Nigerian Senator Ned Nwoko has proposed the establishment and management of ranches in all 774 local government areas and the Federal Capital Territory to enhance food security, curb open grazing, and modernize livestock farming
The Delta North lawmaker, who is also Vice Chairman of the Senate Committee on Environment, told the News Agency of Nigeria in Abuja on Monday that the proposal is part of a bill currently before the Senate.
The legislation, titled “A Bill for an Act to Provide for the Establishment, Development, and Management of Ranches in the 774 Local Government Areas and the Federal Capital Territory, to Promote Modern Livestock Farming, Curb Open Grazing, Enhance Food Security, and for Related Matters,” aims to create a legal framework for nationwide ranch development and management.
The bill outlines state-level approvals for land allocation, promotes environmental sustainability in ranch projects, and encourages transparent funding through public-private partnerships. It also proposes the creation of a Ranch Management and Development Agency to oversee compliance, enforce regulations, and implement sustainable ranching practices.
Nwoko highlighted that the legislation would help resolve conflicts between farmers and herders, ensure environmental and socio-economic compliance, and foster cooperation among federal, state, and local governments.
“It will help modernize livestock farming practices through the establishment of dedicated and legally recognized ranches. It will facilitate cooperation between the federal and state governments as well as local government councils in implementing and managing ranching projects, while respecting constitutional provisions and land tenure laws,” he said.
The senator added that the bill protects the rights of individuals, communities, and other stakeholders in land allocation for ranching, while addressing livestock welfare, disease control, and dispute resolution. It also promotes private sector participation through financial incentives and partnerships.
Additionally, the legislation provides for fair compensation and resettlement of communities affected by ranching projects, while integrating ranching activities into local economies to create jobs and drive development.
“The legislation establishes legal mechanisms for licensing, regulation, monitoring, and enforcement of ranching standards. It also facilitates the resolution of disputes arising from ranching operations through statutory processes and legally recognized mechanisms,” Nwoko explained.
As chairman of the Senate Committee on Reparations and Repatriation, Nwoko described the bill as a transformative step toward strengthening national food security and sustainable livestock production across Nigeria.
