. Policy aimed at ending farmers-herders’ clashes
…urges herders to embrace ranching
Federal Government, on Tuesday, officially outlawed open grazing nationwide as part of a broader strategy to end the recurring clashes between farmers and herders.
Government also declared open grazing a capital offence, henceforth.
Minister of Livestock Development, Alhaji Mukhtar Maiha, announced these decisions at the inauguration of the maiden National Council on Livestock Development held in Yola, Adamawa State.
According to Maiha, the long-running conflict caused by open grazing has inflicted heavy human and economic losses, leaving many communities devastated.
He stressed that the violence has displaced countless families and destroyed farmlands and livestock.
The Minister said, “Nigerians have been subjected to untold hardships, including the killing of innocent farmers and herders, as a result of open grazing. There is an urgent need to put a stop to this problem.”
He further explained that the practice of open grazing has now been classified as a capital offence, urging herders to transition fully to ranching.
Maha maintained that structured ranching systems offer better safety and higher productivity.
“Ranching will not only prevent conflicts but also improve the quality and weight of cattle for better business,” he added.
Maiha also pointed to the sector’s economic prospects, saying the ministry aims to make livestock development Nigeria’s second-biggest revenue source after oil.
He disclosed that the government projects about $74 billion in revenue within five years, with over $14 billion already generated through current livestock programmes.
Adamawa State Deputy Governor, Prof Kaleptawa Farauta, who declared the council open, said the state remains one of the country’s strongest livestock zones, making it a fitting location for the event.
The newly formed National Council on Livestock Development brings together directors of livestock from the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory.
The council is expected to drive reforms, monitor policy execution, and strengthen the modernisation of Nigeria’s livestock industry.
