Mohamed Garba
The longstanding debate over grazing routes in Nigeria has resurfaced, highlighting deep-seated divisions between prominent socio-cultural groups and state governments. The Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN) continues to advocate for the reinstatement of traditional grazing routes, asserting that such measures are essential to resolve the persistent herder-farmer conflicts. In contrast, the pan-Yoruba socio-cultural organization, Afenifere, alongside various state governments and farming communities, firmly opposes this proposal, citing concerns over security and land rights.
MACBAN has consistently called for the restoration of grazing routes as a solution to the escalating clashes between herders and farmers. Alhaji Sadique Ibrahim Ahmed, the Bauchi State chairman of MACBAN, emphasized that reviving these routes, which were operational during the First Republic, would provide herders with designated paths and reduce conflicts over land use. He stated, “If the governments can bring back the cattle grazing routes in existence in the First Republic… it will bring lasting solution to the problem.”
Furthermore, MACBAN has expressed concerns over the financial burden of establishing private ranches, arguing that many herders lack the resources to transition from traditional pastoral practices to modern ranching systems. The association has advocated for government intervention to convert existing grazing reserves into community ranches, thereby supporting herders in maintaining their livelihoods without incurring prohibitive costs.
Afenifere has been a vocal opponent of the reintroduction of grazing routes, aligning with the resolutions of the Southern Governors’ Forum, which, in the Asaba Declaration of May 2021, imposed a ban on open grazing across Southern Nigeria. The declaration emphasized the need for modern livestock management systems and called for restructuring to promote true federalism.
The organization argues that reinstating grazing routes is anachronistic and poses significant security risks to local communities. They advocate for ranching as a sustainable alternative, urging the Federal Government to support states in developing these systems. Afenifere’s spokesperson, Jare Ajayi, emphasized the importance of enforcing the open grazing ban and empowering regional security outfits to ensure compliance.
Several state governments have enacted laws prohibiting open grazing, reflecting a commitment to safeguarding farmers’ rights and addressing security concerns. These laws aim to prevent the destruction of farmlands and reduce violent clashes between herders and local communities. Farmers’ associations have lauded these legislative measures, asserting that they are crucial for protecting agricultural investments and ensuring food security.
The Federal Government finds itself at a crossroads, tasked with balancing the interests of pastoralists, farmers, and regional authorities. While initiatives like the National Livestock Transformation Plan have been introduced to modernize livestock management and reduce conflicts, implementation has been sluggish. The government faces mounting pressure to clarify its stance on grazing routes and collaborate with stakeholders to devise equitable and sustainable solutions.
The discord between Miyetti Allah and Afenifere over grazing routes underscores the complexities inherent in addressing Nigeria’s herder-farmer crisis. As state governments and farming communities continue to challenge the Federal Government’s policies, the need for inclusive dialogue and innovative approaches to livestock management becomes increasingly evident. Achieving a consensus that respects the rights and livelihoods of all parties involved remains a critical challenge for Nigeria’s leadership.
