FG Clarifies Position, Says Open Grazing Not Yet Banned Nationwide
The Federal Government has refuted widespread reports suggesting that open grazing has been banned across Nigeria, insisting that no such policy has been declared. The clarification came on Tuesday through a statement issued by the Federal Ministry of Livestock Development.
Government Denies Ban, Says No Policy Has Been Issued
According to the Ministry’s Head of Press and Public Relations, Oghenekevwe Uchechukwu, the Minister of Livestock Development, Alhaji Idi Maiha, has not announced any nationwide prohibition of open grazing.
Akahi News learnt that the Minister instead explained that the government is pursuing a gradual and structured transition from traditional open grazing to modern ranching systems.
This clarification comes amid growing public debate and media reports claiming that open grazing had been abolished by the Federal Government.
Transition to Ranching Will Be Gradual, Not Immediate
The Ministry stressed that the Federal Government is committed to modernising livestock production, but without disrupting the livelihood of pastoralists.
Uchechukwu noted that Nigeria currently has 273 gazetted grazing reserves covering more than 4.5 million hectares, which form the backbone of the transition plan.
Akahi News gathered that these reserves are being revitalised in collaboration with state governments to create well-equipped, functional spaces for herders and livestock operators.
The government believes this approach will boost productivity, reduce pastoral conflicts, and create a safer environment for livestock businesses.
Grazing Reserves to Serve as Business Hubs for Pastoralists
Minister Maiha emphasised that pastoralists deserve a stable and structured business environment like every other economic group.
He explained that gazetted grazing reserves, backed by law, are intended to serve as business premises for livestock activities, and the ministry is working to upgrade and properly utilise these spaces.
Observers noted that this direction aligns with broader efforts to modernise Nigeria’s livestock ecosystem and reduce open-grazing-related clashes frequently reported on Akahi News, such as those involving herders and farming communities.
Government Urges Public to Ignore Misleading Reports
The Federal Ministry of Livestock Development urged Nigerians to dismiss misleading publications and rely solely on official channels for accurate policy information.
For continuous verified updates on national policy developments, readers can always follow Akahi News.
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By Joseph Iyaji | Akahi News
Joseph Iyaji is a journalist, educator, and founder of Akahi G. International, Akahi Tutors, and Akahi News. Read more about him here.
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