Agriculture
The Nigerian Federal Government has selected Kwara State as the pilot for its national ranching policy, aiming to modernize the livestock sector, enhance productivity, and mitigate farmer–herder conflicts. The announcement was made by Minister of Livestock Development, Idi Mukhtar Maiha, in Ilorin during a stakeholders' meeting. Kwara will trial the initiative, which includes infrastructure development to settle nomadic herders and increase productivity. The discussions with Kwara's government include establishing feedlots and encouraging small-scale ranching. Minister Maiha highlights economic prospects, such as fodder production for export, and calls for a broader adoption of small-scale livestock farming. He underscores the need for sector reforms to formalize businesses and harness the existing potential within poultry and honey production. The initiative is backed by Kwara State, vowing support for farmers through training, improved inputs, and sustainable practices. The approach intends to shift the narrative from conflict towards increased agricultural productivity and youth empowerment.