The Federal Government has dismissed claims that it has imposed a nationwide ban on open grazing, explaining that the country is only moving through a phased transition toward modern ranching
In a statement issued on Tuesday by Oghenekevwe Uchechukwu, Head of Press and Public Relations at the Federal Ministry of Livestock Development, the Ministry noted that the Minister, Alhaji Idi Maiha, has not announced any policy outlawing open grazing.
According to the statement, the government is implementing a structured, long-term shift from open grazing to ranching. Uchechukwu noted that Nigeria currently has 273 gazetted grazing reserves, covering more than 4.5 million hectares.
The Federal Government is working with state governments to upgrade and equip these reserves so they can fully support pastoralists and other livestock operators.
The statement added that the transition plan is designed to provide workable alternatives that enhance productivity, minimise conflicts, and support a sustainable livestock system—rather than abruptly abolish open grazing.
The Minister stressed that pastoralists, like all economic groups, need an organised business environment. He explained that the gazetted grazing reserves serve as legal business locations for livestock activities, and the government’s duty is to modernise them for proper use.
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Hmm isn’t it a good thing
Toor
Nigeria is a movie theater 🎥🍿. Should the ban of open grazing negotiable? Considering the level of conflicts and insecurity associated with open grazing?