Olushola Omogbehin
Following recent reports of government ban on open grazing nationwide, the Federal Government has said that there was no such directive.
This was disclosed in a statement by the Head of Press and Public Relations at the Federal Ministry of Livestock Development, Oghenekevwe Uchechukwu.
According to the ministry, government is implementing a process of transiting from open grazing to modern ranching.
The Minister of Livestock Development, Idi Maiha explained that Nigeria has 273 gazetted grazing reserves of more than 4.5 million hectares, which are being revitalised in collaboration with state governments.
“The transition plan does not abolish open grazing overnight but provides viable alternatives that support productivity, reduce conflicts, and promote a sustainable livestock ecosystem.”
Government is concentrating on creating a friendly environment for pastoralists through modernised facilities and improved livestock management structures.
“The grazing reserves provided by law are meant to serve as business premises for all livestock activities. Our responsibility is to upgrade these reserves and facilitate their proper utilisation,” the minister stated.
