The Honourable Minister of Livestock Development, Idi Mukhtar Maiha, has emphasized the need for a sustainable and productive approach to pasture and fodder development in the country’s livestock sector.
The Minister stated this at the National Partial Planting Day celebration held at the Kawu Grazing Reserve in Bwari, a suburb of the Federal Capital Territory, on Tuesday.
Maiha emphasized the importance of modernizing livestock production through climate-resilient initiatives.
He noted that the lack of quality and sustainable fodder has led to nutritional deficiencies in animals, reduced productivity, and conflicts between farmers and herders.
“To address this challenge, the Federal Government has launched a national pasture development program, which includes investing in high-yielding and drought-tolerant pasture species, training pasture and herder extension services, and establishing strategy pasture seed banks and feedlots”, he said.
The Minister highlighted the need for collaboration and cooperation among stakeholders, including state and local governments, pastoral communities, development partners, NGOs, traditional institutions, and religious leaders.
Maiha assured that the administration is committed to implementing the National Livestock Growth Administration Strategy, which aims to promote peace, productivity, and prosperity in the livestock sector.
Also speaking, the Minister of State for the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), his Excellency, Nyesom Wike reaffirmed the administration’s commitment to supporting pasture development projects and other initiatives that will secure the future of Nigeria’s livestock industry.
The Minister, represented by Dr. Mariya Mahmud, emphasized the importance of modernizing livestock production to enhance food security and build a sustainable agricultural future.
He reponded to concerns raised by Alhaji Ali Dankawu, the District Head of Kawu, regarding compensation for landowners of the grazing reserve, assuring that the issue is being addressed through official channels and that the FCT administration is committed to completing the process.
The District Head had also requested the establishment of a registration center in the area to address security concerns.
Spark News Naija reports that the initiative is part of the Federal Government’s efforts to transform the livestock sector through sustainable policies, improved veterinary services, and climate-smart technologies.