The Nigerian government is implementing a ranching system to reduce conflicts in livestock farming.

Minister of Livestock Development Idi Mukhtar Maiha announced plans to rehabilitate 417 grazing lands across the country. As part of a pilot project in Plateau State, a new production model is being tested, which is intended to reduce the need for nomadic livestock grazing. Benue, Plateau, Nasarawa, Kaduna, Adamawa states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) have been selected as priority intervention zones, as these are areas where clashes between farmers and livestock herders have historically occurred most frequently.

According to the ministry's position, the traditional method of livestock herding is no longer sustainable due to the expansion of agricultural areas, urbanization, and land scarcity. The authorities propose a transition to keeping animals on specially equipped ranches, where all necessary conditions will be created: from a feed base to veterinary clinics and infrastructure facilities, including solar power plants and irrigation systems. It is expected that such centers will become full-fledged economic hubs, attracting enterprises for milk processing and meat production.

To transition to the new model, the government is holding consultations with representatives of pastoral communities, including cooperation with Miyetti Allah leaders. In addition to creating ranches, the strategy includes the introduction of a radio frequency identification system for animals using ear tags. This will allow for the formation of a national database, simplifying livestock accounting and the fight against cattle rustling.

The ministry is also working on the development of supporting infrastructure. Seven model veterinary clinics have already been built in the country, the development of "cold chain" systems for vaccine storage is underway, and the commercial cultivation of forage crops is being incentivized. Furthermore, the government is exploring opportunities for expanding the poultry and dairy sectors by attracting local and foreign investors. These measures are being implemented by the ministry, which was established in July 2024, with the support of President Bola Tinubu.