The Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN) has urged the Federal Government to update Nigeria’s livestock census, citing outdated data as a major challenge to effective grazing reserve management.
The association’s National Secretary, Aliyu Gotomo, stressed that accurate data is crucial to prevent overgrazing and enhance pastoralist livelihoods.
His call follows the Minister of Livestock Development, Idi Maiha’s, announcement of plans to digitize all grazing reserves and routes nationwide.
Gotomo emphasized that without reliable data, managing grazing reserves becomes difficult, leading to overcrowding and environmental degradation.
He pointed out that Nigeria’s livestock data collection has been inconsistent, with the last major survey conducted in 2016/2017. A more recent report in 2022 relied on household surveys instead of direct livestock counts, leaving gaps in accurate population figures.
MACBAN also supports the digital mapping of grazing reserves, arguing that it would improve security, resource management, and accessibility.
Gotomo noted that digitalization would help track the availability of infrastructure such as watering points and veterinary centers, which are essential for sustainable livestock farming.
Other stakeholders have also raised concerns about funding for grazing reserves.
The President of the Commercial Dairy Ranchers Association of Nigeria, Muhammadu Abubakar, questioned the adequacy of the current budget allocation, while the Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry’s Agriculture and Allied Group Chairman, Tunde Banjoko, suggested that investing in feed and fodder production along grazing routes could reduce farmer-herder conflicts.
Furthermore, stakeholders agree that an updated livestock census, improved infrastructure, and digital mapping are essential steps toward sustainable livestock management in Nigeria.
