Divisive ranching bill in Senate

Nigeria is currently grappling with the divisive issue of open grazing, underscored by recent Senate debates over a bill proposing a National Animal Husbandry and Ranches Commission. This bill aims to regulate ranching as a more sustainable alternative to primitive open grazing practices that have fueled ethnic tensions and insecurity. Despite resistance from some northern senators, advocating for traditional herding practices, the need for ranching is critical due to its potential to enhance livestock productivity, improve food security, and mitigate conflicts between herders and farmers. The government must prioritize effective governance, law enforcement, and economic incentives to successfully transition from open grazing to ranching and ensure a prosperous future for Nigeria. Source: Punch

Our Review

Nigeria faces a critical juncture in its agricultural and socio-economic development, particularly highlighted by the contentious Senate debate over the proposed bill to ban open grazing nationwide. The ongoing conflict between ethnic nationalists over primitive open grazing underscores the urgent need for legislative action aligned with international best practices. The establishment of the National Animal Husbandry and Ranches Commission, as proposed, represents a progressive step towards addressing these challenges. The debate at the Senate revealed stark regional divides, with Northern lawmakers opposing restrictions on herders’ movement while Southern counterparts support ranching as a more sustainable alternative. This regional discord underscores the complexity of the issue, compounded by security concerns exacerbated by activities of Fulani herdsmen. Nigeria’s ranking as the eighth most terrorized country globally further underscores the urgency of resolving these conflicts for enhanced food security and socio-economic stability. Transitioning from traditional nomadic herding to modern ranching practices is essential for Nigeria’s future prosperity. Ranching not only enhances livestock productivity but also mitigates farmer-herder conflicts and improves food security. However, resistance from vested interests and sentimental attachments to the past continue to impede progress. To facilitate this transition, Nigeria must prioritize effective governance, law enforcement, and investment in ranching infrastructure. Tax incentives, access to financing, and training programs for herders are essential measures to incentivize and support the adoption of ranching practices nationwide. These efforts are crucial for transforming Nigeria’s agricultural landscape and ensuring sustainable development.