Benue Endorses FG’s Bold Shift to Ranching, Backs New Livestock Policy

Benue State has thrown its full support behind the Federal Government’s new livestock management policy, signalling a fresh wave of cooperation aimed at reshaping the country’s livestock industry.

Source: e360.yale.edu

Dr. Aondoakaa Asambe, Director-General of the Bureau of Livestock Development & Transboundary Animal Diseases Control, praised President Bola Tinubu’s decision to prohibit open grazing and adopt ranching as the sustainable path forward. He described the move as a long-awaited turning point for communities that have endured years of tension between farmers and herders.

President Tinubu had, a day earlier, declared a security emergency and ordered herders to surrender illegal weapons, a directive that further reinforced the government’s commitment to restoring peace.

Governor Hyacinth Alia had previously argued that Benue’s anti-open grazing law could only be effectively enforced if adopted nationwide. The new federal policy appears to answer that call. Asambe said the decision reflects bold leadership and offers a clear strategy for ending recurrent attacks on farmers.

According to the statement, Benue is already adjusting its livestock systems to align with global best practices and stands prepared to partner fully with the Federal Government. The state believes the President’s stance has the potential to boost national security while modernising Nigeria’s livestock sector into a productive and globally competitive enterprise.

Asambe commended Tinubu’s pledge to work closely with states, stressing that the support comes at a crucial moment. He expressed confidence that strong, coordinated action will follow, noting that open grazing has grown into a major security and socio-economic challenge that requires decisive policy backed by law.

He urged the Federal Government to swiftly forward a comprehensive legislative framework to the National Assembly to ensure consistent implementation across the country. Such a law, he said, would give ranching the legal foundation it needs and strengthen national efforts toward peace, productivity, and sustainable development.

With the new policy unfolding, Asambe described the moment as a pivotal chapter for the country. He expressed optimism that a blend of sound policy, robust legislation, and genuine collaboration will pave the way for lasting peace, better livelihoods, and renewed confidence in the future of Nigeria’s livestock industry.