Benue State Governor, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia, has urged the Federal Government to implement national legislation prohibiting open grazing, emphasizing the need for structured ranching to drive sustainable livestock development and economic transformation.
Speaking in Makurdi at the opening of the 1st Benue Livestock Summit, themed “Re-imagining the Future of Livestock Production in Nigeria for Economic Growth and Self-Sufficiency,” Alia highlighted the livestock sector’s immense but underutilized potential.
He noted that while Benue has long been known for its dominance in crop production, livestock farming remains largely neglected, despite its capacity to boost food security, create wealth, and significantly contribute to Nigeria’s GDP.
The governor commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for establishing the Federal Ministry of Livestock Development, stating that its creation marks a critical step toward repositioning the livestock industry as a key player in Nigeria’s economic growth.
He stressed that without decisive policies and investments, the sector would continue to fall short of its potential.
Alia reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to structured livestock development and reiterated his unwavering support for the Benue State Anti-Open Grazing and Ranches Establishment Law of 2017 (as amended).
He, however, called on the Federal Ministry of Livestock Development to take the lead in implementing national legislative reforms that would promote ranching as the standard practice for livestock management in Nigeria.
“As a state, we have taken deliberate steps to prioritize livestock development, evident in the establishment of the Bureau for Livestock Development and Transboundary Animal Diseases Control. But for us to fully harness the sector’s potential, we need the Federal Government’s backing through clear national policies that encourage ranching and discourage outdated practices that breed conflict and inefficiency,” Alia stated.
The governor also announced a major strategic initiative, “Pasture as a Fodder Crop,” set to launch in 2025. The program will see Benue cultivate improved pasture varieties that can be harvested, baled, and sold to other regions with high livestock populations, particularly for cattle and other ruminants.
According to him, this approach would enhance feed security, reduce pressure on natural grazing areas, and open new revenue streams for the state.
Alia further outlined plans for the rehabilitation and modernization of key livestock facilities across the state, including the Ikyôgen Cattle Ranch and Resort, the Livestock Investigation and Breeding Centre in Raav, and the Makurdi International Cattle Market.
He also disclosed his administration’s policy to establish ten feed mills and hatcheries in each senatorial district, alongside agricultural training centers designed to bridge the knowledge gap between extension workers and farmers.
He emphasized that a well-structured livestock sector is not just an economic necessity but also a tool for lasting peace, as it would mitigate conflicts between farmers and herders.
“The time to act is now. If we are serious about transforming livestock production into a major driver of economic growth and food security, we must move away from outdated practices and embrace modern, data-driven solutions that will benefit both pastoralists and the nation at large,” he added.
