The Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN) has expressed concerns that herders cannot afford to build ranches, citing high costs as a major obstacle.
This statement comes as the newly created Ministry of Livestock Development, established by President Bola Tinubu, aims to promote livestock development in Nigeria.
Baba Othman Ngelzarma, National President of MACBAN, emphasized that ranching has various models, but the most commonly discussed model involves acquiring land and providing necessary facilities, which is unaffordable for smallholder farmers.
Ngelzarma noted that over 70% of pastoralists are smallholder farmers with limited resources, making it challenging for them to adopt capital-intensive ranching practices.
He highlighted the importance of considering the peculiarities of cow ownership, which is often a family affair, in policy formulation.
He stated, “Ranching has so many models but once you mention ranching, what comes into mind is for somebody to go and buy land, or buy his own water and grass for his cows. Our pastoralists cannot do that.”
Ngelzarma then proposed an alternative approach, suggesting the conversion of grazing reserves in the north into community ranches, which would involve fencing the reserves, planting trees, and providing pasture and water.
This approach would allow herders to stay in designated areas and receive education on modern animal husbandry practices.
Ngelzarma emphasized the need for policymakers to understand the peculiarities of cow ownership and the importance of quantity over quality for herders.
He noted that cow ownership is not only a source of livelihood but also a symbol of status and pride.