In a move aimed at transforming Nigeria’s livestock sector, the Honourable Minister of Livestock Development, Idi Mukhtar Maiha, has called for collaboration among key stakeholders to drive the needed sectoral transformation.
The Minister stated this on Wednesday, March 12, 2025, at the inauguration ceremony of the 12th Board and newly elected Principal Officers of the Veterinary Council of Nigeria (VCN).
He highlighted critical areas requiring transformation, including peacebuilding, feed and fodder development, capacity building, disease-free zones, and research and development.
Maiha noted that enhanced research efforts would enable the Council to reposition Nigeria’s livestock industry, drawing inspiration from countries like Brazil.
He urged the new board to leverage available resources and reassured the Council of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s commitment to positioning the livestock sector as a key driver of food security, poverty reduction, and public health improvement.
The Minister also stressed the importance of disease control and surveillance, particularly in combating zoonotic diseases.
He acknowledged the funding challenges facing the VCN and assured members that efforts are underway to reinstate the Council’s inclusion in Federal Government budgetary allocations.
Other dignitaries who spoke at the event included the Honourable Minister of State for Agriculture and Food Security, Senator Dr. Aliyu Abdu Sabi Abdullahi, and the Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Livestock Development, Dr. Chinyere Ijeoma Akujobi.
They emphasized the need for synergy and collaboration to drive sectoral improvements.
