The Federal Government says it has not banned open grazing in Nigeria, but is gradually moving the country toward modern ranching systems.
Minister of Livestock Development Alhaji Idi Maiha made the clarification on Tuesday through ministry spokesperson Oghenekevwe Uchechukwu, stating that no official ban has been issued.
The government is instead taking a phased approach to help herders transition from open grazing to ranching, a shift designed to increase livestock productivity, reduce clashes between farmers and herders, and create a more sustainable livestock sector.
Maiha revealed that Nigeria has 273 officially designated grazing reserves covering more than 4.5 million hectares.
The government is working with states to revitalize these reserves and make them functional spaces for pastoralists and livestock businesses.
“The transition plan does not abolish open grazing overnight but provides viable alternatives that support productivity, reduce conflicts, and promote a sustainable livestock ecosystem,” the statement said.
The minister emphasized that pastoralists need the same kind of structured business environment available to other sectors.
The existing grazing reserves, he explained, are meant to serve as official operating zones for livestock activities, and the government’s focus is on upgrading and maximizing their use.
The Ministry urged Nigerians to ignore rumors about a nationwide grazing ban and to get their information from official government sources.
