Federal Government has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting the livestock sector and ensuring its growth and sustainability for Nigeria’s socio-economic development.
The Minister of Livestock Development, Idi Maiha, made this commitment while declaring open a Leadership Summit of the Nigerian Veterinary Medical Association (NVMA) in Abuja.
Represented by the Chief Veterinary Officer of Nigeria, Dr. Columba Vakuru, the Minister emphasized that one of the significant milestones achieved under the visionary leadership of President Bola Tinubu was the establishment of the new Ministry of Livestock Development.
The Minister explained that the ministry was created with a clear vision to unlock the potential of the livestock industry and address the long-standing conflict between herders and farmers, which has threatened national food and nutritional security.
He said the ministry, in collaboration with relevant stakeholders, is working hard to identify and resolve the challenges hindering the sector’s development.
“The ministry is making concerted efforts to implement lasting solutions to these challenges through a consultative and all-inclusive strategy. This requires strong leadership, good governance, well-informed policies, and effective collaboration among all stakeholders.”
He emphasized that the ministry is fully on track and committed to realizing President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda. As part of these efforts, a newly constructed, solar-powered National Strategic Vaccine Cold Room Storage with a 40-million-dose capacity has been commissioned in Abuja.
According to him, this will greatly improve our ability to prevent, manage and control diseases that threaten the livestock sector which holds immense potentials for economic growth, food security, wealth and job creation across the country,
Similarly, in his welcome address, the National President of the Nigerian Veterinary Medical Association, Dr. Moses Arokoyo, stated that we live in a world that has not only become a global village but also one characterized by rapid changes.
These changes have led to the emergence and re-emergence of diseases, with multiple outbreaks of zoonotic diseases occurring in quick succession this year.
He therefore emphasized that the role of veterinarians in raising awareness about emerging zoonotic threats, promoting animal welfare, advancing scientific research, and highlighting the effects of climate change can no longer be taken lightly.
He also reaffirmed the association’s commitment to contributing to the development of Nigeria’s livestock sector, enhancing disease control, and ensuring public health and safety.
“With the creation of the ministry we must ensure our potentials are properly harnessed and our role as veterinarian we play it to ensure there is wholesome meat and there is public health and zoonotic diseases are controlled these are some of the idea and strategies to contribute fir National development”
Also in her message, the President Veterinary Council of Nigeria Dr Aishat Abubakar Baju said the administration of President Tinubu is passionate about livestock development , thus the creation of the ministry and the council is committed in ensuring collaborative effort in livestock development in Nigeria.
“Establishing the ministry and the committee for implementing livestock development reforms is a remarkable development. We at the council are committed to aligning with Mr. President to ensure the success of his Renewed Hope Agenda for economic development.”
The Association has assured its commitment to doing everything possible to ensure quality leadership for the development of the veterinary profession and professionals, enabling them to attain their rightful position in governance and socio-economic development.
COV/Bashir M
