By Our Reporter
The Federal Government has officially banned open grazing, describing it as unsustainable, and is urging cattle rearers to adopt ranching as a safer and more profitable alternative.
The Minister of Livestock Development, Alhaji Mukhtar Maiha, made the announcement on Tuesday during the inauguration of the first National Council on Livestock Development in Yola, Adamawa State. He stated that the move is part of ongoing efforts to reduce persistent farmers-herders conflicts across the country.
Maiha noted that clashes between farmers and herders due to open grazing have resulted in loss of lives, destruction of property, and displacement of thousands of Nigerians. “Nigerians have suffered greatly, including the k+lling of innocent farmers and herders, because of open grazing. Immediate action is necessary,” he said.
He emphasized that open grazing is now treated as a capital offense, and cattle rearers must embrace ranching, which will not only prevent conflicts but also improve cattle quality and business outcomes. Maiha added that the ministry is positioning livestock development as Nigeria’s second-largest revenue source after oil and gas, projecting $74 billion in earnings over the next five years, with over $14 billion already realized through current initiatives.
Adamawa State Deputy Governor, Professor Kaleptawa Farauta, described the state as a livestock production hub and welcomed hosting the first National Council on Livestock Development, highlighting its significance.
The council, made up of directors of livestock from all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory, is tasked with implementing policies to modernize and expand Nigeria’s livestock sector.
