Senator Ned Nwoko (APC-Delta) has called for the creation and proper management of ranches across all 774 local government areas in Nigeria, including the Federal Capital Territory (FCT). He said this would help improve food security in the country.
The senator, who represents Delta North, explained that his proposal is captured in a bill currently before the Senate.
The bill is 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.”
Nwoko said the legislation is meant to provide a strong legal framework to support ranch development and management nationwide.
As Vice Chairman of the Senate Committee on Environment, he added that the bill would encourage modern livestock farming, reduce open grazing, and strengthen the nation’s food supply system.
The senator explained that the bill also makes provision for state-level approval for land use, ensures environmental sustainability in ranch projects, and promotes transparent funding through public-private partnerships.
He further noted that the law seeks to establish a Ranch Management and Development Agency, which will regulate ranching, enforce compliance, and promote sustainable ranching practices.
The agency will also be responsible for handling disputes between stakeholders and ensuring that all ranching projects follow strict environmental and socio-economic rules.
Nwoko, who also chairs the Senate Committee on Reparations and Repatriation, said the bill would regulate ranching operations to reduce conflicts, especially between farmers and herders.
According to him, the legislation will modernize livestock farming practices, encourage collaboration among federal, state, and local governments, and ensure that land allocation follows constitutional and land tenure laws.
He explained that the bill will protect the rights of individuals, communities, and other stakeholders in land allocation for ranching, in line with the Land Use Act and other related laws.
It will also promote environmental sustainability by ensuring ranches meet prescribed standards before they are established and operated.
The senator added that the bill makes provision for livestock welfare, disease control, and dispute resolution, while also recognizing ranching standards under the law.
He pointed out that the law will create opportunities for private sector involvement in ranch development, with incentives and partnerships, while ensuring national food security through sustainable livestock production.
The bill also guarantees fair compensation and resettlement for individuals and communities whose lands are taken for ranch projects.
Finally, Nwoko stressed that the legislation will boost economic growth and create jobs by integrating ranching into local economies.
