The Federal Government has officially prohibited open grazing nationwide as part of a renewed effort to end the long-running clashes between farmers and herders.
The decision was announced on Tuesday by the Minister of Livestock Development, Alhaji Mukhtar Maiha, during the inauguration of the 1st National Council on Livestock Development in Yola, Adamawa State.
Maiha expressed concern over the devastation caused by open grazing, noting that the recurring conflicts have resulted in widespread killings, destruction of property, and mass displacement of communities.
“Open grazing has subjected Nigerians, farmers and herders alike, to unimaginable suffering. Innocent lives are being lost. It is time to bring this to an end,” he said.
The minister declared that open grazing would henceforth be treated as a capital offense, urging cattle rearers to adopt ranching as a safer, more productive, and economically viable system.
According to him, ranching improves cattle health, enhances meat quality, and significantly reduces conflict.
Maiha also highlighted the economic prospects of the livestock industry, revealing that the ministry aims to position livestock development as Nigeria’s second-highest revenue earner after oil and gas.
“We are projecting about $74 billion in revenue over the next five years. Already, more than $14 billion has been generated from ongoing initiatives,” he noted.
Declaring the council open, Adamawa State Deputy Governor, Professor Kaleptawa Farauta, described the state as a major livestock hub and an ideal host for the inaugural council meeting.
The newly formed National Council on Livestock Development includes directors of livestock from all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory.
Its mandate is to oversee policy implementation and drive the modernization of Nigeria’s livestock sector.
