March 22, (THEWILL) – Benue State governor, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia, has advocated the banning of open grazing in the country as a panacea for peace between herders and farmers.
The governor, who made his feeling known during the Benue Livestock Summit 2025 in Makurdi, with the theme, “Re-imagining the future of Livestock production in Nigeria for economic growth and self sufficiency”, called on the federal government to rather promote ranching nationwide.
He pointed out that agriculture in the past was dominated by crop production despite the contribution of livestock farming, assuring that his administration is committed to changing the narrative through focus on livestock, among others.
Commending the Minister for his involvement in the Summit, the Governor called on him to assist attract foreign direct investment in livestock in the state, expressing optimism that the summit will enrich promotion of livestock development, which he noted is a key driver to economic growth of the state and nation.
He pledged to establish ten feed mills in each of the three senatorial districts in the state, as well as hatchery, arguing that the absence of ranches in the country has slowed down livestock business.
In his remarks, the Minister of Livestock Development, Alhaji Idi Mukhtar Maidi, said livestock will remain forever unlike other mineral resources, noting that such will create jobs opportunity for the youths and build bridges of peace among stakeholders.
According to the Minister, for governor Alia’s administration to have organised the livestock summit of this nature is a clear indication of keying into the Renew Hope Agenda of president Bola Tinubu.
Earlier, the Director General, Bureau of Livestock and Development and trans boundary animal diseases control, Dr Aondoakaa Asambe, noted that the gathering was not just an event—it is a milestone in the collective quest to reposition Nigeria’s livestock industry for economic growth and self-sufficiency.
“For us in Benue, this underscores our unwavering commitment to harnessing the vast potential of the livestock sector and transforming it into a key driver of economic growth, job creation, and food security”, he stated.
The Director General described the livestock sector as a critical component of Nigeria’s economy, contributing significantly to GDP, employment, trade, agribusiness, and food production.
He, however, said despite its enormous potentials, it continues to face numerous challenges, including limited access to finance and market linkages; inefficiencies in production and processing.
He, therefore, called for support and partnerships that will shape the future of livestock production in Benue State and Nigeria.
