By Enemona Samuel Endurance
The Federal Government has officially outlawed open grazing across Nigeria. This decisive action forms part of a comprehensive strategy to end recurring clashes between farmers and herders. The Minister of Livestock Development Alhaji Mukhtar Maiha announced this landmark decision in Yola Adamawa State.
Maiha revealed the ban during the inauguration of the inaugural National Council on Livestock Development. He emphasized the devastating human and economic toll of the long-running conflicts. The minister noted that countless families have been displaced with farmlands and livestock destroyed.
Nigerians have endured untold hardships due to open grazing. Innocent farmers and herders have lost their lives in preventable violence. The minister declared an urgent need to stop this destructive practice. Open grazing has now been classified as a capital offense nationwide.
The government is urging herders to transition completely to ranching systems. Structured ranching offers superior safety and productivity benefits. Maiha explained that ranching prevents conflicts while improving cattle quality and weight. This translates to better business outcomes for livestock owners.
The ministry has ambitious economic plans for the livestock sector. Officials aim to make livestock development Nigeria’s second-largest revenue source after oil. Current projections indicate potential revenue of seventy-four billion dollars within five years. Existing livestock programs have already generated over fourteen billion dollars.
Adamawa State Deputy Governor Professor Kaleptawa Farauta welcomed the council meeting. He noted Adamawa’s significance as one of Nigeria’s strongest livestock zones. The state provides a fitting backdrop for these critical discussions about the industry’s future.
The newly established National Council on Livestock Development includes directors from all thirty-six states and the Federal Capital Territory. This body will drive essential reforms and monitor policy implementation. The council will strengthen modernization efforts across Nigeria’s livestock industry.
This ban represents a pivotal moment for Nigeria News Today and national security. The Bureau News continues to track developments that affect community safety across the nation. This policy shift could influence voter perspectives as the next election cycle approaches.