The King of Tiv, James Ayatse, has charged the Nigerian Veterinary Medical Association (NVMA) Benue State chapter to spearhead a livestock development plan for the state, warning that without proactive action, the sector risks falling under the influence of external interests.
Speaking to NVMA members on Tuesday in Gboko, Ayatse said “If we do not have a livestock plan, people will push one on us,”emphasizing that state professionals must take the lead.
Ayatse noted livestock farming’s vital role in Benue’s food security and protein supply.
He argued the state cannot abandon the sector, questioning, “Where will we get protein from?”
He also advocated for veterinary clinics in major towns to bolster animal healthcare, disease control, and farmer productivity.
The paramount ruler expressed optimism that persistent efforts would yield results.
He revealed a personal connection to veterinary medicine, recalling challenges in establishing programs at Joseph Sarwuan Tarka University, Makurdi (JOSTUM).
“God helped us pull through despite the difficulties,” he said, noting the field’s high training costs.
Ayatse praised NVMA’s ongoing initiatives and voiced confidence in future improvements.
Lamenting the decline of agricultural extension services, Ayatse described extension workers as once essential for guiding farmers on improved practices. Their absence has created a major gap in support and development, he noted.
He urged authorities and professional bodies to collaborate on rebuilding these services and strengthening veterinary infrastructure—steps he deemed crucial for the future of livestock farming and agriculture in Benue State.
