Senator Ned Nwoko has called for the creation and proper management of ranches in all 774 local government areas of the country, including the Federal Capital Territory, as part of a wider move to boost food security and end open grazing.
The senator, who represents Delta North, explained that the proposal is contained in a bill already before the Senate. Officially titled “A Bill for an Act to Provide for the Establishment, Development, and Management of Ranches in the 774 Local Government Areas and the Federal Capital Territory, to Promote Modern Livestock Farming, Curb Open Grazing, Enhance Food Security, and for Related Matters”, the legislation is designed to lay down a legal framework for modern livestock farming.
Nwoko, Vice Chairman of the Senate Committee on Environment, said the bill would promote large-scale ranching, reduce farmer-herder clashes, and improve food security. He stressed that ranch development under the bill would be tied to state-level land approvals, environmental safeguards, and transparent funding through public-private partnerships.
According to him, the legislation also provides for the setting up of a Ranch Management and Development Agency that will handle regulation, enforcement, and the adoption of sustainable ranching practices. Conflict resolution mechanisms are included to address disputes between farmers, herders, and other stakeholders, while strict socio-economic and environmental standards would guide operations.
As Chairman of the Senate Committee on Reparations and Repatriation, Nwoko noted that the proposed law is built to regulate ranching activities and stop conflicts linked to open grazing. He emphasised that the system would modernise livestock farming, encourage cooperation among federal, state and local governments, and respect constitutional land use provisions.
He further explained that the bill seeks to protect the rights of individuals and communities in land allocation and acquisition, in line with the Land Use Act. It also aims to uphold environmental sustainability by enforcing standards in ranch construction and operation.
“The legislation will create clear legal mechanisms for licensing, monitoring and enforcing ranching standards. It will also provide for the welfare, health and disease control of livestock in line with veterinary laws and best practices,” Nwoko said.
The senator highlighted that dispute resolution processes will be backed by law, while private investors would be encouraged to participate through incentives and partnerships. He said this approach would drive sustainable livestock production, strengthen food supply, and open new economic opportunities.
He also pointed out that the bill ensures fair compensation and resettlement for people whose land may be acquired for ranching projects, while supporting employment creation by integrating ranching into local economies.
If passed, the bill is expected to not only address the decades-old herder-farmer crisis but also create a structured system for livestock management that aligns with global standards.
