Senator Ned Nwoko Proposes Ranches in All LGAs to Modernize Livestock Farming

Nigerian Senator Ned Nwoko has proposed the establishment and management of ranches in all 774 local government areas and the Federal Capital Territory to enhance food security, curb open grazing, and modernize livestock farming.

The Delta North lawmaker, who serves as Vice Chairman of the Senate Committee on Environment, disclosed in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria in Abuja on Monday that his proposal is part of a bill currently before the Senate.

The legislation, 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,” aims to create a legal framework for nationwide ranch development and management.

The bill provides for state-level approvals for land allocation, ensures environmental sustainability, and promotes transparent funding through public-private partnerships. It also proposes the creation of a Ranch Management and Development Agency to oversee compliance, enforce regulations, and implement sustainable ranching practices.

Nwoko highlighted that the legislation would foster conflict resolution between farmers and herders, ensure environmental and socio-economic compliance, and encourage collaboration among federal, state, and local governments.

“It will help modernize livestock farming practices through the establishment of dedicated and legally recognized ranches. It will facilitate cooperation between the federal and state governments as well as local councils in implementing and managing ranching projects, while respecting constitutional provisions and land tenure laws,” he said.

The bill also aims to protect the rights of individuals, communities, and stakeholders in land allocation for ranching, address livestock welfare and disease control, and encourage private sector involvement through financial incentives and partnerships.

Additionally, it provides for fair compensation and resettlement of communities affected by ranching projects and integrates ranching activities into local economies to create jobs and drive development.

“The legislation establishes legal mechanisms for licensing, regulation, monitoring, and enforcement of ranching standards. It also facilitates the resolution of disputes arising from ranching operations through statutory processes and legally recognized mechanisms,” Nwoko explained.

As chairman of the Senate Committee on Reparations and Repatriation, Nwoko described the bill as a transformative step toward enhancing national food security and promoting sustainable livestock production across Nigeria.