New Ministry of Livestock Development Aims to Resolve Farmer-Herder Clashes
President Bola Tinubu has announced the creation of the Ministry of Livestock Development, aiming to resolve the ongoing clashes between herders and crop farmers that have resulted in significant loss of life and property across Nigeria.
During the inauguration of the “Renewed Hope Livestock Reform Implementation Committee” at the State House in Abuja, Tinubu emphasized the need for a separate ministry to develop the livestock sector and provide economic opportunities. He highlighted the potential for veterinary doctors to enhance livestock breeding and reduce conflicts through innovative practices.
The new ministry was established based on recommendations from a presidential panel on livestock industry reform set up in September 2023. Tinubu underscored the importance of adopting ranching practices to transform the traditional livestock system, adding sustainable value to Nigeria’s socio-economic development.
“I assure you and the Nigerian public that we need to create this economy and seize this opportunity,” Tinubu stated. “These ranches you recommend will be implemented, and with modern technology, we can track and manage livestock efficiently.”
Tinubu appointed former Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) Chairman, Professor Attahiru Jega, as deputy and co-chair of the committee, while he himself will serve as chairman. He thanked Abdullahi Ganduje, the national chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), for assembling the reform panel and requested Ganduje to step down to prevent politicizing the committee.
Tinubu emphasized the need to prioritize livestock farming, which offers substantial commercial and economic advantages. He urged relevant government officials to support the initiative by ensuring adequate budget allocation and legal frameworks.
In conclusion, Tinubu called for collective efforts to transform Nigeria’s livestock sector, highlighting its potential to create jobs, enhance food security, and stimulate economic growth through a robust value chain benefiting all stakeholders.
