President Bola Tinubu has urged herders across the country to abandon open grazing, hand over illegal weapons, and adopt ranching as part of a national strategy aimed at resolving violent clashes between farming communities and herders.
In a statement on Wednesday, the President explained that the Federal Government is prioritizing modern livestock management to curb recurring conflicts that have led to deaths and instability in parts of the North and Middle Belt.
According to him, ranching offers a sustainable alternative that promotes peaceful coexistence and national security.
“Ranching is now the path forward for sustainable livestock farming and national harmony,” Tinubu said.
The call came amid rising security concerns, including recent mass kidnappings in Niger and Kebbi states, and continued communal clashes in the North Central region.
Tinubu asked herder associations to work with the newly established Ministry of Livestock to advance modern livestock production and end practices that have fueled disputes over land and grazing routes.
He also appealed to religious centers in vulnerable regions to collaborate with security agencies to enhance safety during worship gatherings.
The President stressed that farmer–herder clashes are a major contributor to nationwide unrest, driven largely by land pressure, illegal arms circulation, and outdated grazing methods.
He added that the Federal Government, in partnership with state governments, would create frameworks to develop ranches and enforce policies against the spread of illegal weapons.
Meanwhile, the Edo State Government has stepped up security operations following threats from a self-proclaimed bandit in the Edo Central Senatorial District. A statement from the office of the governor announced increased surveillance and the recent arrest of two suspected kidnappers after intelligence-led operations in Ovia North-East.
The state government urged residents to stay alert but avoid spreading misinformation, assuring the public that safety remains a top priority.
