The National Assembly Joint Committee on Livestock Development has deemed the N11.8 billion budget proposed for the Federal Ministry of Livestock Development insufficient for its effective establishment and operations.

The budget breakdown, part of the 2025 Appropriation Bill, allocates N10 billion for capital expenditures and N1.8 billion for overhead costs. However, legislators and stakeholders expressed concerns that the amount is inadequate to address the ministry’s foundational needs.

During the budget defense session, Minister of Livestock Development, Mr. Idi Maiha, presented the ministry’s challenges, citing the lack of permanent office space, essential equipment, and operational facilities. Currently, the ministry operates from a temporary location provided by the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF). Discussions with the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister are underway to secure a permanent office.

“The allocated funds are insufficient to address the yearnings of Nigerians and the critical needs of the ministry,” noted Rep. Wale Raji, Chairman of the House of Representatives Committee on Livestock Development. He urged the ministry to submit a supplementary budget proposal to align with its operational mandate.

Senator Musa Mustapha, Chairman of the Senate Committee on Livestock, emphasized the need for the ministry to provide progress updates to enable necessary interventions. He reassured stakeholders of the committee’s commitment to supporting the ministry in achieving its objectives.

Despite the budgetary constraints, Minister Maiha expressed optimism, stating that the allocation provides a foundation for the ministry’s operations. He highlighted plans for distributing capital projects across geopolitical zones based on specific needs, which are expected to attract local and international investments. Additionally, the ministry intends to launch a comprehensive awareness campaign to promote its activities and objectives.

The committee concluded by urging the ministry to consolidate its financial needs and resubmit them as a supplementary budget, promising expedited approval to ensure the ministry’s success in addressing climate change, livestock production, and other pressing challenges in the sector.