Benue Supports New Livestock Policy

Benue State Supports Federal Livestock Policy

The Benue State Government has expressed its readiness to work closely with the Federal Government on a new livestock management policy. This move comes as part of a broader effort to address long-standing issues related to open grazing and security challenges in the agricultural sector.

Dr Aondoakaa Asambe, the Director-General of the Bureau of Livestock Development & Transboundary Animal Diseases Control, highlighted this commitment in a statement released on Thursday. He praised President Bola Tinubu for his decision to ban open grazing and promote ranching as a more sustainable model for livestock production.

This policy shift is seen as a critical step in addressing the ongoing conflicts between herders and farmers. In addition to the livestock management initiative, President Tinubu recently declared an emergency on security, directing herders to surrender any illegal weapons they may possess.

State’s Position on Open Grazing

In July, Governor Hyacinth Alia, through his Chief Press Secretary Kula Tersoo, emphasized that the state’s prohibition of open grazing would be difficult to enforce unless it became a national law. This sentiment reflects the challenges faced by local governments in implementing policies that require broader support from the federal level.

Asambe described the Federal Government’s approach as a bold and visionary step aimed at tackling the persistent attacks on farmlands and farming communities. He noted that the state government, under Governor Alia’s leadership, is already aligning with global best practices for livestock management.

Vision for Sustainable Livestock Production

The statement from Asambe read, “Benue State, under the leadership of Governor Hyacinth Iormem Alia, is already taking progressive steps in aligning with global best practices for livestock management and remains ready to collaborate fully with the Federal Government.”

He further stated that the President’s declaration was a significant move capable of addressing the ongoing herders’ attacks on farmlands, farmers, and farming communities. The policy is also expected to enhance national security and transform Nigeria’s livestock sector into a modern, productive, and globally competitive enterprise.

Asambe commended the President for his assurance of working closely with states to provide necessary support in resolving these challenges. He noted that the state government is optimistic about the potential for coordinated and sustained action following this pronouncement.

Call for Legislative Action

The state government emphasized that open grazing has evolved into a major security and socio-economic concern. It requires clear policy direction backed by enforceable laws. Asambe encouraged the Federal Government to expedite the transmission of a comprehensive legislative framework to the National Assembly.

This framework would ensure uniform implementation across the country, provide legal backing for the transition to ranching, and strengthen national efforts aimed at peacebuilding, productivity, and sustainable development.

A Turning Point for Nigeria’s Livestock Sector

With the new policy, Asambe said the country is at a significant turning point. He expressed hope that with the right blend of policy, legislation, and collaboration, the initiative would deliver lasting peace, improved livelihoods, and renewed confidence in the future of the nation’s livestock industry.