MACBAN Moves to End Cattle Movement in Nigerian Cities

The Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN) has admitted that the sight of cattle roaming freely in Nigerian cities is embarrassing and says urgent steps are being taken to address the problem.

MACBAN’s president, Baba Othman, disclosed this during an interview on Arise Television’s Morning Show on Wednesday.

Othman explained that the Sultan of Sokoto, who chairs MACBAN’s Board of Trustees, convened a meeting to discuss the issue.

He acknowledged the growing frustration among urban residents and stressed that the association is working closely with federal ministries to create a solution.

Key points from Othman’s remarks:

• MACBAN recognizes the embarrassment caused by free cattle movement in cities.

• A meeting was held with Abuja herders to understand the root causes.

• A committee has been directed to produce a blueprint for immediate action.

Othman noted that the problem goes beyond livestock control, touching on education and social development.

• Pastoralist children account for nearly 80% of out-of-school children in Nigeria.

• MACBAN is collaborating with the Ministry of Education and the Ministry of Livestock Development to integrate solutions that improve both education and cattle management.

• The association is also part of the National Livestock Transformation Program, chaired by Professor Attahiru Jega, which is working on long-term reforms.

A Coordinated Approach

According to Othman, the collaboration between stakeholders is meant to:

• Regulate and modernize the cattle production system

• Reduce the disruptive presence of livestock in cities

• Support education initiatives for pastoralist communities

• Strengthen livestock transformation policies nationwide