The Federal Government has said it will institutionalize a Livestock Emergency Disaster Management Mechanism to build resilience against future adverse occurrences, like the Borno flood.
The FG through the Livestock Productivity and Resilience Support Project (L-PRES) stated this in response to the recent floods that have severely affected Maiduguri’s livestock sector.
L-PRES National Coordinator, Mallam Sanusi Abubakar, who led an on-the-spot assessment in Borno, outlined immediate intervention measures aimed at helping affected livestock farmers recover from their losses.
Abubakar revealed plans to establish a model veterinary hospital that will function as an Emergency Operations Center (EOC) for livestock. The center, he explained, will offer comprehensive support including training, healthcare services, and facilities for private veterinary practices.
This initiative is part of efforts initiated by the Federal Ministry of Livestock Development (FMLD) under the directive of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. The Ministry, which was recently created, has been charged with implementing immediate recovery plans for the livestock industry in Borno and across Nigeria.
In Borno, the floods have caused severe losses for livestock farmers, poultry producers, and fisheries operators, leaving many on the verge of economic collapse.
Governor Babagana Zulum expressed optimism that the findings from the experts would lead to actionable solutions, thanking the federal government for its quick response. Abubakar’s efforts were further supported by a team of experts, including veterinarians and animal scientists from key federal agencies, as well as the African Development Bank (AfDB).
While visiting the Emir of Borno, Shehu Abubakar Ibn Umar, Abubakar assured the Emir that the FMLD is committed to restoring the region’s livestock industry and supporting the Emir’s zoological garden, which was also destroyed by the floods. The Emir expressed his gratitude, acknowledging the federal government’s attention to Borno during this crisis.
The flood also impacted the Sanda Kyarimi Park Zoo, with only 27 animals surviving out of over 100. The zoo, alongside other livestock infrastructure, will need major rebuilding efforts.
Abubakar further stressed the need to create a Livestock Emergency Disaster Management Mechanism. “This is a turning point for our nation’s livestock industry,” he noted, adding that the mechanism would ensure swift and efficient responses to future disasters.
In her remarks, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Livestock Development, Dr Chinyere Akujobi said, “We are working to institutionalise a Livestock Emergency Disaster Management Mechanism to build resilience against future adverse occurrences like the Borno flood. Indeed the creation of the Federal Ministry of Livestock Development by Mr President was actuated by the desire of the Federal Government to reposition the Livestock Sector towards enhancing food security as well as food safety.”