The Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, has called on Nigerians to control livestock movement and adopt ranching as a sustainable solution to recurring farmer–herder clashes.

Speaking on Wednesday in Abuja during a press briefing on the forthcoming Maiden African Chiefs of Defence Staff Conference, scheduled for August 25–27, Musa stressed that ranching would help protect farmlands, reduce tensions, and improve livestock productivity.

He explained that in the past, straying animals were seized and released only after their owners paid fines, a system that helped maintain peace. However, he argued that providing designated areas for livestock—whether called ranches or otherwise would offer a permanent solution.

“If you don’t want to call it ranching, call it something else,” Musa said. “But provide a space where the animals don’t have to roam. It will help us resolve one of the country’s biggest security challenges.”

The CDS added that ranching is not about government land seizure but a viable business opportunity for individuals, communities, and state governments. He suggested that states could establish model ranch farms to encourage adoption.

Beyond addressing farmer–herder conflicts, Musa noted that ranching would make livestock healthier, larger, and more productive. “When animals roam, they waste energy, grow smaller, and produce less milk. Ranching is a win-win for everyone,” he said.

On defence manufacturing, Musa revealed that Nigeria is rebranding its Defence Industries Corporation to standardise equipment production, prevent illicit arms circulation, and harmonise local manufacturing. The country, he said, is procuring armoured vehicles, drones, and other military hardware from local firms such as ProForce and Imperium, while repairing damaged assets to extend their lifespan.

The CDS emphasised that these efforts will not only strengthen national security but also create jobs and open export opportunities to neighbouring African countries.

Highlighting the need for continental cooperation, Musa urged African nations to unite against asymmetric threats through the African Standby Force. The upcoming conference, themed “Combating Contemporary Threats to Peace and Security in Africa”, will bring together representatives from 54 African countries, with over 90 per cent already confirming participation.

“Our goal is to strengthen rapid crisis response capabilities, conduct joint training, enhance intelligence sharing, and develop a unified continental security strategy,” Musa said, while commending President Bola Tinubu for supporting initiatives to improve peace and security both in Nigeria and across Africa.