Tinubu mulls creation of livestock development ministry

President Bola Tinubu has hinted at the possibility of creating a ministry of livestock development.

Tinubu spoke on Tuesday during the inauguration of the presidential committee on livestock reforms.

The president had in September 2023 approved the establishment of the committee to address herders and farmers’ clashes and bolster livestock and dairy industries.

Tinubu set up the committee after receiving a report from the National Conference on Livestock Reforms and Mitigation of Associated Conflicts in Nigeria.

The committee gave the president 21 recommendations, including creating a ministry of livestock resources.

Tinubu will serve as chairman of the committee, while Attahiru Jega, former chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), will serve as his deputy.

Speaking during the inauguration, Tinubu said Nigeria will finally take advantage of livestock farming, as dairy products and cold chain logistics offer substantial commercial and economic advantages.

“We have seen solution and opportunity, with this adversity that has plagued us over the years, and I believe the prosperity is here in your hands,” Tinubu said.

“The dairy industry contributes significantly to nutrition and food security that supply essential proteins and vitamins through the milk and its derivatives such chess, yoghurt, butter and economic advantages.

“Efficient cold-chain, logistics are crucial in maintaining the quality and safety of these perishable goods from farm to market, thereby reducing food waste and ensuring a steady supply.

“This sector will boost agricultural productivity, enhance export opportunities and stimulate economic growth by fostering a robust value chain that benefits farmers, processors, herders, distributors and consumers alike.”

The president appealed that the committee’s responsibility should not be politicised.

“From here, I will appeal to everyone to remove every iota of partisan politics from this. I will assume the chairmanship of the committee as president and appoint Professor Attahiru Jega as my deputy or co-chair,” he said.

“This is not about politics; this is about opportunity. This is about our nation. While I may be absent, Jega will preside and continue to promote our objectives.

“With the calibre of people that are here, this presents a unique opportunity also to delineate and establish a centric ministry called the ministry of livestock development. It will give us the opportunity so that our veterinary doctors can have the necessary access to research and cross-breed. We can stop the wanton killings.”

TINUBU ASKS MINISTRIES TO PARTNER WITH THE COMMITTEE

Tinubu called on the ministry of science and technology to contribute to the success of the committee, adding that herds of cows can be identified with chips and tracked.

“If other technologies are available to us, we are ready to work. As I said from the beginning, with you, all of you, the solution is here and we must run with it,” he said.

The president asked the attorney-general of the federation to resolve any law that might hinder the promotion and actualisation of the committee’s objective.

He called on the ministers of finance and budget and economic planning minister to work towards providing funding for the committee.

“When you have great opportunity as this, why should Nigeria continue in conflict with the calibre of the people that is here,” he said.

Tinubu said his government is ready to work for the success of the committee and the nation.

Editor’s note: This report has been modified to reflect that the president has yet to create the ministry of livestock development