The Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) is committed to livestock production to boost food security and promote sustainable agricultural development in the territory.
The FCT Minister of State, Dr. Mariya Mahmoud announced this at the 2025 National Pasture Planting Day, which took place at the Kawu Grazing Reserve in the Bwari Area Council, Abuja, on Thursday, August 14,2025.
The pasture planting initiative comes amid a rise in conflicts between farmers and herders in some parts of the territory.
According to the minister, pasture farming is a strategic way to address these disputes.
According to her,”planting is more than just a farming activity; it is a crucial intervention to ensure a year-round supply of quality feed for livestock. This will reduce overgrazing and land degradation and support a shift toward more modern, settled livestock systems. “
The minister said the efforts would increase productivity, prevent conflicts, and foster peaceful coexistence.
She described the Kawu Grazing Reserve as a strategic agricultural asset with the potential to be a model for other states.
“By enhancing pasture management, improving water infrastructure, and expanding veterinary services, the reserve could boost milk and meat production, create jobs, and support harmonious relations in rural communities,” the minister added.
Mahmoud praised the Federal Ministry of Livestock Development for leading the initiative and acknowledged the dedication of farmers, herders, and development partners.
She noted that the event “underscores President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s proactive approach to overcoming challenges in the livestock sector, particularly the consistent availability of quality animal feed, positioning Nigeria toward a more modern, productive, and profitable livestock value chain.”
The Minister of Livestock Development,Alhaji Idi Mukhtar Maiha, added that the event represents the “sowing of a vision” for sustainable livestock development, environmental stewardship, peaceful pastoral practices, and economic empowerment.
He revealed that the ministry is investing in the release and registration of new pasture varieties, with eight varieties released for the first time in 48 years.
Maiha affirmed the administration’s commitment to implementing the National Livestock Growth Association Strategy and other policies that promote peace and productivity.
He urged communities to collaborate with the government to make the grazing reserves successful.
