The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), Gen. Christopher Musa, has stated that to end clashes between farmers and herders, Nigerians must regulate the movement of their livestock.
He made this remark on Wednesday while briefing journalists ahead of the Maiden African Chiefs of Defence Staff Summit, scheduled for August 25–27 in Abuja.
Gen. Musa urged Nigerians to adopt ranching as a strategy to enhance security, noting that the traditional understanding between farmers and herders has largely broken down.
“We must stop killing animals. Traditionally, if an animal strayed into a farm, it would be seized, the owner would pay a fine, and the animal would be returned. Following this practice can help maintain peace.
“But it is equally important to establish designated areas where animals can be kept. They fare better on a ranch.
“If you prefer not to call it ranching, call it something else, but ensure there is a place where animals do not need to roam freely.
“I want us as Nigerians to address this issue because farmer-herder conflicts remain a major security challenge,” he added.
The CDS highlighted the benefits of ranching for livestock owners, emphasizing that animals expend less energy, grow larger, and produce more milk when kept in controlled environments rather than roaming freely.
