Ogun State Mandates Herdsmen Registration, Cracks Down on Illegal Livestock Operations

Herdsmen across Ogun State have been given a strict deadline to formalize their presence by registering with the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security. 

The state government has set March 31, 2025, as the cutoff date for this mandatory registration, which must be completed through the Department of Veterinary Services.

Source: Premium Times Nigeria

In an official statement released on Tuesday, March 18, Kehinde Jokotoye, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, announced that the registration initiative is being carried out in collaboration with the Ogun chapter of the South West Commodity Farmers Organisation. She emphasized that compiling a comprehensive database of herders will enhance security measures, streamline livestock management, and prevent potential disputes.

Beyond the herder registration, the state government has uncovered several unauthorized operations within the livestock sector. Jokotoye revealed that numerous private veterinary practitioners and veterinary pharmaceutical businesses are running without the necessary approvals. 

She also highlighted the existence of illegal slaughter slabs, cattle markets, and live bird markets operating in Ogun State without the proper licenses from the Department of Veterinary Services.

In light of these findings, the government has issued a stern warning to those engaged in these unapproved activities. Jokotoye declared that all illegal operations must cease immediately or risk facing legal repercussions under the Animal Disease Control Act of 2022.

She called on all stakeholders within the livestock industry to ensure full compliance with government regulations, urging them to obtain the required documentation and licenses. This move, she affirmed, is aimed at fostering a more secure and well-regulated livestock sector in the state.