President Bola Tinubu has announced the creation of the Ministry of Livestock Development, unveiling this new ministry on Tuesday during the inauguration of the presidential committee on livestock reforms.
The announcement came as part of the administration’s broader efforts to address longstanding issues between herders and farmers, and to boost the livestock and dairy industries.
The president indicated that the minister for the newly established ministry will be announced soon.
The establishment of the presidential committee was initially approved by Tinubu on September 14, 2023, following a report from the National Conference on Livestock Reforms and Mitigation of Associated Conflicts in Nigeria. The committee presented 21 recommendations, one of which was the creation of a ministry dedicated to livestock resources.
In his remarks, President Tinubu highlighted the significance of the new ministry and the committee’s role in working alongside the federal ministry of agriculture and food security. Their joint efforts aim to devise lasting solutions to the persistent clashes between farmers and herders, ensuring both security and economic prosperity for all Nigerians.
“The federal government is fully prepared to cover the cost of acquiring land to ensure peaceful co-existence between herders and farmers,” Tinubu stated. He emphasized that the initiative would not only resolve conflicts but also open up numerous opportunities for employment and economic growth.
“These opportunities will provide gainful employment for our veterinary doctors, while opening doors for the private sector as the provision of new educational opportunities for herders and their children emerge. Medical facilities will be established. This is a life-changing opportunity that we have,” he said.
Tinubu envisioned a future where Nigeria could significantly boost its production capabilities: “Imagine us producing enough milk for our school children. Imagine us becoming net exporters of cheese and yoghurt. Imagine us producing the skin massively with a major Nigerian leather industry. Imagine us providing cold storage facilities and employment across the nation.”
