Reps decry neglect of livestock development

From Ndubuisi Orji, Abuja

The House of Representatives has decried the neglect of livestock development by previous administrations in the country.

The Chairman of the House Committee on Livestock Development, Wale Raji, while speaking at the inaugural meeting of the committee, expressed dismay over the inability of previous administrations to harness the potential of livestock.

The lawmaker explained that annual livestock production in the country is currently estimated at 563 million chickens, 58 million cattle, 124 million goats, 60 million sheep, and 16 million pigs.

According to him, though this makes Nigeria the leading livestock producer in West Africa, the country is far from meeting its consumption needs.

Raji, who stated that the committee was necessitated by the establishment of the Federal Ministry of Livestock Development by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, said the panel would work towards the development of the sector.

He said, “Nigeria stands at the precipice of extraordinary opportunity. The livestock sector is ripe for transformation, offering pathways to food security, economic diversification, and wealth creation.

“As we begin our work, it is our responsibility and privilege to be part of the pioneering effort at repositioning this sector for a future of prosperity and sustainability.

“Our mandate, as approved by the Speaker, encompasses the general oversight of the Ministry responsible for Livestock Development.

“This includes its departments, parastatals, agencies, colleges, and research institutes, as detailed in the reports of the Presidential Livestock Reforms Implementation Committee co-chaired by Mr. President.

“We have a wide scope to ensure the effective and impactful development of this sector, and it is crucial that we execute our duties with diligence, transparency, and commitment to excellence.”