Eleven Nigerian states have taken proactive steps toward establishing ranches as a strategic solution to the persistent violent clashes between herders and farmers, which have tragically resulted in numerous deaths across the country. The initiative involves allocating lands, developing policies, and encouraging private sector participation to modernize livestock management and reduce conflict.
The states leading this effort are Lagos, Plateau, Ondo, Zamfara, Bauchi, Delta, Niger, Kano, Jigawa, Nasarawa, and Anambra. Some have already allocated land for ranching, while others are formulating frameworks to guide the initiative as a sustainable business model.
This development follows a recent surge in violence, notably in Benue and Plateau states, where over 200 people were killed in Yelewata, Benue State, by armed assailants linked to herders. President Bola Tinubu attributed the violence to land-grabbing and vowed to bring the perpetrators to justice. He also established a committee of elders, including former governors and traditional rulers, to foster peace in the region. The Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, and Chief of Defence Staff, Gen Christopher Musa, were directed to arrest the alleged killers immediately.
Okay.ng reports that in Lagos State, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Systems, Emmanuel Audu, revealed that the state has been developing its ranching system for over three years. “We are already implementing the project, and we are at the development stage. We have the land and are putting infrastructure in place,” he said, adding that Lagos welcomes collaboration with the Federal Government and private investors. Lagos also enforces a strict anti-open grazing law, making it illegal to graze cattle openly within the state.
Residents of Lagos largely support ranching as a safer, more sustainable alternative to open grazing. Emmanuel Sanusi from Surulere stated, “Ranching is better because it is more sustainable, secure, and economically productive… ranching confines livestock to a controlled environment, reducing clashes and improving community safety.” Similarly, political activist Ayoyinka Oni emphasized the need for cattle owners to secure large tracts of land for grazing if they prefer open grazing, which he opposes.
In Anambra State, Information Commissioner Dr. Law Mefor confirmed the continuation of the anti-open grazing law and Governor Chukwuma Soludo’s cooperation with the Federal Government on ranching. “You can count on Anambra State to contribute land for ranching once other states start doing so,” he said. However, some residents and activists remain skeptical, viewing the ranching initiative as a personal business venture benefiting a select few.
Ondo State, despite not having formalized a partnership with the Federal Government, operates two ranches and maintains its anti-open grazing stance since 2020. Senior Special Assistant Akinsola Wemimo noted the state’s openness to investors interested in ranching.
Zamfara State, heavily affected by herder-farmer conflicts, has pledged land for ranching. Mustafa Jafaru, Special Assistant to Governor Dauda Lawal, stressed the state’s commitment to ending violence through ranching, highlighting its abundant land resources.
Nasarawa State has allocated 22,000 hectares in Awe Local Government Area for the Federal Government’s ranching project. Governor Abdullahi Sule emphasized the program’s potential to resolve security issues linked to open grazing and called for its nationwide inauguration in participating states.
Plateau State also supports ranching, with the recent launch of the Wase Grazing Lot marking a collaborative effort between the Federal Ministry of Livestock Development and the state government. Special Adviser Yiljap Abraham detailed plans to modernize livestock infrastructure, including expanding the Jos abattoir’s capacity.
Conversely, Adamawa State has yet to receive formal requests from the Federal Ministry of Livestock for ranching land, although Governor Ahmadu Fintiri approved 800 hectares for pasture development. The state maintains several grazing reserves but remains cautious about fully embracing ranching.
In Gombe State, Governor Muhammadu Yahaya announced a N60 billion Federal Government fund for an agro-livestock hub, sparking mixed reactions. Some residents welcome the shift to ranching as a way to reduce conflicts and create jobs, while others express concern about displacement and lack of consultation.
Akwa Ibom residents largely support ranching, viewing it as a means to reduce clashes and enhance food security. Mrs. Lovina Anthony urged communities to donate land for the initiative.
Meanwhile, Benue and Edo states have not committed to providing land for ranching. Benue’s Commissioner for Information, Mathew Abo, stated that the government is yet to decide on land allocation despite enforcing anti-open grazing laws. Some residents oppose ranching, citing ongoing violence and distrust of herders.
Edo State’s government remains undecided, with calls from local experts to consider policy implications carefully before accepting federal funds for ranching.
Kwara State is adopting a hybrid approach, combining ranching and controlled open grazing, with investments in boreholes and feed preparation to support pastoralists.
Oyo State maintains its anti-open grazing law, with over 58 cattle arrests and prosecutions in recent years. The state government has enhanced security for farmers and is open to agricultural land donations to boost food production.
Bayelsa State prohibits open grazing and has set aside land for grazing, though it is unclear if this will be converted to ranches. Farmers in the state are divided over the initiative’s potential benefits and risks.
In Imo State, the Peoples Democratic Party opposes ranching, fearing it may provoke clashes. However, academics advocate for a legal framework to regulate ranching and reduce conflicts.
As Nigeria grapples with the complex pastoral crisis, the ranching initiative represents a multi-state effort to modernize livestock management, improve security, and promote sustainable agriculture. The success of this program will depend on effective collaboration between federal and state governments, community engagement, and transparent management of resources.
