Unlocking Nigeria's $100 Billion Livestock Industry: The Need for Modern Ranching and Effective Governance

 

The Nigerian livestock industry is a significant contributor to the country's economy, with a projected value of over $100 billion. However, the industry is plagued by challenges such as open grazing, farmer-herder conflicts, and insecurity. To address these issues, stakeholders are calling for the adoption of modern ranching practices and the creation of a Ministry of Livestock Development.

Experts argue that open grazing is not only unsustainable but also harmful to the environment and the livestock industry. They emphasize that ranching is the modern way of cattle farming, which is more profitable and nutritious. The creation of a Ministry of Livestock Development is seen as a welcome development, but some experts caution that it should not be politicized and should prioritize the interests of all stakeholders.

The Ministry of Livestock Development should focus on developing ranching or grazing reserves, which is the modern way of cattle farming. This approach would not only resolve the crisis but also create jobs and improve the country's foreign reserves. The ministry should also set up a highly consultative conference to proffer and engage on short-term to long-term solutions to the myriad of problems facing the livestock industry.

The stakeholders also emphasized the need for the government to put its feet down and stop open grazing. They argued that most of the herders seen in the public are not the actual owners of the cows, and that the owners have enough financial resources to set up ranches in their states and run the business comfortably.

The creation of the Ministry of Livestock Development is seen as a step in the right direction, but it should not be a duplication of the Ministry of Agriculture. The ministry should have a clear mandate and should prioritize the development of the livestock industry. The government should also ensure that the ministry is well-funded and has the necessary resources to carry out its mandate.

In conclusion, the adoption of modern ranching practices and the creation of a Ministry of Livestock Development are crucial steps towards unlocking Nigeria's $100 billion livestock industry. The ministry should prioritize the development of the industry, promote ranching or grazing reserves, and ensure that the interests of all stakeholders are protected.