Home News ‘Appoint Experienced Veterinary Doctor to Head State Livestock Ministry,’ NAVD Tells Gov Ododo

‘Appoint Experienced Veterinary Doctor to Head State Livestock Ministry,’ NAVD Tells Gov Ododo

by AgroNigeria

Governor Usman Ahmed Ododo’s recent approval of the Ministry of Livestock Development in Kogi State has led the Nigerian Association of Veterinary Doctors (NAVD) to call for the appointment of an experienced Veterinary Doctor as the Ministry’s first Commissioner. 

This plea was voiced by Dr. Omotugba Samuel Tolu, the State Chairman of NAVD, during a recent press briefing where he expressed his gratitude for the Governor’s timely decision. 

Dr. Tolu commended the establishment of the Ministry, emphasizing its role in ensuring livestock development in the state.

According to Dr. Tolu, appointing a veterinary professional would ensure that the Ministry is equipped to tackle the challenges of animal health, disease control, and livestock management. 

He pointed out that only a professional with a deep understanding of animal welfare and veterinary care could address the complexities involved in leading such an important sector.

The NAVD Chairman also made it clear that the health of both animals and humans is inextricably linked. He warned that the consequences of having someone who lacks expertise in animal health at the helm of the Ministry could put the entire state at risk. 

He argued that the leadership of the Ministry must be entrusted to a skilled veterinary doctor to guarantee its success and ensure that the state’s livestock sector thrives.

NAVD, as the professional body of veterinary doctors in Kogi State, expressed unwavering support for Governor Ododo’s administration. 

Dr. Tolu assured the Governor that the association is fully committed to collaborating with the state government on initiatives aimed at advancing the livestock sector and improving the welfare of Kogi’s citizens. 

He stated that NAVD’s support is not only for the Ministry’s creation but also for the continued development of the state’s agricultural and livestock industries.

In his remarks, Dr. Tolu also acknowledged that the creation of the Ministry had been long overdue. He praised the Kogi State Government for being among the first to establish a Ministry focused on livestock development, aligning with the Federal Government’s broader initiative under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration. 

Dr. Tolu emphasized that the creation of this Ministry shows that the state recognizes the importance of this sector and is committed to its growth.

Kogi State, Dr. Tolu pointed out, is uniquely positioned to capitalize on livestock development due to its vast livestock population and its central location.

“Kogi state is blessed with an unprecedented number of livestock, said as a State that shares boundaries with ten States in the country, and serves as gate-way to the Northern, Southern, Eastern and Western parts of the country.

“The State can not afford to be left out in this positive development. Hence, this prompt action of his Gov. Ododo to approve the creation of the new Ministry is highly commendable and a good step in the right direction.

“This singular action of Gov. Ododo has put Kogi State on a very high pedestal among the committee of States in Nigeria that are ready to take livestock development to the highest level,” he said.

Dr. Tolu went on to explain that the establishment of the Ministry will have a wide range of benefits for Kogi State. One of the most important outcomes will be the increased revenue generation for the state, thanks to a more organized and productive livestock sector. 

Additionally, Dr. Tolu highlighted that the Ministry will improve livestock productivity by implementing better veterinary practices and boosting the state’s capacity to manage animal health. 

With the Ministry’s focus on disease surveillance and response, the state will be better equipped to handle outbreaks and prevent the spread of diseases that could harm both animals and humans.

A major issue that Dr. Tolu addressed was the long-standing herder-farmer conflicts that have plagued many parts of Nigeria, including Kogi. 

He stressed that the creation of the Ministry would play an important role in addressing this issue by providing a structure for better management of livestock movement, improved dialogue between herders and farmers, and enhanced regulation of grazing activities.

Dr. Tolu further emphasized that the success of the Ministry of Livestock Development depends largely on the appointment of a competent veterinary professional to lead it.

He reiterated that only someone with the right expertise could effectively manage the challenges facing the livestock sector.

You may also like

Leave a Comment

AgroNigeria

AgroNigeria is a pioneer brand for agricultural “online” news publishing through its media publishing platform available 24hrs to over 30 Million internet users within Nigeria and other online readers internationally.

© 2024 AgroNigeria. All rights reserved. Developed by Godswill

Newsletter sign up!

 Sign up to receive our daily newsletter.