The Federal Government on Tuesday dismissed reports claiming it had imposed a nationwide ban on open grazing, insisting that no such directive currently exists.
The clarification was issued in a statement by the Head of Press and Public Relations at the Federal Ministry of Livestock Development, Oghenekevwe Uchechukwu, following media reports suggesting an outright prohibition.
According to the ministry, the Minister of Livestock Development, Idi Maiha, confirmed that the government is instead implementing a gradual and structured transition from open grazing to modern ranching.
Uchechukwu explained that Nigeria has 273 gazetted grazing reserves spanning more than 4.5 million hectares, which are being revitalised in partnership with state governments.
The statement noted, “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 government’s approach, it said, is centred on creating an enabling environment for pastoralists through modernised facilities and improved livestock management structures.
Maiha stressed the need to professionalise livestock operations in line with global best practices.
He stated, “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 added that pastoralists, like all other economic groups, must operate within a structured and sustainable business ecosystem.
The ministry urged Nigerians to disregard misleading publications and rely on verified government channels for accurate information on livestock development policies.
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