By Raphael Jackson

The Federal Ministry of Livestock Development officially welcomed its new Minister, Alhaji Idi Muktar Maiha, during a resumption ceremony held at Shagari House, Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation.

The event marked a significant milestone in Nigeria’s efforts to modernize and revitalize its livestock sector.

Dr. (Mrs.) Chinyere Akujobi, the Permanent Secretary of the ministry, delivered the welcome address, highlighting the critical role of the newly created Federal Ministry of Livestock Development in addressing longstanding challenges in the sector.

The ministry was established on July 9, 2024, by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to foster sustainable growth and resolve sectoral bottlenecks.

“The creation of this ministry is a strategic move aimed at addressing the numerous obstacles that have hindered the growth of the livestock sector in our country,” Dr. Akujobi said.

Mandates of the Ministry

Dr. Akujobi outlined the ministry’s core mandates, which include:

1. Formulating and implementing livestock development and animal health policies.

2. Developing grazing reserves, ranches, pastoral welfare initiatives, and conflict mitigation strategies.

3. Establishing efficient national animal health management services, incorporating the One Health approach.

4. Developing infrastructure to support the livestock sector’s sustainable growth.

5. Promoting public-private partnerships and investments in the livestock industry.

The Permanent Secretary emphasized the importance of collaboration, innovation, and resilience in tackling challenges facing the sector. She underscored the ministry’s role in creating jobs, improving livelihoods, reducing farmer-herder conflicts, and enhancing Nigeria’s global competitiveness.

“This is a renewed focus on transforming the livestock sector into an economically viable industry. Together, we will work to ensure a new dawn in livestock development,” she said.

Dr. Akujobi expressed confidence in the leadership and vision of the new Minister, Alhaji Idi Muktar Maiha, to drive meaningful progress. “Under the Minister’s guidance, we aim to address the technical, social, and economic bottlenecks hindering the sector’s growth,” she noted.

The event concluded with Dr. Akujobi extending a warm welcome to the Minister. She called for collective efforts to support the Minister’s leadership in advancing the livestock industry and ensuring its contribution to Nigeria’s economic growth.

Alhaji Idi Muktar Maiha is expected to lead the charge in implementing policies and initiatives that will transform Nigeria’s livestock sector into a sustainable and investment-attractive industry.

The ceremony was attended by directors of the ministry, heads of parastatals, development partners, civil society representatives, and members of the press.

Minister Idi Mukhtar