The federal government says Strategic plans are on the pipeline to revive grazing reserves in the country to make them more useful to pastoralists.
Nigeria’s Minister of Livestock Development Idi Muktar Maiha stated this during the 5th International Conference on DryLands organized by The Centre for DryLand Agriculture CDA Bayero University Kano BUK.
Represented by his special Assistant Dr. Eustace Iyayi, the minister informed the participants that range lands are vital to livestock development and contribute to Nigeria’s economy.
The minister explained that, that the federal government will ensure the revitalization of the reserves by resuscitating facilities necessary to provide feeds and water for the livestock.
The Director CDA BUK Professor Jibrin Jibrin pointed out that the theme resonates with the global momentum surrounding the United Nations’ declaration of 2026 as the International Year of Range lands and Pastoralists (IYRP).
This he explained, calls for decisive action and synergy on in safeguarding the future of the neglected ecosystems.
Professor Jibrin believed that, through partnerships with governments, international institutions, NGOs, and communities, the CDA is currently leading efforts to generate knowledge-based solutions for food and nutrition, security, climate resilience, natural resource management, and sustainable livelihoods.
According to Professor Jibrin, the degradation of range lands and the vulnerability of pastoralist communities in the face of climate change, insecurity, desertification, and marginalization call for action to address the vulnerability.
“In many dryland areas, the convergence of ecological fragility, violent conflict, and institutional neglect has created a crisis that demands an urgent and coordinated response”.
The Vice Chancellor of Bayero University, BUK, Professor Sangir Abbas, represented by the Deputy Vice Chancellor Academic, Professor Haruna Musa, expressed confidence that the high-level policy dialogues, exhibitions, and field visits will spark new ideas, strengthen networks, and generate solutions for future DryLands opportunities.
“I encourage you to take full advantage of the opportunities for learning and collaboration that this conference offers.”
Professor John Marton from Greenwich University, United Kingdom made a presentation on Pastoralists Research and it’s impact: some Reflections for the international year of Ranger lands and Pastoralism.
There were panel discussion who shared ideas on the potentials to range lands.
Khadijah Aliyu
