PRESS STATEMENT
Makurdi
27 November 2025
Benue State Government commends the President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, for his recent policy pronouncement prohibiting open grazing, adopting ranching as the sustainable model for livestock production, and directing herders to surrender illegal weapons.
The state describes the President’s declaration as a bold and visionary step capable of addressing the persistent herders attacks on farmlands, farmers and farming communities, enhancing national security, and transforming Nigeria’s livestock sector into a modern, productive, and globally competitive enterprise.
The President’s assurance that the Federal Government, working closely with the states, will provide the necessary support to finally resolve this challenge is both timely and commendable.
Benue State, under the leadership of Governor Hyacinth Iormem Alia, is already taking progressive steps in aligning with global best practices for livestock management and remains 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.
We encouraged the Federal Government to expedite the transmission of a comprehensive legislative framework to the National Assembly. Such legislation will ensure uniform implementation across the country, provide legal backing for the transition to ranching, and strengthen national efforts aimed at peacebuilding, productivity, and sustainable development.
Nigeria is at a strategic turning point, and 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.
Dr. Aondoakaa Asambe
Director General
Bureau of Livestock Development & Transboundary Animal Diseases Control
