In a strategic move to address the persistent conflicts between farmers and herders, President Bola Tinubu has announced the creation of the Ministry of Livestock Development. This new ministry was unveiled during the inauguration of the Renewed Hope Livestock Reform Implementation Committee, which aims to tackle the longstanding issues within the livestock sector.
The inauguration ceremony saw the presence of key government officials, including Vice President Kashim Shettima, Secretary to the Government of the Federation George Akume, Chief of Staff to the President Femi Gbajabiamila, and other prominent cabinet members.
The establishment of this ministry follows President Tinubu's approval in September 2023 of a Presidential Committee dedicated to reforming the livestock industry. This decision was influenced by recommendations from the National Conference on Livestock Reforms and Mitigation of Associated Conflicts in Nigeria.
The move also comes in response to calls from the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN). Alhaji Baba Usman Ngelzarma, the president of MACBAN, had urged the president to create a dedicated ministry for livestock to comprehensively address the sector's value chain issues. Ngelzarma emphasized that a holistic approach, rather than fragmented efforts like separate bills for Animal Husbandry or Ranching, would be more effective in resolving production, processing, marketing, transportation, and security issues.
This new ministry is expected to play a crucial role in bringing long-term solutions to the recurring clashes between herders and farmers, ensuring a more sustainable and peaceful coexistence.
