The Delta State Government has vowed to strictly enforce its Anti-Open Grazing Law, citing open grazing as the greatest obstacle to agricultural development in the state. The state’s Commissioner for Agriculture and Natural Resources, Mr. Val Arenyeka, made this declaration during a press briefing in Asaba, underscoring the urgency of addressing the issue to safeguard food security.
Arenyeka stressed that the continuous practice of open grazing has wreaked havoc on farms across the state, disrupting agricultural progress and posing a significant risk to farmers’ livelihoods. “Open grazing is the greatest problem we are facing in agriculture, and until we solve it, moving forward will be a significant challenge. We believe that open grazing is a crime, and we have a law against it,” Arenyeka asserted.
With Governor Sheriff Oborevwori at the helm, Delta State is determined to clamp down on this illegal practice to create a safe and productive environment for agriculture to flourish. The commissioner assured farmers that the government will take all necessary measures to protect their farms and ensure their safety.
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In a bid to provide sustainable solutions, Arenyeka revealed plans to transition herders from open grazing to ranching, offering land for the establishment of ranches. He highlighted that this move will not only reduce tensions but also improve food security in the state. “By encouraging ranching, we will take a major step towards resolving food insecurity. Agriculture is everybody’s business,” he said.
The government is also promoting homestead farming and supporting professional farmers with essential inputs and seedlings to boost agricultural productivity across Delta State.
