Oluwatobi Adu 
ADAMAWA, Nigeria – The Federal Government imposes a nationwide ban on open grazing in a major step to end prolonged farmers–herders clashes.
The announcement comes during the inauguration of the first National Council on Livestock Development in Yola, Adamawa State.
Minister of Livestock Development, Mukhtar Maiha, says open grazing has caused avoidable bloodshed, displacement, and nationwide insecurity. “Nigerians have suffered untold hardships, including the killing of innocent farmers and herders. There is an urgent need to stop this problem,” he states.
Maiha stresses that the ban is now a capital offence, urging herders to embrace ranching, which he describes as safer and more profitable. “Ranching prevents conflict and improves cattle quality for better business,” he adds.
He discloses that the livestock sector is projected to generate $74 billion over five years, with $14 billion already realised from new initiatives.
Adamawa Deputy Governor, Kaleptawa Farauta, calls the launch timely, noting the state’s strategic role in livestock production.
The newly formed National Council—comprising livestock directors from all 36 states and the FCT—is tasked with driving modern livestock policies, improving security, and boosting economic productivity.
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Korede Abdullah 
Koko Maxwella