From Abuja, Kenneth Udeh
The Senate has said that the creation of the Federal Ministry for Livestock Development by the Tinubu-led administration will put an end to the persistent farmer-herder crisis in the country.
According to the lawmakers, livestock is capable of surpassing oil as Nigeria’s major revenue earner if Nigerians are properly informed about the untapped investment opportunities in the sector.
Urging an end to tribal and religious stereotyping of the sector, the lawmakers held that the business of livestock rearing should not be perceived as a “Fulani”-dominated enterprise but rather an investment opportunity open to every Nigerian.
This was stated on Tuesday during the maiden meeting of the Senate Committee on Livestock Development, chaired by Senator Musa Mustapha (APC, Yobe East).
Despite the enormous investment opportunities in the sector, Musa lamented that the lack of public orientation has inhibited livestock development, which has also led to recurring farmer-herder conflicts.
He said: “The livestock sector is a vital component of our national economy, providing employment, income, and food security for millions of Nigerians.
“However, the sector faces numerous challenges, including inadequate infrastructure, limited access to finance, and insufficient technical and managerial expertise.”
Musa highlighted that the committee will focus on promoting the growth and development of the livestock sector, improving animal health systems, facilitating conflict resolution, and enhancing market access and value addition.
Outlining the mandate of the committee, Musa stressed that they will engage with the Federal Ministry for Livestock and relevant stakeholders across the livestock value chain, including farmers, processors, traders, and consumers.
He said: “Our committee will focus on several key areas, including livestock production and productivity, animal health systems, conflict resolution, climate-smart livestock production, innovation and technology, market access and value addition, including youth and women participation.”
In their contributions, members of the committee agreed to invite the Livestock Minister in order to interact with the ministry to understand their plans and goals for the sector. The lawmakers also underscored the need to embark on oversight visits to institutions of livestock in the country and to engage with critical stakeholders.
Senator Orji Uzor Kalu (APC, Abia North) said that if properly harnessed, livestock can surpass Nigeria’s oil revenue.
“It is a good opportunity for Nigeria. It is not about religion; we can make more money from livestock than oil. We need to sit with the Minister and understand his programmes, which will determine our direction as a committee,” Kalu said.
Senator Babangida Hussaini (APC, Jigawa North West) advocated for the committee to visit livestock development institutions like the National Animal Production Research Institute (NAPRI).
“They have excellent facilities, and they have suffered neglect. Going to the field will give a clear understanding of what Nigeria needs. Countries like Brazil and South Africa depend heavily on this sector,” Hussaini said.