The Presidential Committee on Livestock Sector Reforms in Nigeria, chaired by Professor Attahiru Jega, submitted its inception report to President Bola Tinubu on Thursday, September 19, 2024 at the State House in Abuja.
The committee’s 152-page document outlines strategic measures for reforming Nigeria’s livestock industry, focusing on resolving the farmer-herder conflicts.
Professor Jega emphasized that while ranching is the long-term goal, open grazing should not be immediately halted, as both methods can coexist in the short term. The committee proposed a ten-year plan to gradually phase out open grazing while developing adequate infrastructure and awareness to support full ranching.
In addition to advocating for technological advancements in livestock production, the committee provided a detailed framework for the newly created Federal Ministry of Livestock. The report is expected to be made public soon for further input.
President Tinubu inaugurated the committee in July, tasking it with addressing agricultural productivity challenges and creating opportunities for stakeholders in Nigeria’s livestock-farming value chain.
