Index to Nigerian Newspapers

Several northern states in Nigeria are adopting the Rural Grazing Area initiative and establishing dedicated ministries of livestock development to resolve farmer and herder conflicts, enhance food production, and improve security. States like Borno, Yobe, Zamfara, Bauchi, Gombe, Kano, Kebbi, and Nasarawa have allocated land and begun developing infrastructure such as ranches, veterinary clinics, and water facilities to support modern livestock practices. Meanwhile, Kwara is combining ranching with controlled open grazing, and Kogi is awaiting formal policy directions from its new livestock ministry. Conversely, Plateau has ruled out the scheme in favor of an inclusive agricultural policy, while Benue is still reviewing the initiative, reflecting varying regional approaches to boosting the livestock sector and promoting peaceful coexistence.