FG Bans Open Grazing Nationwide, Declares It a Capital Offence
The Federal Government has officially banned open grazing across Nigeria, marking a major shift in its efforts to end the long-running clashes between farmers and herders.
The announcement was made on Tuesday by the Minister of Livestock Development, Alhaji Mukhtar Maiha, during the inauguration of the first-ever National Council on Livestock Development in Yola, Adamawa State.
Maiha said open grazing has fueled years of deadly conflict, resulting in massive human and economic losses, displaced families, and destruction of farmlands and livestock.
According to him:
“Nigerians have suffered untold hardships from open grazing, including the killing of innocent farmers and herders. There is an urgent need to stop this problem.”
The minister revealed that open grazing is now classified as a capital offence, urging herders nationwide to switch completely to ranching. He added that ranching not only prevents conflict but also improves cattle quality and boosts productivity.
Maiha also highlighted the economic potential of the livestock sector, saying the government aims to make it Nigeria’s second-largest revenue source after oil, with an estimated $74 billion projected within the next five years. Over $14 billion has already been generated under ongoing programmes.
Declaring the council open, Adamawa Deputy Governor, Prof. Kaleptawa Farauta, said the state remains one of the country’s strongest livestock hubs, making it a natural choice for hosting the event.
The newly established National Council on Livestock Development brings together livestock directors from all 36 states and the FCT. The body is tasked with driving policy reforms, ensuring effective implementation, and steering Nigeria’s livestock sector into full modernization.
