Sen. Ned Nwoko (APC–Delta) has called for the establishment, development, and management of ranches across all 774 local government areas and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) to enhance food security nationwide.
Nwoko, who represents Delta North Senatorial District, said in an interview in Abuja on Monday that his proposal is contained in a Bill currently before the Senate.
He explained that the proposal, 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,” seeks to establish a robust legal framework for ranching across the country.
The lawmaker, who is Vice Chairman of the Senate Committee on Environment, said the legislation is aimed at promoting modern livestock farming, curbing open grazing, and enhancing food security.
He added that the Bill provides for state-level approvals for land allocation, environmental sustainability in ranch projects, and transparent funding management, primarily through public-private partnerships.
It also outlines the establishment of a dedicated Ranch Management and Development Agency responsible for regulatory oversight, compliance enforcement, and implementation of sustainable ranching practices.
It will address conflict resolution mechanisms to mediate disputes among stakeholders, while ensuring compliance with stringent environmental and socio-economic guidelines,” Nwoko said.
Nwoko, who also chairs the Senate Committee on Reparations and Repatriation, noted that the Bill would regulate ranching operations and related activities to prevent and resolve conflicts arising from open grazing, particularly those between farmers and herders.
He stressed that the legislation would modernise livestock farming through the creation of legally recognised ranches, while fostering cooperation between federal, state, and local governments in implementing ranching projects.
The Bill also seeks to:
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Protect the rights of individuals, communities, and stakeholders in the allocation and use of land for ranching in line with the Land Use Act and other laws.
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Advance environmental sustainability by ensuring compliance with prescribed standards.
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Provide for livestock welfare, health, and disease control in line with veterinary laws.
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Facilitate dispute resolution through statutory processes.
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Create an enabling environment for private sector participation through incentives and partnerships.
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Ensure equitable compensation and resettlement for affected communities.
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Promote economic development and job creation through ranching integration into local economies.
