Cross River State Government has intensified efforts to position the state as a major livestock production and export destination following its partnership with the Federal Ministry of Livestock Development.
The collaboration was highlighted during the commissioning of Nigeria’s first Livestock Control Post and Guarantee Facility at Mfum in Ikom Local Government Area.
Governor Bassey Otu, represented by Deputy Governor Rt. Hon. Peter Odey, said the state was ready to work with the Federal Government to unlock opportunities in livestock production and export.
He noted that Cross River was attracting investors to the Obudu Ranch as part of efforts to develop the livestock value chain.
According to him, the ranch is being transformed into a world-class destination for agriculture and tourism.
Otu disclosed that the cargo airport near Obudu Ranch had reached about 85 per cent completion, with the first aircraft expected to land in December 2026.
He added that regular flights from Abuja and Lagos to the Obudu airport corridor would commence in the first quarter of 2027.
The governor said the airport would ease the export of livestock and agricultural products to international markets.
He also highlighted Cross River’s strategic access to the Gulf of Guinea through Calabar, describing it as a major advantage for trade and investment.
Otu assured the ministry of the state’s full support and pledged continued engagement with livestock and poultry farmers.
Speaking earlier, Minister of Livestock Development, Hon. Idi Mukhtar Maiha, described the Mfum facility as a critical project for protecting Nigeria’s livestock industry.
ALSO READ: Naira weakens against dollar at official FX market
He said the facility, the first of 12 planned along Nigeria’s international borders, would ensure only healthy animals enter the country.
Maiha explained that the control post would help curb the spread of transboundary animal diseases and strengthen livestock trade.
The minister said his visit would also include inspection of the Obudu Ranch and other livestock facilities to attract investors.
He disclosed plans to establish a modern abattoir ecosystem in Cross River, noting that a 500-head-per-day facility could create about 10,000 jobs across the livestock value chain.
Maiha said Cross River possesses the infrastructure and coastal advantage needed to become a leading red meat production and export hub in the South-South region.
WATCH TOP VIDEOS FROM NIGERIAN TRIBUNE TV