The Federal Government has reiterated its commitment to revamping Nigeria’s livestock sector, valued at N31 trillion, positioning it as a critical driver of economic growth and food security.

The Minister of Livestock Development, Dr. Idi Maiha, made this known during a stakeholders’ engagement held in Ibadan, Oyo State. According to him, the government is taking deliberate steps to modernize the sector by enhancing productivity, strengthening disease control, and expanding market accessibility.

Dr. Maiha emphasized that the nationwide stakeholder engagement is aimed at educating industry players on modern breeding techniques, improved animal health management, and investment opportunities in areas such as dairy processing and animal feed production.

“My visit to Oyo State is part of an ongoing nationwide tour to assess major livestock facilities, including poultry, piggery, sheep, and goat farms. We are also engaging with state governors to identify opportunities for collaboration and scale up livestock production at the sub-national level,” he stated.

The Minister commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for the creation of the Ministry of Livestock Development, calling it a bold and strategic move to address long-standing challenges in the industry.

Senior Special Assistant to the President on Livestock Development, Idris Abiola-Ajimobi, described the engagement as a success, urging industry players to align with the government’s agenda to transform the livestock sector.

Stakeholders welcomed the initiative, highlighting the need for policies that address security concerns and improve access to finance for smallholder livestock farmers. Chairman of the Oyo State All Farmers Association of Nigeria (AFAN), Adewunmi Abass Adekunle, expressed optimism that the government’s efforts would drive sustainable growth.

Alhaji Ibrahim Abubakar, Chairman of the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN) in Oyo State, lauded the government’s proactive approach, emphasizing that proper engagement with stakeholders would help resolve challenges affecting the sector.

With the federal government’s renewed focus on livestock development, industry players remain hopeful that Nigeria will witness a transformative shift that enhances food security, economic growth, and job creation across the country.