The Federal Government has clarified reports suggesting a nationwide ban on open grazing, stressing that no such policy has been implemented. In a statement issued on Tuesday, the Federal Ministry of Livestock Development, through its Head of Press and Public Relations, Oghenekevwe Uchechukwu, confirmed that the Minister of Livestock Development, Alhaji Idi Maiha, has not announced any outright ban.
According to the Ministry, the government is instead embarking on a gradual and structured transition from traditional open grazing practices to modern ranching systems. This initiative aims to provide a sustainable framework for livestock management while ensuring that pastoralists and livestock operators have viable alternatives to traditional grazing methods.
Nigeria currently boasts 273 gazetted grazing reserves, spanning over 4.5 million hectares. The Federal Government is working closely with state governments to revitalize and equip these reserves, creating environments that are more conducive to productive livestock activities.
“The transition plan does not abolish open grazing overnight but provides viable alternatives that support productivity, reduce conflicts, and promote a sustainable livestock ecosystem,” the statement emphasized.
The Minister highlighted the importance of structured business environments for pastoralists, noting that grazing reserves are intended to serve as legal business premises for livestock operations. By upgrading and properly facilitating these reserves, the government seeks to enhance livestock productivity while minimizing clashes between herders and farming communities.
The Ministry has urged the public to disregard misleading media reports and to rely on official government communication channels for accurate updates regarding livestock development policies.