President Bola Tinubu has given insight into his thought process that led to the creation of the Ministry of Livestock Development, which Meteor Nigeria reported on Tuesday.
The president also explained why he asked the chairman of the Renewed Hope Livestock Reform Implementation Committee, former Governor of Kano State, Umar Ganduje, to hand over to the former chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Professor Attahiru Jega.
The president spoke at the Presidential Villa in Abuja on Tuesday during an event where he announced the creation of the ministry.
Acknowledging the efforts of Ganduje in convening the National Conference on Livestock Reforms, he said he decided that Jega should take over so that the committee would not be associated with politics.
Ganduje, a two-term governor of Kano, is also the Chairman of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
The president said, “Let me take advantage of those who are present here to thank former the executive governor of Kano State and the chairman of All Progressives Congress, Alhaji Abdullahi Ganduje for assembling the best minds and experts to find solutions convening the National conference on livestock’s reforms and litigation of associate conflicts in Nigeria in February last year.”
However, Tinubu called for united efforts devoid of partisan politics, urging Ganduje to step down as committee chairman to ensure political neutrality.
“At this junction, I will appeal to remove every state of partisan politics from it (the committee),” the president said. “…ask Dr. Ganduje to just remove himself so that anything of politics in this environment will be erased completely.
“This is not about politics; this is an opportunity and it is about our Nation. So, while I may be absent, Jaga will preside and continue to promote it. Assume the chairmanship of the committee as the president and appoint Professor Tairu Jaga as deputy or co-chair.
Tinubu highlighted the pivotal role of livestock farming, dairy production, and efficient cold chain logistics in bolstering Nigeria’s agricultural productivity and ensuring food security.
He emphasised the economic benefits of these sectors, including job creation and export opportunities, while stressing the importance of reducing food waste and maintaining food quality from farm to market.
He said, “We have addressed the problem and identified a successful mode of livestock management practised in other countries and climates, which has significantly boosted economies and empowered ordinary people.
“The traditional livestock system must be reformed to significantly contribute to Nigeria’s social, and economic growth and development. We will utilize all available measures for this purpose.
“I assure you and the Nigerian public that seizing this economic opportunity, establishing recommended ranches, and promoting this initiative are essential.
“Fortunately, we now have access to information and technology that allows cows to be identified with chips and tracked. We are fully prepared to utilize these advancements.
“From the outset, I emphasised that the solution is here, and we must act on it together. Governors represented here, any laws inhibiting the promotion and realization of our objectives will receive priority attention from the Attorney General.
“Budget and economic planning officials are urged to allocate necessary funds for this initiative, with the finance department ready to facilitate financial arrangements.
“Together, we will achieve our goals for a prosperous livestock sector in Nigeria.”
The president expressed gratitude the committee for assembling experts whose recommendations influenced the formation of the presidential committee.
Tinubu stressed the need for modernising Nigeria’s traditional livestock management practices, citing successful models from other countries.
He said, “When you have such a great opportunity, why should Nigeria continue in conflict? To the esteemed individuals present here, this also presents a unique opportunity to delineate and establish a separate ministry called ‘The Ministry of Livestock Development’. This will give people the opportunity to excel.
“Our veterinarians can lead us to the next level, fostering breeding and cross-breeding while curbing the rampant killings and theft of animals. This sector holds immense economic potential, ladies and gentlemen.
“I hereby inaugurate ‘The Renew Hope Livestock Reform Implementation Committee in Nigeria’. “It is now in your hands. Be prepared to work for the success of this program and for the prosperity of our entire nation. Together, we will present a Nigeria flag without blemishes to our children.”
