The chairman of the Presidential Committee on Livestock, Professor Attahiru Jega, has stated that the Committee believes that immediately stopping open grazing, which is a longstanding practice in pastoralism, would be counterproductive.
After meeting with the President, the Chairman of the Committee, Jega, expressed that the committee has successfully outlined strategies for the Nigerian government to effectively harness the potential of the livestock industry in Nigeria.
He disclosed that the 152-page report presented to President Tinubu suggests strategies the government can implement to alleviate the conflicts between farmers and herders throughout the nation.
He noted that, for the time being, ranching and open grazing can coexist, provided there is increased awareness and the essential infrastructure is developed to facilitate a complete shift to full ranching practices.
The committee has outlined a decade-long strategy aimed at assisting the government in achieving significant advancements across all facets of livestock management in Nigeria.
The committee has also suggested embracing new technologies in livestock production throughout Nigeria.
Professor Jega states that the report provides comprehensive guidance regarding the operations of the newly established Federal Ministry of Livestock, which was recently announced by President Tinubu.
The committee’s report is anticipated to be released to the public shortly, aiming to gather additional feedback from the community.
