The Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN) has outlined its position on the proposed ban on herders from grazing within the central areas of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja, by the new FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike.
In response to this development, the President of the Miyetti Allah group, Baba Ngelzarma, explained that they have a pre-existing agreement with the federal government not to allow grazing of cattle in areas covered by the Abuja masterplan, encompassing regions from Area 1 to Area 11 in Garki, Wuse Zone 1 to Zone 7, Maitama, and Asokoro within the central area. Ngelzarma expressed concern over the sight of cows roaming the main city and affirmed the association’s support for Wike’s plan to address this issue.
He stated, “Whoever is allowed to be caught rearing his cattle in the main city is on his own, whoever is allowed to be caught, the law should take its course, this is because we have severally discussed and drawn the attention of the pastoralist.”
However, Ngelzarma highlighted challenges faced by herders due to encroachment by farmers on grazing reserves outside Abuja, which were designated for herding purposes. He urged the FCT Minister to prioritize the development of these grazing reserves, creating a model for pastoralist settlements that can serve as an example for other governors to follow.
Furthermore, Ngelzarma emphasized the potential for revenue generation and improved security by harnessing the livestock sector, as well as his confidence in Minister Wike’s ability to bring about these changes. He remarked, “We are looking at him as somebody who can transform the livestock sector into a beneficial sector for the government and the pastoralist. This is because we see him as a bulldozer that intends and does what is necessary for development.”