The Federal Government has dismissed reports claiming it has imposed a nationwide ban on open grazing, clarifying instead that Nigeria is transitioning gradually toward modern ranching systems.

In a statement issued on Tuesday, the Head of Press and Public Relations at the Federal Ministry of Livestock Development, Oghenekevwe Uchechukwu, said the Minister of Livestock Development, Alhaji Idi Maiha, has not announced any such ban.

“Rather than an outright prohibition, the government is implementing a gradual, structured transition from open grazing to modern ranching systems,” the statement read.

According to the Ministry, Nigeria currently has 273 gazetted grazing reserves covering more than 4.5 million hectares. The Federal Government is working with state governments to revitalise and equip these reserves so they can support pastoralists and other livestock operators.

“The transition plan does not abolish open grazing overnight but provides viable alternatives that support productivity, reduce conflicts, and promote a sustainable livestock ecosystem,” the statement added.

Maiha stressed that pastoralists, like other economic groups, need an organised business environment to thrive. “The grazing reserves provided by law are meant to serve as business premises for all livestock activities. Our responsibility is to upgrade these reserves and facilitate their proper utilisation,” he said.

The Ministry urged Nigerians to ignore misleading reports and rely on verified government communication channels for accurate updates on livestock policies.

Nigeria has for years explored pathways to modernise livestock production. Through initiatives such as the National Livestock Transformation Plan, the government has promoted ranching as a strategy to reduce farmer–herder conflicts, boost productivity, and align the livestock sector with national economic goals.

Previous efforts, including the proposed RUGA (Rural Grazing Area) settlements, faced strong opposition in several states over land rights and security concerns. However, with the re-establishment of the Ministry of Livestock Development, the government has reiterated that open grazing will be phased out — but only through a gradual, consultative process rather than an immediate nationwide ban.