Benue State Governor, Hyacinth Alia, has urged the Federal Government to implement the Anti-Open Grazing Prohibition and Ranches Establishment Law across the country as a measure to curb security challenges linked to herdsmen attacks.
Governor Alia made the appeal while declaring open the Benue Livestock Summit 2025 in Makurdi, the state capital.
Reaffirming his administration’s unwavering commitment to enforcing the 2017 Anti-Open Grazing Lawin Benue State, Governor Alia emphasized that the summit aligns with the state’s broader economic growth and self-sufficiency strategy.
He highlighted the government’s focus on livestock development, pointing to existing facilities in the state that are primed for expansion.
As part of efforts to enhance production and attract investment, he revealed plans for ranching milis and agricultural training centers across various locations, aimed at equipping farmers with modern skills and improving livestock productivity.
The governor also stressed the need for a strategic partnership between the state and federal governments to drive reforms in the livestock sector. He pledged to implement resolutions from the summit, including the creation of a comprehensive roadmap for ranching in Benue.
Speaking at the event, Minister of Livestock Development, Alhaji Idi Muktar Maiha, lauded the initiative, describing it as a vital step toward harnessing Benue’s rich natural resources for livestock prosperity. He praised Governor Alia’s leadership, noting that it aligns with the Federal Government’s renewed hope agenda for economic development.