President Tinubu Inaugurates Livestock Reforms Committee to Boost Agricultural Productivity

 

President Bola Tinubu has launched a Presidential Committee on Implementation of Livestock Reforms, aimed at addressing obstacles to agricultural productivity in Nigeria. The committee, which was inaugurated in Abuja, will be co-chaired by Prof. Attahiru Jega, a former Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

In his inaugural address, President Tinubu emphasized that the livestock reform is not about politics, but about creating opportunities for farmers, herders, processors, and distributors in the livestock-farming value chain. He tasked the committee to work collectively to overcome challenges and achieve the objectives of the reforms.

The President also announced the creation of a Ministry of Livestock Development to further explore the potential of the livestock sector. He highlighted the need to review and reposition traditional livestock farming methods with the support of stakeholders, including state governments, to open up new opportunities for growth and prosperity.

The committee will be supported by various government agencies, including the Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, who will ensure the removal of legal obstacles to the implementation of the reforms. The Minister of Communication, Innovation and Digital Economy will provide support with automation, while the Minister of Budget and Economic Planning will create a budget for the growth of the sector.

President Tinubu emphasized the importance of modern technology in achieving the objectives of the reforms and urged the committee to work together to provide incentives for Nigeria to take advantage of livestock farming, dairy products, and cold-chain logistics.

The dairy industry, he noted, contributes significantly to nutrition and food security by supplying essential proteins and vitamins, while efficient cold-chain logistics is crucial in maintaining the quality and safety of perishable goods from farms to markets.

The President expressed confidence that the reforms will boost agricultural productivity, enhance export opportunities, and stimulate economic growth by fostering a robust value chain that benefits all stakeholders.