Nigeria Bans Open Grazing, Declares It a Capital Offense to Curb Farmers-Herders Conflicts

In a decisive move to end recurring farmers-herders clashes, the Federal Government has officially banned open grazing across the country. The announcement was made on Tuesday by the Minister of Livestock Development, Alhaji Mukhtar Maiha, during the inauguration of the first National Council on Livestock Development in Yola, Adamawa State.

Minister Maiha noted that the violent conflicts have led to significant loss of lives, destruction of property, and the displacement of thousands of Nigerians. “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,” he said.

He warned that open grazing is now considered a capital offense, urging cattle rearers to adopt ranching as a safer and more profitable alternative. “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 livestock, Maiha stated that the sector is being positioned as Nigeria’s second-largest revenue earner after oil and gas, projecting earnings of $74 billion in the next five years. He noted that current livestock initiatives have already generated over $14 billion.

Adamawa State Deputy Governor, Professor Kaleptawa Farauta, who formally opened the council, described the state as a hub for livestock production and welcomed the decision to host the inaugural National Council on Livestock Development.

The council comprises directors of livestock from all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) and will oversee the implementation of policies aimed at modernizing and expanding Nigeria’s livestock sector.