Gov Alia Urges FG To Enact Legislation Against Open Grazing

As part of commitment, dedication and reaffirmation of responsibility to sustainable agriculture, Benue State Governor, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia, has called on the Federal Government to enact a legislation prohibiting open grazing.

Governor Alia, who reaffirmed his unwavering commitment to the sustainability of the Anti Open Grazing and Establishment of Ranches law of Benue State (2017) as amended, urged the Federal Ministry of Livestock Development to spearhead national legislative reforms that promote ranching and move away from outdated methods of open grazing.

Alia, who stated these during the opening of the 1st Benue Livestock Summit themed; “Re-imagining the Future of Livestock Production in Nigeria for Economic Growth and Self-Sufficiency”, further stressed the significance of the livestock sector, which he noted is historically outweighed by crop production in Benue.

He pointed out that with the right policies and investments, livestock development could withstand food insecurity, advance wealth generation, and contribute substantially to Nigeria’s GDP.

Alia expressed gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for establishing the Federal Ministry of Livestock Development, which he believes will bring essential consideration to the livestock community.

The Governor said the summit associates with the Benue State Development Plan (BSDP) 2025–2034, showcasing the potentiality of the livestock sector to transform the state’s economy and build up self-sufficiency.

He summarized ambitious plans to boost livestock development as a priority within his administration, introducing the Bureau for Livestock Development and Transboundary Animal Diseases Control.

He said the bureau aims to promote effective policies and programs in the sector, thus announced the strategic adoption of “Pasture as a Fodder Crop” in 2025, which seeks to cultivate improved pastures for regions with high livestock populations.

Governor Alia also submitted a thorough list of the remaining facilities in Benue that could be revitalized through public-private partnerships, including cattle ranches, breeding centers, and agricultural development projects.

He announced policies being put in place to establish 10 feed mills and hatcheries in each of the senatorial districts, alongside the agricultural training centers to bridge the void between extension workers and farmers.