Open Grazing: Livestock Ministry Clarifies Policy Amid Widespread Misreporting

The Federal Government on Tuesday debunked claims that open grazing has been banned across the country, insisting that no such directive has been issued.

In a statement signed by the Head of Press and Public Relations, Oghenekevwe Uchechukwu, the Federal Ministry of Livestock Development said the Minister, Alhaji Idi Maiha, has not announced any nationwide prohibition.

According to the ministry, the government is instead implementing a gradual, structured transition from open grazing to modern ranching systems.

“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.

Uchechukwu noted that Nigeria currently has 273 gazetted grazing reserves covering more than 4.5 million hectares. The Federal Government, he said, is working with states to revitalise and equip these reserves, making them suitable for pastoralists and livestock investors.

The Minister stressed the need for a structured operating environment for pastoralists.

“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 said.

The ministry urged Nigerians to disregard misleading media reports and rely on official government communication channels for accurate updates on livestock development policies.

More details on the government’s ranching transition plan are expected in the coming weeks.