The Chairman of the Presidential Committee on Livestock, Professor Attahiru Jega, has cautioned that an immediate cessation of open grazing in Nigeria would be counterproductive. After meeting with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Jega highlighted that while open grazing is a longstanding practice in pastoralism, a gradual approach is necessary for a complete shift to ranching.
Jega disclosed that the committee presented a 152-page report to the President, which outlines strategies to harness the full potential of Nigeria's livestock industry and alleviate conflicts between farmers and herders. The report suggests that, for the time being, ranching and open grazing can coexist, provided the necessary infrastructure is put in place and public awareness is increased.
The committee has mapped out a ten-year plan designed to help the government achieve substantial progress in livestock management. Jega also emphasized the importance of embracing new technologies in livestock production, a key recommendation in the report.
The committee’s proposals include comprehensive guidelines for the newly established Federal Ministry of Livestock, which was recently announced by President Tinubu. The report is expected to be released to the public soon, seeking additional feedback from stakeholders across the country.
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