The Federal Government has officially outlawed open grazing nationwide as part of a broader strategy to end the recurring clashes between farmers and herders.
The decision was revealed on Tuesday by the Minister of
Livestock Development, Alhaji Mukhtar Maiha, at the inauguration of the maiden
National Council on Livestock Development held in Yola, Adamawa State.
Maiha noted that the long-running conflict 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.
According to him, “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
said.
The minister further explained that the practice of open
grazing has now been classified as a capital offense, urging herders to
transition fully to ranching. He 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.
Declaring the council open, Adamawa State Deputy Governor,
Professor Kaleptawa Farauta, said Adamawa 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 (FCT).
The council is expected to drive reforms, monitor policy
execution, and strengthen the modernization of Nigeria’s livestock industry.
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