The Federal Government has clarified that it has not imposed a nationwide ban on open grazing, affirming that the country is gradually transitioning toward modern ranching systems.
In a statement signed on Tuesday by Oghenekevwe Uchechukwu, Head of Press and Public Relations of the Federal Ministry of Livestock Development, the Ministry noted that Minister of Livestock Development, Alhaji Idi Maiha, confirmed no such policy has been introduced.
The statement read, “Instead, the government is implementing a gradual, structured transition from open grazing to modern ranching systems.”
Uchechukwu further stated that the Minister highlighted Nigeria’s 273 gazetted grazing reserves, which cover over 4.5 million hectares. The Federal Government is working alongside state governments to revitalise and equip these reserves, making them suitable for pastoralists and livestock operators.
“The transition plan does not abolish open grazing overnight but provides viable alternatives that support productivity, reduce conflicts, and promote a sustainable livestock ecosystem,” the statement said.
The Minister stressed that pastoralists, like other economic actors, require a structured business environment.
“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,” he added.
The Ministry urged the public to disregard misleading reports and rely on official government communication channels for accurate information on livestock policies.
Previously, the government launched the National Livestock Transformation Plan to modernise livestock production and encourage ranching over open grazing. The initiative aimed to reduce farmer–herder conflicts, increase productivity, and align livestock farming with national economic objectives.
As part of this plan, RUGA (rural grazing areas) settlements were proposed to provide permanent housing for herders and their cattle in designated areas. However, the policy was met with resistance from many states, particularly in the South, citing concerns over land rights and security.
In recent months, the newly re-established Ministry of Livestock Development has reiterated that while open grazing will eventually be phased out in favor of ranching, the transition will be gradual rather than an immediate nationwide ban.
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