Daud Olatunji
The Presidential Committee on Livestock Sector Reforms Implementation has proposed a pathway for the coexistence of both open grazing and ranching in Nigeria.
Th committee declared that a gradual transition is key to addressing the ongoing farmer-herder clashes.
The committee, chaired by former Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) Chairman, Professor Attahiru Jega, presented its inception report to President Bola Tinubu at the State House, Abuja, on Thursday.
Speaking to journalists after the submission, Jega revealed that the report, which spans 152 pages, provides a comprehensive strategy for the Nigerian government to judiciously harness the livestock industry, aiming to mitigate tensions between farmers and herders.
One of the committee’s central recommendations is the allowance for the simultaneous existence of open grazing and ranching, at least in the short term, until adequate infrastructure is put in place to support the transition to full ranching.
“It would be counterproductive to abruptly stop open grazing, given its deep-rooted tradition in pastoralism,” Jega stated.
He explained that the committee’s position is for a phased approach, allowing the government to gradually shift towards ranching while ensuring there is widespread awareness and investment in infrastructure to support the practice.
The report, which is expected to shape the future of Nigeria’s livestock management, includes a ten-year development plan aimed at revamping the livestock sector in a way that benefits both herders and farmers.
The committee also recommended the adoption of modern technologies to enhance livestock production across the country.
Notably, the document contains detailed guidance on the operations of the newly established Federal Ministry of Livestock, a department recently created by President Tinubu to spearhead reforms in the sector.
According to Jega, the report outlines steps for the ministry to ensure smooth implementation of livestock policies and strategies.
The committee’s report will be made public soon, with the expectation of receiving further input from stakeholders and the general public.
This move is part of the government’s inclusive approach to policy formulation, seeking diverse perspectives before finalizing the reform strategies.
President Tinubu had inaugurated the committee in July 2024 as part of his administration’s efforts to remove barriers to agricultural productivity and enhance opportunities for all players in the livestock value chain, including farmers, herders, processors, and distributors.
The committee’s work is seen as crucial in addressing long-standing issues of insecurity and economic challenges linked to the herder-farmer conflicts, which have destabilized parts of Nigeria over the years.
By advocating both ranching and open grazing to coexist temporarily, Jega’s committee aims to provide a balanced and pragmatic solution to one of Nigeria’s most contentious rural development issues.
The expectation is that, with time, ranching will become the dominant practice, leading to more sustainable livestock farming and a reduction in violent conflicts between farmers and herders.
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