JUST IN: Nigerian Senate Passes Bill to Regulate Cattle Rearing, Ranching

The Nigerian Senate has successfully passed a bill establishing the National Animal Husbandry and Ranches Commission, aimed at controlling and regulating the cattle rearing and ranching business nationwide. The bill, championed by Senator Titus Tartenger Zam of Benue North West, ignited a heated debate on Wednesday.

Senator Zam emphasized the necessity of the Commission for the efficient management, regulation, and preservation of ranches throughout Nigeria. “The proposed National Animal Husbandry and Ranches Commission is for management, preservation, and control of ranches across the country,” he explained.

Despite its intended benefits, the bill faced strong opposition from Senators Danjuma Goje of Gombe and Adamu Aliero of Kebbi. Both lawmakers, who are former governors, argued that the bill disproportionately affects the North, where cattle rearing is more prevalent. They stressed that legislation should address the entire country, not just a specific region. Goje pointed out that cattle routes span from the far north to Lokoja, without extending to the South.

Senator Hussein Babangida Uba of Jigawa North-West urged caution, highlighting the bill’s controversial history and the need for thorough consideration.

Proponents of the bill contended that the Commission could help mitigate the ongoing farmers/herders crisis, advocating for its passage. Following a voice vote led by Senate President Godswill Akpabio, the bill was passed and subsequently referred to the Senate Committee on Agriculture, Judiciary, and Legal Matters for further review within four weeks.