The Federal Government has formally banned open grazing across Nigeria as part of a major push to end the violent clashes between farmers and herders.
The decision was announced in Yola, Adamawa State, by the Minister of Livestock Development, Alhaji Mukhtar Maiha, during the inauguration of the first National Council on Livestock Development.
Maiha said the decades-long conflict has caused immense human and economic damage, leaving communities shattered, families displaced, and farmlands and livestock destroyed. He noted that Nigerians have suffered “untold hardship” from killings linked to open grazing, making it imperative to end the practice.
He explained that open grazing has now been classified as a capital offense, urging herders to fully embrace ranching, which he described as safer, more productive, and better for business. According to him, structured ranching systems will increase cattle quality, boost output and significantly reduce conflicts.
Maiha also highlighted the sector’s economic potential, stating that the ministry aims to make livestock development Nigeria’s second-highest revenue source after oil. He said the government projects up to $74 billion in revenue within five years, with more than $14 billion already generated from existing livestock programmes.
Declaring the council open, Adamawa Deputy Governor, Professor Kaleptawa Farauta, said the state remains a major livestock hub, making it a suitable host for the event.
The newly established National Council on Livestock Development brings together livestock directors from the 36 states and the FCT. The council is expected to spearhead reforms, monitor policy implementation and drive the modernization of Nigeria’s livestock industry.
