FG Implements Ban on Open Grazing to Promote Livestock Development

The Federal Government has prohibited open grazing by cattle herders to address the ongoing conflicts between farmers and herders throughout the nation. This announcement was made on Tuesday by the Minister of Livestock Development, Alhaji Mukhtar Maiha, during the launch of the 1st National Council on Livestock Development in Yola, Adamawa State. The minister expressed concern that the continuous clashes between farmers and herders have led to loss of lives, damage to property, and the displacement of many Nigerians. "Nigerians have faced severe hardships, including the deaths of innocent farmers and herders due to open grazing. It is crucial to put an end to this issue," Maiha stated. He pointed out that open grazing is now regarded as a serious crime, encouraging cattle herders to adopt ranching as a safer and more lucrative alternative.

"Ranching will not only help avoid conflicts but also enhance the quality and weight of cattle for better business," the minister remarked. Emphasizing the economic potential of the livestock sector, Maiha mentioned that the ministry aims to make livestock development the second-largest source of revenue for the country after oil and gas. "We expect the ministry to generate $74 billion in the next five years. To date, over $14 billion has been earned through current livestock initiatives," he noted. Adamawa State's Deputy Governor, Professor Kaleptawa Farauta, who opened the council, referred to the state as a center for livestock production, stating that it was fitting to host the first National Council on Livestock Development in Adamawa. The newly formed National Council on Livestock Development includes all livestock directors from the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) and is responsible for overseeing the implementation of policies aimed at modernizing and expanding Nigeria's livestock industry.