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Clarification on Open Grazing Policies in Nigeria
During a meeting held on July 5 in Lagos State, the 17 governors from the region reaffirmed a deadline related to the regulation of open grazing. This meeting followed an earlier decision made on May 12 in Asaba, the capital of Delta State, where a comprehensive ban on open grazing was initially declared.
Federal Government’s Position on Open Grazing
Contrary to circulating media reports, the Federal Government has officially denied imposing a nationwide ban on open grazing. A statement issued by the Ministry of Livestock Development, signed by Oghenekevwe Uchechukwu, Head of Press & Public Relations, clarified the government’s stance on November 25, 2025.
Minister Idi Mukhtar Maiha emphasized that no such sweeping prohibition has been enacted. Instead, the government is pursuing a gradual and well-planned shift from traditional open grazing practices toward modern ranching systems designed to improve efficiency and sustainability.
Revitalizing Grazing Reserves for Sustainable Livestock Management
Nigeria currently boasts 273 officially designated grazing reserves spanning over 4.5 million hectares. The Federal Government is collaborating with state authorities to rehabilitate and equip these reserves, ensuring they become viable operational hubs for pastoralists and livestock farmers alike.
Maiha highlighted that this transition strategy does not abruptly end open grazing but introduces sustainable alternatives aimed at boosting productivity, minimizing conflicts between farmers and herders, and fostering a contemporary livestock industry.
Structured Support for Pastoralists and Livestock Operators
“Pastoralists, like other economic sectors, need a regulated business environment,” Maiha stated. “The grazing reserves, as mandated by law, are intended to serve as designated business zones for all livestock-related activities. Our role is to upgrade these areas and ensure their effective utilization.”
The Ministry also urged the public to disregard inaccurate media narratives and to seek information exclusively from official government sources regarding livestock policies.
Additional Insight: National Livestock Council Initiative
In a related development, the Federal Government recently launched the National Livestock Council, aiming to unlock the sector’s potential valued at $74 billion. This initiative is expected to further support the modernization and growth of Nigeria’s livestock industry.
