Senator Ned Nwoko (APC-Delta North) has proposed a Bill before the Senate to establish and manage ranches in all 774 local government areas (LGAs) and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) as a measure to modernise livestock farming and enhance food security in Nigeria.

Speaking with the News Agency of Nigeria on Monday, Nwoko said the legislation, 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 create a legal framework for state-managed ranching projects across the country.

According to the lawmaker, the Bill proposes the establishment of a dedicated Ranch Management and Development Agency to oversee regulatory compliance, enforce sustainable practices, and resolve disputes among stakeholders.

“It will address conflict resolution mechanisms to mediate disputes while ensuring compliance with stringent environmental and socio-economic guidelines,” he said.
Nwoko noted that the legislation also provides for state-level approvals for land allocation, transparent management of funding primarily through public-private partnerships, and the regulation of ranching operations to prevent and mitigate conflicts between farmers and herders.

“It will promote modern livestock farming through dedicated and legally recognised ranches, facilitate cooperation between federal, state, and local governments, and protect the rights of individuals and communities in land acquisition for ranching purposes,” he added.

The Bill includes provisions to ensure environmental sustainability, livestock health and disease control, private sector participation in ranch development, and financial incentives to support ranch operations. It also outlines mechanisms for equitable compensation and resettlement of affected communities.

Senator Nwoko, who serves as vice chairperson of the Senate Committee on Environment and chairperson of the Senate Committee on Reparations and Repatriation, emphasized that the legislation aims to integrate ranching into local economies, creating employment opportunities while enhancing national food security.