KACRAN Urges Tinubu to Expedite Livestock Development in Northern Nigeria
By Tada Juthan, Maiduguri
The National President of the Kulen Allah Cattle Rearers Association of Nigeria (KACRAN), Khalil Bello, has called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to accelerate the development of the livestock sector in Northern Nigeria.
In a statement issued over the weekend in Damaturu, Bello emphasised the need for urgent government intervention to operationalise the Ministry of Livestock Development (MoLD), which was established eight months ago but has yet to commence full operations.
“I appeal to President Tinubu to provide immediate support for the full activation of the Ministry of Livestock Development,” he said. Bello lamented that the delay in setting up the ministry’s office and infrastructure has hindered the implementation of critical policies needed to modernize the livestock sector.
Highlighting the vast livestock population in the region, Bello pointed out that Yobe State alone has an estimated 2.7 million cattle, 2.1 million sheep, and 3 million goats, while Borno State boasts the highest livestock population in the country at 11.7 million. Despite these numbers, he noted that inadequate government attention has stifled growth in the sector, limiting its potential contribution to food security and economic development.
KACRAN urged the Federal Government to prioritise investment in livestock infrastructure, research, and support programs to reduce Nigeria’s dependence on costly imported dairy and meat products. “With proper funding and policies, the sector can significantly contribute to food security and the nation’s economic sustainability,” Bello added.
The association, however, expressed appreciation to President Tinubu for appointing Prof. Muhammadu Attahiru Jega as Special Adviser on Livestock Development, describing the move as a step in the right direction.
KACRAN’s call comes at a time when stakeholders are pushing for reforms to boost livestock production and address longstanding challenges in the industry.
