One of Nigeria’s primary herders’ associations, the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN), has commended President Bola Tinubu for establishing a Ministry for Livestock Development.
MACBAN President, Baba Othman-Ngelzarma, expressed his gratitude during an appearance on Channels Television’s *Sunrise Daily* program on Wednesday, hours after the President announced the creation of the new ministry.
The MACBAN leader praised the President for the timely creation of the ministry, stating, “This is what we have been agitating for and today, we have it. We are so excited and very happy. Our hope has been renewed under the Renewed Hope Agenda of Mr President.”
Othman-Ngelzarma emphasized that the potential of the livestock sector in Nigeria has not been fully realized compared to neighboring countries. He expressed optimism that the new ministry would unlock the economic potential of the sector, creating more jobs and transforming various aspects such as production, processing, transportation, and management, alongside enhancing security measures.
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On Tuesday, President Tinubu announced the creation of the new ministry at the Council Chamber in Abuja, highlighting that the move is expected to end the recurrent clashes between pastoralists and farmers.
The creation of the Ministry for Livestock Development has elicited mixed reactions. While some believe that the existing Ministry of Agriculture was sufficient and fear the new ministry may increase governance costs, others see it as a necessary step forward.