The Federal Government has reaffirmed its commitment to transforming Nigeria’s livestock industry through sustainable pasture development, describing grazing reserves as more than just parcels of land, but as hubs of opportunity for food security, peacebuilding, and rural prosperity.

Speaking at the inaugural National Pasture Planting Day, held on August 12, 2025, at the Kawu Grazing Reserve in Bwari Area Council, FCT, the Minister of Livestock Development, Idi Mukhtar Maiha, said the event marks a bold national step toward modernizing the livestock sector and revitalizing grazing reserves across the country.

“Our grazing reserves are not merely patches of land but hubs of opportunity—for pasture and crop production, breed improvement, animal health, youth employment, women empowerment, and environmental stewardship,” Maiha emphasized.

Key Government Interventions

The Minister unveiled strategic measures under the National Pasture Development Programme, including:

• Release and registration of eight new pasture varieties into the national seed system.
• Training of herders and extension officers to enhance livestock management.
• Establishment of strategic pasture seed banks and feedlots.
• Deployment of irrigation and water harvesting systems to improve year-round pasture availability.
• Strong research partnerships with universities, the National Animal Production Research Institute (NAPRI), and international organizations to develop drought-resistant, high-yielding forage species.

Local & National Impact

The Kawu Grazing Reserve, spanning nearly 9,000 hectares and home to 36 villages, is expected to benefit significantly from this initiative. Maiha noted that sustainable pasture cultivation will reduce farmer-herder conflicts, restore degraded ecosystems, and open new economic opportunities in the livestock value chain.

Supporting the initiative, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, represented by Dr. Mariya Mahmoud Bunkure, pledged to provide critical infrastructure to modernize the Kawu reserve, creating jobs while boosting meat and milk production.

The Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Dr. Chinyere Ijeoma Akujobi, represented by Mr. Shekamang Ayuba, highlighted that pasture development will strengthen food systems, reduce tension between communities, and support sustainable livelihoods for farmers and herders.

Stakeholder Support

Development partners, pastoral associations, cooperatives, and private sector players—including SAHEL Consulting Agriculture and Nutrition Ltd.—commended the government’s efforts and pledged support to scale up modern pasture cultivation across Nigeria.

The symbolic planting of pasture seedlings by the Ministers and community leaders concluded the event, symbolizing a new era of sustainable livestock management in Nigeria.

“As we plant these grasses today, let it mark the beginning of a new era where our livestock sector becomes a source of harmony, jobs, and prosperity,” Maiha said.