FG Engages Oyo Stakeholders on Livestock Development as Miyetti Allah, AFAN Pledge Support

The Federal Government has launched a nationwide stakeholder engagement initiative to enhance awareness of livestock production and its value chain. The initiative, spearheaded by the Minister of Livestock Development, Idi Muktar, aims to boost productivity, ensure food sufficiency, and strengthen Nigeria’s livestock sector.

Speaking at the engagement meeting held at Jagz Hotel, Iyaganku, Ibadan, on Sunday, the Minister emphasized the need for collaboration among key players, including farmers, herders, meat and dairy processors, and marketers. He noted that the livestock industry, valued at ₦31 trillion, remains an untapped goldmine in Nigeria’s economy.

Accompanied by the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Livestock Development, Idris Abiola-Ajimobi, and other officials, Muktar reiterated President Bola Tinubu’s commitment to modernizing agriculture, improving livestock production, and reducing conflicts between farmers and herders. He explained that his nationwide tour includes inspecting livestock facilities such as cattle, poultry, piggery, goatry, and sheep farms while meeting with state governors to foster collaboration on upscaling livestock production.

The Minister highlighted that the initiative seeks to educate stakeholders on modern livestock practices, disease control, breeding techniques, and market access. He stressed that a well-structured livestock value chain can significantly increase farmers’ incomes and enhance Nigeria’s self-sufficiency in meat and dairy production.

“My visit to Oyo is part of a broader tour across states to inspect major farms and engage governors on ways to upscale livestock production. We want to hear directly from stakeholders to shape policies that will drive transformation in the sector,” he said.

The Senior Special Assistant to the President on Livestock Development, Idris Abiola-Ajimobi, hailed the engagement as a success, urging stakeholders to support the federal government’s agenda. He noted that the newly created ministry is focused on addressing challenges such as farmer-herder clashes and improving livestock production through direct engagement, sensitization, and industry support programs.

“For over 60 years, Nigerians have demanded a dedicated ministry for livestock development. President Tinubu has taken the bold step of creating it, and it is now up to all of us to ensure its success,” Abiola-Ajimobi stated.

Industry stakeholders welcomed the initiative, emphasizing the need for policies that address security concerns and improve financial access for small-scale farmers.

Adewunmi Abass Adekunle, Chairman of the Oyo State chapter of the All Farmers Association of Nigeria (AFAN), expressed optimism about the initiative, calling on stakeholders to unite for the common good.

“This is a commendable initiative by the federal government. If well implemented, it will address many challenges in the sector. I urge all stakeholders—farmers, herders, poultry owners, and others—to embrace this program and support the government in ensuring food security, particularly in meat production,” he said.

Similarly, Alhaji Ibrahim Abubakar, Chairman of the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN) in Oyo State, commended the government’s efforts, stressing the importance of proper engagement and sensitization.

Former MACBAN chairman, Alhaji Yaqub Bello, also praised the initiative and called for continuous stakeholder engagement to ensure the adoption of best practices in livestock production.

The federal government’s engagement with stakeholders in Oyo State marks a significant step in reforming Nigeria’s livestock sector, with stakeholders pledging their cooperation to drive sustainable development and economic growth.

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