The Federal Government of Nigeria has finally announced a nationwide prohibition on open grazing practices for cattle and other livestock.
This policy shift, described by officials as a structured transition toward modern ranching systems, seeks to mitigate the violent clashes between farmers and herders that have plagued rural communities for decades.
The declaration coincides with the inaugural session of the newly established National Council on Livestock Development (NCLD), underscoring the administration's commitment to transforming the sector into a pillar of economic growth.
The policy was unveiled during a high-profile gathering at the Government House Banquet Hall in Yola, the capital of Adamawa State, which is renowned as a major hub for livestock production in northern Nigeria.
Addressing the assembly, Minister of Livestock Development, Alhaji Mukhtar Maiha (also referred to as Mallam Idi Mukhtar Maiha in some reports), emphasized that open grazing has long been a catalyst for "unnecessary hiccups" in national development. "Nigerians have been subjected to untold hardships, including the killing of innocent farmers and herders, as a result of open grazing," Maiha stated, highlighting the human cost of these disputes.
This initiative builds on President Bola Tinubu's broader "Renewed Hope Agenda," which prioritizes innovation in agriculture and rural security. Contrary to some initial media interpretations suggesting an immediate outright ban, the Ministry of Livestock Development clarified that the measure involves a phased implementation.
Open grazing is now deemed unsustainable and illegal in non-designated areas, with the government committing to rehabilitate 417 gazetted grazing reserves—spanning over 4.5 million hectares nationwide to serve as modern business premises for pastoralists.
These reserves, established under previous laws, will be upgraded with infrastructure for ranching, fodder production, and value-chain integration, in partnership with state governments and private investors.
The minister underscored the urgency of this reform, noting that the Federal Government stands ready to support compliant stakeholders. "Our responsibility is to upgrade these reserves and facilitate their proper utilization," Maiha added, urging herders to transition voluntarily to avoid disruptions.