November 25, 2025
The Federal Government on Tuesday announced the ban of open grazing by cattle rearers as one of the solutions to the persistent farmers and herders conflicts across the country.
The Minister of Livestock Development, Alhaji Mukhtar Maiha, declared the ban during the inauguration of the 1st National Council on Livestock Development in Yola, Adamawa State.
Maiha, lamented that frequent farmers and herders clashes have resulted in loss of lives, destruction of property, displacement of thousands of Nigerians and a threat to farm produce.
“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,” Maiha said.
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He emphasized that open grazing is now considered a capital offense, urging cattle rearers to embrace ranching as a safer and more profitable method.
“Ranching will not only prevent conflicts but also improve the quality and weight of cattle for better business,” the minister added.
Highlighting the economic potential of the sector, Maiha said the ministry is positioning livestock development as the country’s second-largest revenue earner after oil and gas.
“We project the ministry to generate $74 billion in the next five years. So far, over $14 billion has been realized through the ongoing livestock initiatives,” he stated.
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Describing Adamawa State as a hub for livestock production, the state Deputy Governor, Professor Kaleptawa Farauta, who declared the council open, stated that hosting the first National Council on Livestock Development in Adamawa was appropriate.
The inaugurated National Council on Livestock Development which comprises of all directors of livestock from the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory, FCT, is tasked with overseeing the implementation of Livestock Development policies across Nigeria.
