The Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN) has praised President Bola Tinubu for the establishment of the Ministry of Livestock Development, which is expected to create qualitative and productive jobs across the livestock value chain and improve the Nigerian economy.
In a statement released on Tuesday in Abuja, MACBAN President Alhaji Baba Othman-Ngelzarma highlighted the potential of the new ministry to unlock the trillion-naira livestock economy. He emphasised that this development aligns with the association’s long-standing goal of modernising livestock production to meet global standards.
“With this development, MACBAN believes the hope of the Nigerian pastoralists is now achieved under the Renew Hope Agenda. The promise made by President Tinubu to raise the productive capacity of Nigerian agriculture to ensure food security is being fulfilled,” said Othman-Ngelzarma.
He pledged MACBAN’s support to the federal government in transforming livestock production into a significant source of foreign exchange, reducing farmer-herder conflicts, and addressing related security challenges. He also expressed appreciation on behalf of Nigerian pastoralists, noting their intention to reciprocate the government’s gesture.
The statement concluded with congratulations to President Tinubu from the MACBAN leadership, including the Chairman and members of the Board of Trustees, His Eminence the Sultan of Sokoto, Sa’ad Abubakar III, and all members of the Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria.
President Tinubu announced the creation of the Ministry of Livestock Development during the inauguration of the Renewed Hope Livestock Reform Implementation Committee at the Council Chambers of the State House, Abuja. He appointed Prof. Attahiru Jega as the deputy or Co-chair of the committee.
“When you have a great opportunity like this, why should Nigeria continue in conflict with the calibre of the people here? This presents a unique opportunity also to delineate and establish a separate ministry called the Ministry of Livestock Development. We will develop the economy, and give people the opportunity to excel. Our vet doctors can give us the necessary opportunity to rear, crossbreed, and stop the wanton killings. Even animal feed is a huge economy,” President Tinubu stated.
The inauguration ceremony was attended by Vice-President Kashim Shettima, Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Sen. George Akume, Chief of Staff to the President, Femi Gbajabiamila, and other dignitaries.