The newly appointed Minister of the Federal Ministry of Livestock Development, Idi Mukhtar Maiha, officially assumed office on November 4, 2024, with a strong commitment to modernizing Nigeria’s livestock sector.

Speaking during his inauguration, Maiha emphasized the critical role of the livestock industry in ensuring food security, rural development, and national cohesion, particularly in addressing conflicts between farmers and herders.

Maiha expressed gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for establishing the ministry and entrusting him with the task of driving reforms in the sector. “This ministry is not just about livestock; it represents a way of life for millions of Nigerians. Our mission is to transform this sector into a sustainable, resilient, and inclusive ecosystem that fosters private sector growth,” he said.

As a practicing livestock farmer, Maiha acknowledged the significant challenges facing the industry, including high feed costs, disease outbreaks, farmer-herder conflicts, aging livestock, and inadequate access to credit and modern technologies. Despite these hurdles, he expressed optimism, stating, “These challenges are not insurmountable. With smart work, collaboration, and innovation, we can unlock the true potential of the livestock sector.”

Maiha outlined several key priorities for the ministry:

1. Empowering Stakeholders: The minister pledged to create an enabling environment for investments and to encourage youth and women’s participation in the livestock value chain.

2. Conflict Resolution: He highlighted the development of grazing reserves as a sustainable solution to farmer-herder clashes.

3. Modernization and Commercialization: The ministry plans to adopt climate-smart farming practices, introduce international husbandry and breeding standards, and improve market access.

4. Animal Health: Recognizing the link between livestock health and public health, Maiha committed to eradicating transboundary animal diseases and improving food safety services.

Maiha also emphasized the importance of collaboration, calling on government institutions, private sector players, research institutions, and development partners to join efforts in transforming the sector.

The minister assured stakeholders of his commitment to open communication, adherence to public service regulations, and the inclusion of diverse ideas and feedback in policymaking.

“I encourage all stakeholders to share their innovations and insights as we shape a future for the livestock sector that we can all be proud of,” he said.

Maiha concluded by thanking the ministry’s staff and the press for their support, expressing optimism about the journey ahead.

“Together, we can take Nigeria’s livestock sector to new heights,” he said, inviting all stakeholders to join hands in building a brighter future for the industry.

In the coming days, the ministry will conduct a thorough assessment of the sector to identify issues and prioritize strategic actions.

Idi Mukhtar