FG Sets Up NEC Technical Team to Drive Livestock Reforms

The Federal Government has inaugurated a National Economic Council Technical Sub-Committee on Livestock Development, reaffirming plans to reposition the sector for economic growth and food security.

The Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, Senator Abubakar Bagudu, inaugurated the sub-committee and said it was created to align existing livestock policies and produce an implementation roadmap for adoption by the National Economic Council.

Bagudu recalled that the NEC had earlier set up a high-level livestock committee chaired by Kebbi State Governor, Dr. Nasir Idris. He said the technical sub-committee was approved due to the urgency of the task and the limited availability of state governors.

He said the focus is to review existing reports and develop a practical action plan without delay. Bagudu added that President Bola Tinubu has shown strong commitment to livestock development, including the creation of a stand-alone Ministry of Livestock Development.

The minister said livestock development requires cooperation across federal, state, and local governments, noting that his ministry serves as the coordinating secretariat to align national plans, budgets, and programmes.

Bagudu highlighted funding options including the World Bank-supported L-PRES Project, NG-CARES, the Nigeria for Women Programme, and the Renewed Hope Ward-Based Development Plan. He urged states to take ownership of the process to attract more resources and private sector participation.

Earlier, the Director overseeing the Office of the Permanent Secretary, Dr. Sampson Ebimaro, described the meeting as a key step toward advancing the administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

Members of the sub-committee include federal and state officials, project coordinators, policy experts, and the Minister of Livestock Development, Alhaji Idi Maiha.