Senator Ned Nwoko has proposed the creation 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, revealed in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria in Abuja on Monday that the initiative is part of a bill currently before the Senate.
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,” the legislation 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 ensures 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 stressed that the legislation would help resolve conflicts between farmers and herders, ensure environmental and socio-economic compliance, and encourage 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 bill also protects the rights of individuals, communities, and stakeholders in land allocation for ranching, while addressing livestock welfare, disease control, and dispute resolution. It encourages private sector participation through financial incentives and partnerships
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