The Federal Government has officially banned open grazing across Nigeria as part of its plan to stop the recurring clashes between farmers and herders. The announcement was made by the Minister of Livestock Development, Alhaji Mukhtar Maiha, during the first National Council on Livestock Development meeting in Yola, Adamawa State.
The government said the long-running conflicts have led to the loss of many lives, destruction of farms and homes, and the displacement of thousands of people in different parts of the country. The ban is aimed at ending the movement of cattle across farmlands and communities, which has often triggered violence.
The minister explained that cattle rearers are expected to adopt ranching instead of roaming with their animals. Ranching was presented as a safer and more organized system that can reduce tension and improve cattle production. The government believes that this method will help improve the quality, health, and market value of livestock.
The Federal Government also revealed plans to make livestock one of Nigeria’s top income-generating sectors, second only to oil and gas. It was stated that the sector could generate large revenue within the next five years, with billions of dollars already achieved through ongoing livestock projects.
Adamawa State was described as a major livestock hub, which made it a suitable host for the first national council meeting. The new National Council on Livestock Development includes livestock directors from all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory. The council is expected to guide the execution of new policies and help modernize and grow the livestock industry across the country.