Jigawa, Nigeria — The Federal Government and Jigawa State Government are set to collaborate on a project to transform the livestock sector.
This partnership was announced on Thursday at the Jigawa State Stakeholders Consultative Workshop on Livestock Reforms, in Dutse, the state capital.
The co-chairman of the Presidential Livestock Reforms Implementation Committee, Prof Attahiru Jega, commended Jigawa State for its leading role in developing the livestock sector.
He praised Governor Umar Namadi’s dedication to improving lives and driving innovation.
“This partnership is expected to drive economic growth, create jobs, and enhance food security,” he stated.
Jega disclosed that JBS S.A., a global livestock company, is set to invest $2.5 billion in Nigeria’s livestock sector, adding that “this investment will focus on developing ranches and modern processing plants.”
To ensure sustainable growth, Jega urged Jigawa to establish a dedicated livestock agency, expand grazing reserves, and implement an advanced animal tracking system, saying,
“This will enhance efficiency, security, and productivity in the sector.”
As part of the partnership, both parties will establish a joint task force to identify priority areas and develop actionable policies for immediate implementation.
“This task force will play a crucial role in driving the livestock sector’s growth,” Jega added.
In his address, Jigawa State Governor, Namadi emphasised the significance of livestock in Jigawa’s economy and culture, stating that it accounts for almost 10% of the state’s GDP.
“Livestock and animal husbandry is not just an economic activity in Jigawa State; it is a way of life for most families,” he added.
The governor therefore outlined his administration’s 12-point agenda for livestock development, focusing on improving animal breeding, expanding dairy production, and supporting farmers.
He also reiterated plans to establish a Ministry for Livestock Development to optimise the sector’s contribution to food security and economic diversification.
Namadi explained that recent successes in Jigawa’s livestock sector include training 300 community animal health workers, vaccinating over 560,000 animals, and gazetting 57 grazing reserves.
The governor then encouraged everyone to get involved, saying,
“Your ideas and feedback are crucial as we work to create a livestock sector that’s productive, inclusive, and sustainable.”
Margret Oshinowo|February 28, 2025
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