From Scholastica Hir, Makurdi
With farmer-herder clashes threatening food security and peace, the Principal Special Assistant to the Governor of Benue State on Livestock Development and Transboundary Animal Disease Control, Dr. Aondoaka Asambe, has announced that the state government will soon carry out a comprehensive livestock census. The initiative, according to him, aims not only to provide accurate statistics on both livestock but tackle cattle rustling and other forms of criminality affecting the state.
Dr. Asambe made the disclosure on Monday during a visit to several abattoirs in the capital city of Makurdi.
He reiterated the Governor’s strong commitment to revitalising the livestock industry in Benue, emphasising that the census would play a crucial role in stabilising the sector.
“The livestock census will be instrumental in many ways.
“One of its key benefits is controlling the persistent farmer-herder clashes we’ve been experiencing in the state. It will also curb animal rustling, as it will make it easier to trace animals to their rightful owners through identification tags.”
He further detailed the government’s plans for the short-term and long-term revitalization of the livestock industry. “In the short term, we intend to conduct the livestock census, register livestock farmers, hatcheries, and feed mills, with the primary goal of meeting local consumption demands,” Asambe said. “By conducting the census, we’ll ensure that every animal in the state is accounted for, with proper identification. All animals coming to abattoirs will have tags, which will significantly reduce crime in the industry.”
In addition to improving the security of the livestock sector, Asambe outlined plans to overhaul livestock establishments in the state.
“We are committed to resuscitating all livestock facilities across the state in the medium to long term. This will include the introduction of improved livestock breeds to increase production and enhance the overall industry’s performance.”
Dr. Asambe also addressed the current state of abattoirs in Makurdi, highlighting that they do not meet the minimum standards required for slaughterhouses. He pointed out the poor road conditions, lack of potable water, and inadequate hygiene practices as significant obstacles hindering the effective functioning of the abattoirs.
Meanwhile, the Chairman of the Meat Shops Owners Association, Makurdi branch, Mr. Austin Ugwu, called on the state government to create a more conducive environment for businesses in the sector. He urged the government to address these challenges and provide the necessary support to enable meat shop owners to carry out their businesses effectively.
In summary, the proposed livestock census and the broader reforms being planned by the Benue State Government represent a significant step toward improving the livestock industry, ensuring security, and fostering economic growth within the region.