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By Scholastica Hir, Makurdi
The Benue State Government has commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his recent policy pronouncement prohibiting open grazing, adopting ranching as the preferred model for sustainable livestock production, and directing herders to surrender illegal weapons.
Dr Aondoakaa Asambe, Director General, Bureau of Livestock Development and Transboundary Animal Diseases Control, made the commendation in a statement shared with newsmen in Makurdi.
Asambe described the President’s initiative as a bold and visionary move capable of addressing the ongoing crisis stemming from herder attacks on farmlands, farmers, and rural communities.
He stated that the new policy would also bolster national security and help transform Nigeria’s livestock sector into a modern, productive, and globally competitive enterprise.
The statement read, “The President’s assurance that the Federal Government, working closely with the states, will provide the necessary support to finally resolve this challenge is both timely and commendable.
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“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.
“We hope that this important pronouncement will be followed by coordinated and sustained action because open grazing has evolved into a significant security and socio-economic concern, requiring clear policy direction backed by enforceable law.”
The Director General called on the Federal Government to accelerate the drafting and submission of a comprehensive legislative framework to the National Assembly.
He said, “Such legislation will 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.”
According to him, “Nigeria is at a strategic turning point, and with the right blend of policy, legislation, and collaboration, this initiative can deliver lasting peace, improved livelihoods, and renewed confidence in the future of the nation’s livestock industry.”
