FG denies nationwide open grazing ban

…Says Transition to Ranching Is Gradual

The Federal Government has debunked reports alleging the introduction of a nationwide ban on open grazing, stressing that the country is instead undergoing a phased shift toward fully modernised ranching.

In a statement on Tuesday, Oghenekevwe Uchechukwu, Head of Press and Public Relations at the Federal Ministry of Livestock Development, clarified that the Minister, Alhaji Idi Maiha, has made no declaration prohibiting open grazing.

“The government is not enforcing an immediate ban. What we are pursuing is a gradual and well-planned transition from open grazing to modern ranching practices,” the statement noted.

The Ministry explained that Nigeria has 273 officially gazetted grazing reserves spanning over 4.5 million hectares, and the Federal Government is collaborating with states to rehabilitate and upgrade these reserves for pastoralists and other livestock stakeholders.

“This transition framework is designed to introduce practical alternatives, enhance productivity, curb conflicts, and build a more sustainable livestock sector—rather than abruptly ending open grazing,” the Ministry added.