The Federal Government has officially banned open grazing across the country as part of efforts to curb recurring clashes between farmers and herders.
The announcement was made on Tuesday by the Minister of Livestock Development, Alhaji Mukhtar Maiha, during the inauguration of the maiden National Council on Livestock Development in Yola, Adamawa State.
Maiha said the long-running conflict has resulted in significant human and economic losses, leaving many communities devastated. He noted that the violence has displaced countless families while farmlands and livestock have been destroyed in the clashes.
According to him, Nigerians have endured severe hardship due to open grazing, including the killing of innocent farmers and herders. “There is an urgent need to stop this problem,” the minister said.
Maiha further disclosed that open grazing has now been classified as a capital offence. He urged herders to fully embrace ranching, stressing that structured ranch systems offer greater safety, stability, and productivity.
“Ranching will not only prevent conflicts but also improve the quality and weight of cattle for better business,” he added.
Highlighting the economic prospects of the livestock sector, the minister said the government aims to position livestock development as Nigeria’s second-highest revenue earner after oil. He revealed that the ministry projects about $74 billion in revenue within five years, with more than $14 billion already generated through existing livestock programmes.
Declaring the council open, Adamawa State Deputy Governor, Professor Kaleptawa Farauta, said Adamawa remains one of Nigeria’s strongest livestock hubs, making it a strategic venue for the inaugural meeting.
The newly established National Council on Livestock Development comprises directors of livestock from the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory. The council is expected to drive key reforms, oversee policy implementation, and advance the modernization of the country’s livestock industry.
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