THE RENEWED CASE FOR CATTLE RANCHING
The plan to set up modern ranching settlements is overdue In a renewed push to end recurring farmer-herder clashes and transform the livestock sector in the country, the federal government has
The Nigerian government is reiterating its commitment to transitioning from nomadic livestock production to modern ranching as a means to resolve recurring farmer-herder conflicts and revitalize the country's livestock sector. The plan involves rehabilitating 417 grazing reserves and establishing modern ranching settlements in six conflict-prone areas, including Benue, Plateau, Nasarawa, Kaduna, Adamawa, and the Federal Capital Territory.
The Minister of Livestock Development, Idi Maiha, highlighted these regions as priority areas for the initiative. A pilot scheme in Plateau State is already underway to test a livestock production model aimed at reducing cattle movement. To garner support, the government has sought the assistance of the Grand Patron of Miyetti Allah, Sultan of Sokoto, Muhammadu Sa'ad Abubakar, and engaged pastoral communities in the transition from nomadic to ranching practices.
Nomadic livestock production is becoming increasingly unsustainable due to the depletion of grazing routes caused by agriculture, urbanization, and infrastructure development. The ministry envisions ranching settlements that transform reserves into economic communities with housing, veterinary clinics, schools, healthcare facilities, solar power, and earth dams for pasture irrigation.
While several southern states and two northern states have banned open grazing to prevent violence, a comprehensive plan involving all stakeholders is necessary to phase out nomadic practices. Former President Muhammadu Buhari's controversial pledge to revive grazing routes in 2021 sparked controversy due to the associated criminality and insecurity.
Modern ranching has replaced nomadic herding in most parts of the world, providing a more efficient and mechanized approach to beef production. The government should create a platform for a broad discussion on the future of animal husbandry, offering incentives such as soft loans, access to land, training, and inputs to facilitate the transition.
This approach could improve herd health, provide decent incomes and living conditions for handlers, and create new employment opportunities through ancillary industries.
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