By Muhammad Maitela, Damaturu
The Kulen Allah Cattle Rearers Association of Nigeria (KACRAN) has expressed doubts over the sincerity of the federal government to drive livestock development in the country.
A statement by the National President of the association, Khalil Mohammad Bello, noted that since the creation of the Ministry of Livestock Development eight months ago, nothing much has been done to indicate any seriousness for its take off.
The association said that the budgetary allocation of the ministry was not only pitiable but also the efforts to set up office space has been agonisingly slow.
It said that the nonchalant attitude of the government has seriously impeded the implementation of essential policies and programmes aimed at promoting the livestock sector and its value chain across Nigeria.
“When the Ministry was established on July 9, 2024, we, Nigeria’s pastoralists, viewed it as a long-awaited answer to our prayers and a significant step towards addressing over 50 years of neglect in the livestock sector.
“The lack of progress since then has been disheartening, preventing the Ministry from fulfilling its critical role in ensuring food security and contributing to the national economy.
“The Ministry functions more as a Directorate of Animal Husbandry Services, lacking the resources and infrastructure necessary for it to operate independently and effectively.
“Despite the critical nature of its mission, the allocated office space/building remains unrenovated, and a timeline for starting the renovation or completion has not been provided.
“This situation severely hampers the ability of the Honourable Minister, Permanent Secretary, Directors and staff to coordinate effectively and execute their responsibilities,” the association added.
KACKRAN also observed that the financial resources allocated to the Ministry for the 2025 fiscal year “are insufficient for the Ministry to achieve its objectives.
“Therefore, KACRAN is deeply concerned that without immediate attention to these challenges, the foundational goals of the Ministry will remain unattainable.
“As the political landscape evolves, it is vital that the focus remains on timely policy implementation rather than allowing the future of this very important Ministry to be muddling through uncertainties.
“We urge President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to prioritize the renovation and operation of the Ministry’s office so that the Honourable Minister and staff can effectively promote and develop the livestock sector.”
