Reported by: Agande Richard Aondofa | Edited by: Henry Owen
The Nigerian Federal Government has announced that open grazing is no longer sustainable in the country. Instead, it is urging cattle rearers to adopt ranching, which is considered safer and more profitable.
This announcement was made by the Minister of Livestock Development, Alhaji Mukhtar Maiha, during the inauguration of Nigeria’s first National Council on Livestock Development in Yola, Adamawa State.
Maiha explained that the ban on open grazing aims to reduce the ongoing conflicts between farmers and herders across Nigeria. These clashes have led to loss of lives, destruction of property, and the displacement of thousands of Nigerians.
He lamented that many Nigerians have suffered hardships, including the killing of innocent farmers and herders, due to open grazing. The Minister emphasized that it is urgent to put an end to these conflicts.
Maiha declared that open grazing is now considered a capital offense, and cattle rearers should switch to ranching for their safety and better economic prospects. He added that ranching can also improve the quality and size of cattle, leading to better business outcomes.
The Minister highlighted that livestock development is now seen as Nigeria’s second-largest source of revenue after oil and gas. He projected that the livestock sector could generate up to $74 billion in the next five years, and over $14 billion has already been earned through ongoing livestock initiatives.
During the event, Adamawa State Deputy Governor, Professor Kaleptawa Farauta, stated that the state is a major hub for livestock production in Nigeria. He also noted that hosting the first National Council on Livestock Development in Adamawa is very appropriate.
The newly formed Council includes directors of livestock from all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT). Its main goal is to oversee the implementation of policies aimed at modernizing and expanding Nigeria’s livestock sector.
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