Benue State Government has tasked the Federal Government to expedite the transmission of a comprehensive legislative framework on the recent policy pronouncement prohibiting open grazing, and adopting ranching as the sustainable model for livestock production, to the National Assembly.
It said that such a legislation will ensure uniform implementation of the policy across the country, provide legal backing for the transition to ranching, and strengthen national efforts aimed at peacebuilding, productivity, and sustainable development.
The state government while applauding President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for the policy, also commended the bold move
directing herders to surrender their illegal weapons.
A statement by Dr. Aondoakaa Asambe, the Benue State Director General of the Bureau of Livestock Development & Transboundary Animal Diseases Control, noted that Nigeria is at a strategic turning point, emphasising that with the right blend of policy, legislation, and collaboration, this initiative can deliver lasting peace, improved livelihoods, and renewed confidence in the future of the nation’s livestock industry.
It also described President Tinubu’s declaration as a bold and visionary step capable of addressing the persistent herders’ attacks on farmlands, farmers and farming communities.
Asambe also said that the policy would enhance national security, transform Nigeria’s livestock sector into a modern, productive, and globally competitive enterprise.
The statement noted that the President’s assurance that the Federal Government would work closely with the states, will provide the necessary support to finally resolve the challenge, is both timely and commendable.
Asambe said that Benue State under the leadership of Governor Hyacinth Iormem Alia, is already taking progressive steps in aligning with global best practices for livestock management adding that the state is ready to collaborate fully with the Federal Government.
“We hope that this important pronouncement will be followed by coordinated and sustained action because open grazing has evolved into a significant security and socio-economic concern, requiring clear policy direction backed by enforceable law,” he said.
