The Minister of Livestock Development, Idi Mukhtar Maiha, has arrived in Calabar, the Cross River State capital, for a working visit aimed at advancing Nigeria’s livestock industry.
As part of his visit, the Minister paid a courtesy call on Governor Bassey Otu, who was represented by Deputy Governor Peter Odey.
During the meeting, Maiha underscored the immense economic potential of Nigeria’s livestock industry, valued at ₦33 trillion, yet largely underutilized.
He reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to modernizing the sector through enhanced livestock management, disease control, and infrastructure development.
Governor Otu, through his deputy, welcomed the initiative and reiterated Cross River State’s dedication to fostering livestock growth.
He pointed to the state’s successful expansion of cocoa farming as an example of strategic agricultural investment and expressed readiness to support similar advancements in livestock production.
The Governor also acknowledged the sector’s existing challenges and emphasized the need for collaboration among the Federal Government, state governments, traditional rulers, and pastoralist organizations to ensure effective policy implementation.
As part of his engagements, the Minister and his team toured livestock facilities within the metropolis to assess sectoral challenges firsthand.
They also visited the Hausa community in the state, fostering dialogue and gaining insights into their concerns and needs.
