FROM RURAL GRAZING AREA (RUGA) TO NATIONAL LIVESTOCK TRANSFORMATION PLAN (NLTP): A MERE CHANGE OF NAME OR REINCARNATION 1
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Date
2024-11
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Publisher
Lapai Journal of Nigeria History
Abstract
Political and social instability in numerous African countries has exacerbated conflicts,
particularly between farmers and herders, driven by resource competition and environmental
degradation. In Nigeria, the escalation of farmer-herder conflict has led to widespread
displacement, increased food prices and security challenges. Government interventions such as
the Rural Grazing Area (RUGA) and National Livestock Transformation Plan (NLTP) policies
have faced scrutiny, prompting a comparative analysis to evaluate their effectiveness and public
reception. This study examines the RUGA policy and its alternative, the NLTP, in Nigeria using
historical methodology and secondary data, including interviews and national newspapers.
RUGA policy was introduced in 2018 to mitigate farmer-herder conflicts; the policy encountered
significant opposition due to perceived socio-political implications and a lack of stakeholder
consultation. It is argued that it favoured the Fulani ethnic group and could exacerbate ethnic
tensions, eliciting mixed public reactions. In contrast, the NLTP aimed to modernise livestock
management and enhance productivity through a phased transition from open grazing to
ranching. Despite its comprehensive approach focusing on stakeholder engagement, conflict
resolution, humanitarian relief and economic development, the NLTP also faced scepticism, with
some perceiving it as a rebranded RUGA policy. Findings from the study underscored the
significant public debate and resistance both policies generated and emphasised the complexities
of addressing farmer-herder conflicts in Nigeria. The study concludes that inclusiveness of
stakeholder engagement, transparent communication, and addressing underlying socio-political
concerns are necessary. It advocates for a balanced approach to promote sustainable livestock
management practices across ethnic groups.
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