President Bola Tinubu has named Professor Attahiru Jega, the former Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission, as the co-chairman of the committee responsible for coordinating the implementation of livestock reforms in Nigeria.
The announcement was made by presidential spokesman Ajuri Ngelale during the inauguration of the Presidential Committee on Implementation of Livestock Reforms at the presidential villa in Abuja on Tuesday.
In his address, President Tinubu emphasized that Jega will play a crucial role in leading the committee to overcome obstacles in agricultural productivity and create new opportunities for farmers, herders, processors, and distributors within the livestock-farming sector.
He called for bipartisan support, stating, “I will assume the chairmanship of the committee as President and appoint Professor Attahiru Jega as my deputy or co-chair. This is not about politics; this is about opportunity and our nation. While I may be absent, Jega will preside and continue to promote our objectives.”
The President highlighted the necessity of reforming traditional livestock farming methods with the help of stakeholders, including state governments, to unlock growth and prosperity. He mentioned the potential creation of a Ministry of Livestock Development to support veterinary research and cross-breeding efforts, aiming to reduce conflicts and improve productivity.
To ensure the effective implementation of the reforms, President Tinubu tasked Attorney-General Lateef Fagbemi with removing legal barriers and Minister of Communication Bosun Tijani with providing automation support. He also urged the Ministers of Budget and Economic Planning and Finance to allocate the necessary funds for the initiative.
Tinubu concluded by urging all stakeholders to support the comprehensive reforms, noting the significant commercial and economic benefits of livestock farming, dairy products, and cold-chain logistics for Nigeria.
