Benue State Governor, Hyacinth Alia, has called on the Federal Government to enact legislation aimed at banning open grazing across Nigeria. Governor Alia made this appeal during the opening of the Benue Livestock Summit 2025 held in Makurdi, emphasizing that ranching is the only sustainable method of animal husbandry globally.
He urged the Minister of Livestock Development to take the lead in pursuing legislation that would not only prohibit open grazing but also support the establishment of ranches nationwide. The governor highlighted the state government’s objective to incorporate Benue into the Livestock Productivity and Resilience Support Project, addressing current deficiencies in livestock infrastructure.
“We reaffirm our administration’s commitment to the Prohibition of Open Grazing and Ranches Establishment Law 2017 (as amended),” Alia stated. He expressed hope that the Federal Ministry of Livestock Development would spearhead national legislative reforms focused on discouraging open grazing while promoting ranching.
The summit marks the beginning of a strategic partnership among Benue State, the Federal Ministry of Livestock Development, and international livestock stakeholders. Alia lamented that crop production has historically overshadowed livestock development in Benue, leading to a neglect of its vast potential to mitigate food insecurity and bolster economic growth.
He emphasized the need for diversification within the livestock value chain, seeking support to attract Foreign Direct Investment into the state’s pig industry, which has significant socio-economic advantages. The governor pointed out that the state is currently expanding arable land for crops that serve as animal feed, with the aim of enhancing livestock development through the summit’s outcomes.
Alia announced plans to implement ten feed mills and hatcheries per senatorial district, alongside establishing nine agricultural training centers targeted at bridging the gap between extension workers and farmers. He emphasized the importance of developing model ranches in collaboration with farmers and the private sector to facilitate livestock growth.
“A revitalized livestock sector will not only address food insecurity but also create wealth and expand value-chain opportunities, positioning Nigeria as a key player in the global livestock market,” he remarked.
The governor acknowledged the establishment of the Federal Ministry of Livestock Development, recognizing its pivotal role in shaping the sector’s future. He expressed confidence that the insights derived from the summit would significantly influence government policies, attract investment, and engage the livestock community both nationally and internationally.
