AN ETHICAL PERSPECTIVE TO OPEN CATTLE MOVEMENT AND GRAZING IN NIGERIA

By

Mark Omorovie Ikeke

Department of Religious Studies and Philosophy

Delta State University, Abraka, Nigeria

Abstract

A healthy environment is crucial to the well-being of any nation. Open cattle movement and grazing remains a serious problem in Nigeria in the light of ethical concerns, and is a threat to a healthy environment.  It poses many challenges and issues for the country, such as health hazards, and environmental damage. If the environment suffers from degradation and pollution, human and public health are endangered. The issue of open cattle grazing and movement should not only be discussed in economic, political, or cultural terms. It should also be examined from an ethical perspective. Ethics concerns human behaviours regarding other humans and non-human beings.  Open grazing and movement of cattle in Nigeria pose serious risks, and endanger human welfare and wellbeing. This paper examines open cattle movement and grazing in Nigeria. The paper argues that the open movement of cattle and grazing threaten the environment and all that is related to environmental well-being. The paper finds that open grazing and cattle movement is common in Nigeria, and this has destroyed lives and properties, and endangered the society. The paper concludes that alternative cattle grazing methods that do not endanger society can boost and enhance social welfare and well-being.