The Nigerian Federal Government has clarified that it has not imposed a nationwide ban on open grazing, confirming a gradual, structured transition to modern ranching systems supported by existing reserves and state collaboration.
The Federal Government has denied implementing a nationwide ban on open grazing, explaining that the country is instead undergoing a gradual shift to modern ranching. In a statement signed by the Ministry of Livestock Development’s spokesperson, Oghenekevwe Uchechukwu, Minister Idi Maiha affirmed that “the government is implementing a gradual, structured transition from open grazing to modern ranching systems.”
He noted that Nigeria has 273 gazetted grazing reserves spanning over 4.5 million hectares, which the government is working with states to revitalise for pastoralist use. According to the Minister, “the grazing reserves provided by law are meant to serve as business premises for all livestock activities,” adding that the aim is to create viable alternatives that reduce conflict and support productivity.
The Ministry urged the public to ignore misleading reports and rely on official sources, reiterating that while policies like the National Livestock Transformation Plan promote ranching, open grazing will be phased out gradually rather than abolished immediately.