By Abdullahi Idris, Dutse As part of efforts to transform the agricultural sector, Governor Umar Namadi of Jigawa State paid a working vis...
By Abdullahi Idris, Dutse
As part of efforts to transform the agricultural sector, Governor Umar Namadi of Jigawa State paid a working visit to the headquarters of the newly established Federal Ministry of Livestock Development in Abuja. He was warmly received by the Minister, Alhaji Idi Mukhtar Maiha, alongside other key ministry officials.
The visit provided a platform for strategic discussions on fostering collaboration in critical areas of livestock development in Nigeria. Key topics included attracting investment in livestock farming, demarcating cattle routes to mitigate farmer-herder conflicts, and sustainably developing fertile areas for livestock production.
In his remarks, Governor Namadi underscored the importance of a strong partnership between state governments and the Federal Ministry to unlock Nigeria's livestock industry’s untapped potential. He emphasized that the sector is crucial for enhancing food security, creating employment opportunities, and boosting the national economy.
“We are here to congratulate you on your appointment. You have taken office at a time when this ministry is most needed. It is vital to driving President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope agenda, particularly in food security and economic development,” the governor said.
He further highlighted Jigawa State’s deep involvement in livestock development, noting that it is a key component of the state’s 12-point agenda. He referenced the Maigatari livestock market—one of the largest in Africa—as a significant asset that the state is working to improve, alongside efforts to enhance the state’s airport to support livestock trade.
Governor Namadi also spoke about Jigawa’s peace-building efforts, including the establishment of a Farmers and Herdsmen Board to mediate conflicts and ensure a harmonious relationship between the two groups.
“We have created the Farmers and Herdsmen Board to mediate between farmers and herders, ensuring peaceful coexistence. The board is effectively functioning, ensuring that neither group is exploited. One of its major tasks is the demarcation and protection of grazing reserves,” he explained.
He further revealed that Jigawa State has 54 gazetted grazing reserves, with an additional 60 to 70 reserves identified. Many of these reserves are equipped with water points, significantly improving relations between farmers and herders.
The governor also showcased Jigawa’s goat-breeding program, launched in 2016 to empower widows across the state. The initiative has enhanced goat production and livelihoods, earning national recognition and World Bank support.
In response, Minister Alhaji Idi Mukhtar Maiha commended Governor Namadi’s proactive leadership, describing Jigawa’s livestock development efforts as a model for other states.
“Your Excellency, I have closely followed developments in Jigawa State and deeply appreciate your commitment to livestock development. Your government has demonstrated remarkable dedication to the sector,” the minister remarked.
He further revealed that the ministry had conducted a nationwide inventory of livestock infrastructure, including grazing reserves, cattle routes, water bodies, and livestock markets. He expressed satisfaction with Jigawa’s progress in these areas.
“Your Excellency, Jigawa’s peace-building model is commendable. It has significantly reduced farmer-herder conflicts and should be adopted by other states. I am aware that pastoralists cannot enter any local government in Jigawa without following due process, which has contributed to the state’s stability,” he added.
As part of the collaboration, the federal and state governments will establish a joint task force to identify priority areas and develop actionable policies for immediate implementation.
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