Federal Government Denies Nationwide Ban on Open Grazing, Says Shift to Ranching Will Be Gradual
Federal Government Denies Nationwide Ban on Open Grazing, Says Shift to Ranching Will Be Gradual
The Federal Government has dismissed reports claiming that open grazing has been banned across the country, clarifying that no such nationwide directive has been issued.
Speaking on Tuesday, November 25, 2025, Minister of Livestock Development Idi Mukhtar Maiha said the government is focused on a phased transition from open grazing to modern ranching systems rather than enforcing an abrupt ban.
He explained that Nigeria currently has 273 legally recognised grazing reserves covering more than 4.5 million hectares. The Federal Government is working closely with state governments to rehabilitate and upgrade these reserves so they can serve as functional and attractive hubs for pastoralists and other livestock operators.
Maiha stressed that the objective is to build a modern livestock industry that reduces farmer herder conflicts, improves productivity, and provides sustainable business environments for pastoral communities.
“Pastoralists, like every other economic group, need a proper operating environment. The gazetted grazing reserves already serve as legally designated locations for livestock activities. Our responsibility is to modernise them and ensure they are used efficiently,” he said.
The Ministry urged the public to disregard misleading reports and rely on official communication channels for accurate updates on livestock development policies
