At the heart of Nigeria’s socio-economic concerns is the delicate balance between nomadic herders and sedentary farmers. A delicate issue, a source of recurring frictions and unrest which have led to losses of human lives and property, negatively impacting the country’s economy. However, a glimmer of hope appears on the horizon with the introduction of the bill to establish a National Livestock and Ranching Commission, a step toward a lasting solution to this centuries-old conflict.
Supporting the initiative, Chukwuma Okpalaezeukwu, the Acting National Leader of the leading Igbo socio-cultural organization, welcomed the proposal during an interactive session with journalists in Awka. This bill, carried by Senator Titus Zam, aims to supervise, manage, preserve and control ranches throughout Nigeria. By voting in favor of this project, the Senate took a crucial step by passing it to second reading.
According to Okpalaezeukwu, this measure appears to be an essential remedy to the recurring clashes between farmers and nomadic herders. These conflicts, with devastating consequences, threaten the national security and prosperity of the country. By establishing ranches, Nigeria could finally control and manage these unnecessary crises that affect the social and economic cohesion of the country.
The establishment of ranches thus represents a crucial step forward towards the resolution of this ancestral dispute. It is imperative for any government to guarantee the security and protection of citizens and their property, and the abandonment of free grazing presents itself as an essential measure to achieve this. Indeed, livestock farming should no longer be seen as an ethnic issue, but rather as a national security issue, requiring a pragmatic and non-emotional approach.
Countries that surpass Nigeria in terms of dairy production and livestock rearing do not face such crises, simply because they do not resort to open grazing. It is therefore imperative that Nigeria draws inspiration from these successful models to implement effective livestock and ranch management policies.
In conclusion, the proposal to establish a National Livestock and Ranching Commission represents a significant opportunity for Nigeria to resolve conflicts that have persisted for too long. By adopting this measure, the country is embarking on the path to security, stability and economic progress. It is essential that government authorities and various stakeholders join forces to realize this initiative and build a more serene future for all Nigerians.