FG seeks youth supports on grazing reserve policy

THE Federal Government at the weekend, canvassed for the supports of Nigerian youths on the proposed grazing reserve policy.

The proposed programme it said was to address the incessant clashes between herdsmen and local farmers which have degenerated into social tension and threat to national peace and security.

Youth and Sports Minister, Mr Solomon Dalung, stated this in Abuja when he received the Executive members of the Nigeria Youth Parliament -NYP led by the Parliament's Speaker -Rt Honourable Ayotunde Obe in his office.

As against speculations, he said the proposed programme for establishment of grazing reserve and ranches across the country will not handover lands to Fulani herdsmen.


He explained that the FG will only recruit agronomists, agriculturists and other professionals who will be charged with not only planting grasses but maintain them to ensure there is pasture all year round for cattle rearers.

According to the minister, establishment of such policy, is the modern practice in both developed and developing economies citing United States, Brazil and South Africa as instances.

"Most countries in the world today that are doing well in animal husbandry have since jettisoned nomadic mode of animal husbandry."

Consequently, he challenged the youths to reach out to their counterparts in the creeks;"who today are on war path either because they do not like or understand some government actions or under influence of vested interests as a result of which they have taken to vandalisation of oil facilities and destruction of gas pipe lines."

He said the facilities that were being destroyed are national assets that form part of the heritage that belong to youth as future leaders of the country.

"it's better to dialogue with the government on whatever grievances they may have rather than engaging in sabotage that will worsen the condition they are complaining about."

Earlier, leader of the delegation, Hon Obe explained that the purpose of the visit was to submit the outcome of proceedings and decisions of the third session of the Nigeria Youth Parliament.