By Austin Angwe, Makurdi
The Benue State Government has praised President Bola Tinubu for his recent policy pronouncement prohibiting open grazing and adopting ranching as the sustainable model for livestock production.
Benue Government in a statement by Dr. Aondoakaa Asambe, Director General of the Bureau of Livestock Development & Transboundary Animal Diseases Control, Thursday, in Makurdi, described the President’s declaration as a bold and visionary step capable of addressing the persistent herders’ attacks on farmlands, farmers, and farming communities.
The statement noted that Benue State, under the leadership of Governor Hyacinth 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.
The government urged the Federal Government to expedite the transmission of a comprehensive legislative framework to the National Assembly, ensuring uniform implementation across the country and providing legal backing for the transition to ranching .
The statement emphasized that open grazing has evolved into a significant security and socio-economic concern, requiring clear policy direction backed by enforceable law.
The Benue State Government believes that with the right blend of policy, legislation, and collaboration, this initiative could deliver lasting peace, improved livelihoods, and renewed confidence in the future of the nation’s livestock industry.