Governor of Enugu State, Peter Mbah, has reaffirmed his administration’s dedication to creating a favorable environment to fully harness the potential of the state’s cattle ranching market.
The governor highlighted that the cattle market generates an annual revenue of ₦50 billion and noted that the newly enacted Public Ranch Bill, passed by the Enugu State House of Assembly in May, will provide the necessary structure to support the growth and development of the industry.”
The Southeast region’s Intersociety had earlier warned the governors of Enugu, Abia, and Anambra states about the dangers of allocating small land areas for Fulani herdsmen ranching and settlements.
Mbah acknowledged the controversy surrounding the bill, attributing it to ineffective communication of governance matters.
“In terms of the controversy, I think it is because of the issue I pointed out when we talked about challenges of governance – communication, making sure that you distil these things in a manner that the people understand what you want to do.”
Highlighting the business opportunities within the cattle industry, Mbah noted, “Animal husbandry is a huge business. It’s a business that has a turnover of ₦50 billion annually. It is a subsector that we can structure and get not just people from one part of the country to play in that space.”
Mbah outlined the bill’s objectives, stressing the importance of structured management over traditional practices.
“What we have proposed—and what has been enacted into law—is a structured approach to cattle management,” he said.
“Instead of having cattle roam freely through farmlands or streets, we are advocating for designated ranches. These ranches will function as organized markets with abattoirs, feed mills, and proper infrastructure.”
He stressed that the proposed market is purely commercial.
“When I say market, I mean a market strictly for business purposes, not a residential area. It will be a place where anyone interested, including our traders, can participate,” the governor stated.
According to the governor, this structured approach will enhance the efficiency and profitability of the cattle industry in Enugu State.
“This law advocates for a well-organized cattle market, providing opportunities for our local business people and ensuring better management of the sector,” he added.
