The Federal Government has officially banned open grazing across Nigeria, marking a decisive step to address persistent conflicts between farmers and herders.
The announcement was made on Tuesday by Minister of Livestock Development, Alhaji Mukhtar Maiha, during the inauguration of the maiden National Council on Livestock Development in Yola, Adamawa State.
Maiha highlighted the heavy human and economic toll of the long-running conflicts, noting that countless families have been displaced and farmlands and livestock destroyed.
“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 emphasized that open grazing is now classified as a capital offense, urging herders to transition fully to ranching. Structured ranching, he explained, ensures safety, improves productivity, and enhances the quality and weight of cattle for better business.
Maiha also spoke on the economic potential of livestock development, projecting it to become Nigeria’s second-biggest revenue source after oil. The ministry anticipates about $74 billion in revenue within five years, with over $14 billion already generated through ongoing livestock programs.
Adamawa State Deputy Governor, Professor Kaleptawa Farauta, noted that the state’s strong livestock industry made it a fitting location for the launch of the council.
The newly established National Council on Livestock Development brings together directors of livestock from the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT). The council is tasked with driving sector reforms, monitoring policy implementation, and modernizing Nigeria’s livestock industry.