The Niger State Government, successfully concluded a landmark event hosting the Presidential Livestock Reforms Implementation Committee (PLRIC). The event, held in Minna with a tour to the Tagwai Feedlot and Breeding Centre, brought together key stakeholders to deliberate on strategic approaches for transforming Nigeria’s livestock sector.
The initiative aligns with national efforts to enhance livestock management, boost productivity, and promote sustainable agricultural practices.The event was led by Farmer Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago of Niger State and Professor Attahiru Jega, Co-Chairman of the PLRIC. It underscored the commitment of both state and federal governments to advancing livestock reforms while fostering constructive dialogue among stakeholders.PLRIC’s Comprehensive Reform AgendaProfessor Attahiru Jega, Co-Chairman of the PLRIC, presented the committee’s objectives, scope of work, and achievements to date.
The PLRIC, inaugurated by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on July 9, 2024, aims to deliver a reformed, resilient, and globally competitive livestock sector that significantly contributes to Nigeria’s socioeconomic development.Key highlights of the PLRIC’s presentation included:
- 16 Terms of Reference (ToRs) and 22 Specific Reform Objectives aimed at addressing critical challenges in the livestock sector.
- 120 Reform Activities and 3,146 Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) to track progress.
- Five Working Groups focusing on various aspects of livestock development, including breed improvement, conflict resolution, and private sector engagement.Professor Jega commended Niger State for its pioneering efforts in livestock development, including the establishment of a Ministry of Livestock and Fishery Development and a Ministry of Pastoralists and Nomadic Affairs. He urged other states to emulate Niger’s inclusive and innovative approach.
During their tour of Tagwai Feedlot and Breeding Centre, Governor Bago emphasized the importance of integrating crop and livestock farming as a pathway to sustainable agricultural production. He highlighted the often-overlooked needs of livestock in Nigeria’s food security calculations and outlined Niger State’s innovative strategies to address these gaps.“Niger Foods will be cropping for livestock using pivot irrigation for dry-season farming and strategically storing grains for livestock. These measures are crucial for crisis prevention, conflict mitigation, and cost reduction in poultry and fish production,” Governor Bago stated. He also announced plans to provide free artificial insemination (AI) services to local cattle owners to support breed improvement and hybridization.
