On Wednesday, the Nigerian Senate engaged in a vigorous debate over a bill aimed at banning open grazing and promoting the establishment of ranches as a solution to the persistent and violent clashes between sedentary farmers and nomadic herders. The bill, introduced by Senator Titus Zam of Benue North-West, successfully passed its second reading after a contentious session.
Key Provisions of the Bill
The bill proposes several key measures to address the issue:
Prohibition of Open Grazing: The core objective is to ban open grazing nationwide, which Senator Zam argues will significantly reduce the violent conflicts between herders and farmers.
Establishment of Ranches: The bill advocates for modernizing livestock farming by establishing ranches. This move is intended to be safer and healthier for both herds and herders, aligning with international best practices in animal husbandry.
Voluntary Implementation: It specifies that ranches should be set up in states with pastoralist populations and should not be imposed on states or communities that do not have such populations. This provision aims to ensure peaceful coexistence and local acceptance.
Community Approval: Any party interested in establishing a ranch must seek and obtain approval from the host community, emphasizing the importance of local consent and cooperation.
Senate Debate Highlights
During the debate, Senator Zam highlighted that banning open grazing and moving to ranching is not only a matter of security but also an economic necessity. He pointed out that the traditional methods of livestock rearing are outdated and hazardous, both to the animals and the people involved .
Opposition came from some lawmakers, including Deputy Senate President Barau Jibrin, who argued for stepping down the bill. However, the majority supported the proposal, and it passed via a voice vote. The bill has been referred to the Senate Committee on Agriculture and Trade and Investment and Legal Services for further review, with a report expected within a month.
National Summit and Public Hearing
In addition to legislative measures, the Senate has proposed a national summit on the issue, along with a public hearing to seek comprehensive solutions. This initiative aims to gather diverse perspectives and formulate a robust policy framework to address the conflicts sustainably.
Economic Considerations
During the debate, Senator Musa Garba underscored the financial challenges associated with ranching. He shared personal insights, explaining that maintaining a ranch is costly and that the average herder may not afford it without government assistance. This economic aspect is critical, as successful implementation of the bill will require substantial financial support and investment.
The bill’s advancement marks a significant step in Nigeria’s ongoing efforts to resolve the farmer-herder conflicts that have plagued various regions. The proposed shift to ranching represents a move towards more sustainable and peaceful agricultural practices in the country.
