By: Babagana Bukar Wakil, Maiduguri
The Federal Government has dismissed reports suggesting that open grazing has been banned across the country, stating that no such directive has been issued.
In a statement signed by the Head of Press and Public Relations, Oghenekevwe Uchechukwu, the Minister of Livestock Development, Idi Mukhtar Maiha, clarified that the government is instead implementing a phased and well-structured transition from open grazing to modern ranching systems.
The Minister explained that Nigeria currently has 273 gazetted grazing reserves covering more than 4.5 million hectares. He said the Federal Government is collaborating with state governments to revitalise and equip these reserves, making them functional and conducive for pastoralists and other livestock operators.
Mukhtar emphasised that the transition plan does not impose an immediate ban on open grazing but seeks to provide viable alternatives that enhance productivity, minimise conflicts, and promote a sustainable livestock sector.
According to him, pastoralists require a structured business environment like other economic groups, and the legally established grazing reserves are intended to serve as business premises for livestock activities. He added that government efforts are focused on upgrading these reserves and facilitating their proper use.
The statement urged the public to disregard misleading reports and rely on official government channels for accurate information regarding livestock development policies.
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