Kogi Partners with NAITS to Revolutionise Livestock Development

The Kogi State Government has taken a bold step toward transforming its livestock sector with the launch of the National Animal Identification and Traceability System (NAITS) in Lokoja. The initiative, introduced through a collaboration between the Ministry of Livestock Development and the Kogi Livestock Productivity and Resilience Enhancement Project (L-PRES), aims to boost productivity, security, and economic sustainability within the livestock value chain.

Source:kogistate

Commissioner for Livestock Development, Dr. Olufemi Bolarin, described the initiative as a game-changer that aligns with the government’s commitment to strengthening food security and rural economic growth. He explained that NAITS will ensure effective identification, registration, and traceability of all livestock, helping to curb cattle rustling, livestock theft, and the spread of transboundary animal diseases that have long hindered progress in the sector.

Dr. Bolarin noted that livestock farming remains central to the livelihoods of many rural communities in Kogi, and the introduction of NAITS comes at a crucial time. He said the system will enable the state to track animal movement, monitor health records, and foster trade transparency, ultimately building trust among farmers, herders, and consumers.

He further highlighted that the ongoing sensitisation and training workshops are designed to raise awareness and equip livestock owners with knowledge on efficient production and management practices. Dr. Bolarin commended the support from Kogi L-PRES, the Federal Ministry of Livestock Development, and other partners, describing the creation of a dedicated ministry for livestock as a visionary step toward sustainable growth.

A representative of the Federal Ministry of Livestock Development, Abdulkareem Durosinolorun, praised the Kogi Government for embracing NAITS, a national initiative under the Federal Government’s Livestock Transformation Plan, implemented in partnership with Megacorp Nigeria Limited. He said the move demonstrates Kogi’s readiness to drive innovation and set a standard for other states.

Kogi L-PRES Project Coordinator, Mr. Abdulkabir Otaru, also lauded the launch as a milestone in modernising livestock production, while the Director of Animal Husbandry Services, Mr. Isah Anate Jimoh, assured that the ministry will work closely with livestock associations, community leaders, and security agencies to ensure smooth implementation and active participation across all 21 local government areas.