26
Nov
Nov
FEDERAL GOVERNMENT BANS OPEN GRAZING, DECLARES IT A CAPITAL OFFENSE
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CapitalTimesNews / 1 week
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- 2 min read
The Federal Government has officially banned open grazing by cattle rearers in a decisive move to address the persistent farmers-herders conflicts plaguing the nation. The announcement was made on Tuesday by the Minister of Livestock Development, Alhaji Mukhtar Maiha, during the inauguration of the 1st National Council on Livestock Development in Yola, Adamawa State. Minister Maiha expressed deep concern over the devastating impact of the clashes, which have led to significant loss of lives, destruction of property, and the displacement of thousands of Nigerians. “Nigerians have been subjected to untold hardships, including the killing of innocent farmers and herders, as a result of open grazing. There is an urgent need to put a stop to this problem,” Maiha stated. He emphasized that open grazing is now considered a capital offense and urged cattle rearers to adopt ranching as a safer and more profitable alternative. “Ranching will not only prevent conflicts but also improve the quality and weight of cattle for better business,” the minister added. Highlighting the economic significance of the livestock sector, Maiha revealed that the ministry is positioning it to become Nigeria’s second-largest revenue earner after oil and gas. “We project the ministry to generate $74 billion in the next five years. So far, over $14 billion has been realized through the ongoing livestock initiatives,” he stated. Adamawa State Deputy Governor, Professor Kaleptawa Farauta, who declared the council open, described the state as a hub for livestock production and noted the appropriateness of hosting the inaugural event in Adamawa. The newly inaugurated National Council on Livestock Development comprises all directors of livestock from the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory and is tasked with overseeing the implementation of policies aimed at modernizing and expanding Nigeria’s livestock sector.