International Religious Freedom (USCIRF), reaffirming its condemnation of terrorism, banditry and all forms of violent attacks across Nigeria.
In a statement signed by its National President, Baba Othman Ngelzarma, the Miyetti Allah said it welcomed aspects of the US report released on May 8, 2026, particularly the distinction made between criminal groups and millions of law-abiding Fulani citizens across the country.
MACBAN described itself as a lawful pastoralist advocacy organisation committed to peace, national unity and the protection of lives and property.
The association condemned attacks on communities and places of worship, stressing that criminality should not be linked to any ethnic or religious group.
“Attacks on citizens during religious activities or celebrations are condemnable and contrary to the values of humanity and the laws of the country,” the statement said.
MACBAN also stated that criminal groups operating in parts of the country do not represent peaceful Fulani citizens, many of whom, according to the association, have also been victims of cattle rustling, kidnappings, and violent reprisals.
The group pledged continued cooperation with security agencies and traditional institutions to help identify and isolate criminal elements operating within rural communities and forest areas.
According to the statement, the association is encouraging its state and zonal structures to strengthen information-sharing with relevant authorities in support of ongoing security efforts.
MACBAN further cautioned against ethnic profiling and the collective stigmatisation of herders, warning that such actions could deepen division and weaken efforts toward peaceful coexistence.
The association called on political actors, media organisations and local security outfits to avoid narratives capable of promoting ethnic tension, especially as political activities ahead of the 2027 elections begin to gather momentum.
On pastoral development, MACBAN acknowledged the growing challenges associated with climate change, desertification and population growth, noting that these realities have increased pressure on land use and grazing patterns.
The group expressed support for ongoing efforts aimed at modernising livestock production through ranching and other sustainable agricultural initiatives.
It also appealed to government and development partners to provide pastoral communities with training, infrastructure, and financial support to ease the transition to modern livestock management systems.
MACBAN further advocated grassroots dialogue and peaceful conflict resolution mechanisms involving herders, farmers, religious leaders, and traditional rulers.
The association called for justice and accountability for all perpetrators of violence, irrespective of background or affiliation.
According to the statement, lasting peace can only be achieved through fairness, mutual respect, and cooperation among all communities.
MACBAN also reiterated its commitment to promoting interfaith and interethnic dialogue as part of efforts to strengthen national unity and social harmony.
The association urged both local and international stakeholders to support initiatives focused on early warning systems, local peacebuilding and pastoral sector reforms.
It added that peaceful Fulani citizens, like other Nigerians, desire security, freedom of worship, and improved economic opportunities for their families.
