The Federal Government says it has not banned open grazing nationwide, explaining that Nigeria is only undergoing a gradual transition toward modern ranching systems.
According to a report from PUNCH, the Federal Government has dismissed claims that it has imposed a nationwide ban on open grazing, stating that the country is instead implementing a gradual transition to modern ranching.
A statement signed by Oghenekevwe Uchechukwu of the Ministry of Livestock Development said the minister, Alhaji Idi Maiha, confirmed that no such policy exists, noting that Nigeria currently has 273 gazetted grazing reserves covering over 4.5 million hectares. He explained that the government is collaborating with states to revitalise these reserves and provide alternatives that enhance productivity, reduce conflict, and create a sustainable livestock system. The Ministry urged Nigerians to disregard misleading reports and rely on official channels for accurate updates, adding that the transition from open grazing will not be abrupt but structured.