Nigeria: Miyetti Allah celebrates creation of Livestock Ministry

President Bola Tinubu has announced the creation of a Ministry for Livestock Development, an initiative that has been met with enthusiastic approval from the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN).

In a recent interview on Channels Television’s Sunrise Daily programme, MACBAN President Baba Othman-Ngelzarma expressed profound gratitude to President Tinubu for the timely establishment of this specialized ministry.

“For establishing this ministry at the right time when we need it more than any other time, we commend the President,” Othman-Ngelzarma stated. He went on to highlight the association’s long-standing advocacy for such a ministry, describing the announcement as a moment of renewed hope under President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

“This is what we have been agitating for and today, we have it. We are so excited and very happy. Our hope has been renewed,” Othman-Ngelzarma added, reflecting the collective sentiment of the herders’ community.

The MACBAN leader underscored the untapped potential of Nigeria’s livestock sector, contrasting it with the more developed livestock industries of neighboring countries. He expressed optimism that the new ministry would unlock the economic potential of the sector, creating jobs and enhancing the livelihoods of many Nigerians.

Othman-Ngelzarma elaborated on the anticipated benefits, emphasizing that the ministry would bring about significant improvements in various aspects of the livestock industry, including production, processing, transportation, and management.

Additionally, he pointed out the crucial security dimension that the ministry would address, aiming to mitigate the longstanding conflicts between pastoralists and farmers.

The announcement took place at the Council Chamber in Abuja, where President Tinubu articulated his vision for the new ministry. He emphasized that the initiative is expected to resolve the perennial clashes between pastoralists and farmers, fostering a more harmonious and productive agricultural environment.

However, the creation of the new ministry has generated mixed reactions across the country. While some stakeholders argue that the existing Ministry of Agriculture could suffice, others believe that a dedicated ministry is essential for addressing the unique challenges and opportunities within the livestock sector.

Concerns about increased governance costs have also been raised, but proponents argue that the long-term economic benefits will outweigh the initial expenses.