Senator Nwoko Proposes Ranches in All 774 LGAs to End Open Grazing

Senator Ned Nwoko has called for the establishment of ranches across Nigeria’s 774 local government areas and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) as part of efforts to modernise livestock farming, curb open grazing, and boost food security.

Nwoko, who represents Delta North Senatorial District, disclosed this in Abuja during an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN). He explained that the proposal is contained in a bill currently before the Senate 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 lawmaker said the bill seeks to create a comprehensive legal framework for ranch development and management nationwide. According to him, it provides for land allocation with state-level approvals, environmental safeguards in ranch projects, and transparent funding primarily through public-private partnerships.

Nwoko, who is Vice Chairman of the Senate Committee on Environment and Chairman of the Senate Committee on Reparations and Repatriation, noted that the legislation also proposes the creation of a Ranch Management and Development Agency to regulate operations, enforce compliance, and ensure sustainable practices. It further outlines mechanisms to resolve conflicts among stakeholders, particularly disputes between farmers and herders.

He stressed that the bill would promote modern livestock practices through the establishment of dedicated and legally recognised ranches. It also aims to strengthen collaboration between federal, state, and local governments while respecting constitutional provisions and land tenure laws.

According to Nwoko, the proposed law will protect the rights of individuals and communities in land acquisition for ranching, in line with the Land Use Act and other legislation. It also prioritises environmental sustainability, livestock welfare, health and disease control, and the enforcement of ranching standards.

The senator added that the bill makes room for private sector participation through financial incentives and partnerships, while also ensuring compensation and resettlement for communities whose lands are acquired for ranch projects. He said the initiative is expected to create jobs, stimulate local economies, and contribute to national food security.

Nwoko emphasised that the passage of the bill would help address recurring farmer-herder conflicts, modernise livestock farming, and support economic growth by integrating ranching into Nigeria’s agricultural system.