The Minister of Livestock Development, Idi Mukhtar Maiha, led a three-day delegation to Plateau State to improve collaboration on livestock in alignment with the Federal Government’s livestock growth acceleration strategy.

During a visit, the Minister expressed his sympathy to Plateau State Governor Caleb Mutfwang regarding recent killings and affirmed the Ministry’s dedication to modernising Nigerian livestock production, according to a statement by the Director of Information and Public Relations, Ben. Bem Goong, on Wednesday.

Maiha also acknowledged the National Economic Council’s (NEC) support for the recently approved National Livestock Growth Acceleration Strategy, which is expected to grow the sector’s value from $32 billion to $74 billion by 2035.

He briefed the Governor on key Federal Government initiatives, including establishing the Federal Ministry of Livestock Development on June 4, 2024. He outlined plans for genetically upgrading livestock for improved yield and expanding feed and fodder systems to combat undernutrition and boost animal health.

Other cardinal pillars for the livestock sector transformation are disease control and veterinary health infrastructure, as well as rehabilitation of Nigeria’s 417 grazing reserves, with the Wase Grazing Reserve in Plateau set to serve as a pilot model.

Maiha emphasised Plateau’s strategic importance. It is Nigeria’s historic home of livestock development, with institutions such as the National Veterinary Research Institute (NVRI) operating for over a century.

He further announced plans to partner with the Plateau State Government to launch a Model Livestock Village, which will include pasture fields and dry-season irrigation dams, a veterinary clinic, primary healthcare, educational facilities, milk collection and processing centers for dairy value chains, and residential housing for livestock keepers.

“This model will become a blueprint for collaboration between the Federal Ministry and other subnational governments. Our vision is to transform livestock production into a driver of economic growth, food security, and job creation for millions,” the Minister added.

The Governor of Plateau State commended the Honourable Minister for his passion and commitment, stating, “You are not a Minister looking for food to eat, but one creating food for Nigeria. The roadmap you’ve unveiled assures us of economic growth, peace, and opportunity. Plateau is ready to partner fully in this transformation journey.”

Governor Mutfwang praised technical experts and announced Plateau’s modern Jos Abattoir, which will have a 500-cow daily capacity. The Minister of Agriculture and Food Security visited the Gbong Gwom Jos, emphasizing stakeholder engagement. 

The Gbong Gwom thanked the President for the Ministry, expressed optimism for food security and economic growth, and invited the Minister to the Animal Cultural Festival. The Minister then met with livestock stakeholders, including NASHGODAN, poultry, pig farmers, butchers, pastoral groups, and civil society organizations.

The speaker emphasized the pivotal role of the livestock sector in fostering job creation, promoting peace, and driving national economic growth. He asserted the Ministry’s unwavering commitment to collaborating with all relevant stakeholders to achieve this goal.

Attendees at the discussions included Dr. Kingsley Uzoma, representing the Vice President’s office, alongside key figures from the Ministry of Livestock Development. Directors within the Ministry, heads of various agencies operating under its supervision, and Special Assistants to the Minister and the President were also present.

Notably, Baba Othman Ngelzarma, the President of the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association (MACBAN), participated in the engagements, advocating for peaceful coexistence and cooperation among diverse communities within Plateau State. His presence underscored the importance of inclusive dialogue in addressing the multifaceted challenges and opportunities within the livestock sector and its impact on regional inter-community relations.

Source: The Authority News

Image Credit: Leadership News