Omanghana
The Nigerian Federal Government has announced a major ranching initiative intended to curb the prolonged and often deadly clashes between crop farmers and nomadic herders across the country.
Minister of Livestock Development Idi Mukhtar Maiha disclosed the plan after briefing President Bola Tinubu at the State House in mid-August 2026.
The first phase of the intervention will focus on Adamawa, Benue, Kaduna, Nasarawa and Plateau states, as well as the Federal Capital Territory. A pilot ranching program has already commenced in Wase, Plateau State.
Maiha said the traditional system of moving large herds over long distances had become increasingly unsustainable because of rapid urbanization, infrastructure expansion and the growth of commercial agriculture. These developments have disrupted many traditional grazing routes and intensified competition for land and water.
Under the National Ranching Policy, the government plans to rehabilitate 417 grazing reserves across Nigeria. Commercial pasture and water facilities will be developed within the reserves to reduce the movement of cattle into farmlands and prevent the destruction of crops.
The proposed ranching settlements will operate as integrated economic communities rather than simple enclosures for livestock. They are expected to include housing, primary schools, healthcare facilities, solar power systems and earth dams for irrigation and animal use.
By concentrating livestock production in designated areas, the government also hopes to attract private investment across the sector’s value chain. Proposed commercial facilities include milk-processing plants, modular abattoirs and biodigesters that can convert animal waste into energy and other useful products.
Technology will also form a significant part of the initiative. The government intends to introduce radio-frequency identification systems to address cattle rustling and ownership disputes.
Livestock will be fitted with electronic ear tags to support geolocation, monitoring and proof of ownership. Authorities believe the tracking system will improve security while providing reliable information about cattle movements.
The Ministry of Livestock Development is engaging approximately 34 pastoral organizations to build support for the transition from open grazing to modern ranching. Those consulted include leaders of Miyetti Allah and the Sultan of Sokoto.
The government expects the policy to reduce farmer-herder conflicts, improve livestock productivity and create new commercial opportunities within Nigeria’s agricultural sector.
Source: Omanghana
