FROM IKHILI EBALU, BENIN CITY
Federal Ministry of Livestock Development, Edo Office, on Thursday, held its inaugural stakeholders meeting to raise awareness about the existence of the ministry.
Speaking at the event, the Coordinator of the ministry, Dr Samuel Owoicho said the meeting was designed to create awareness on the transition of the Ministry of Livestock from the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security.
Owoicho stated that the transition signifies an important milestone in the federal government’s efforts to enhance the livestock sector in Nigeria and Edo State.
He emphasised that the transition presents new opportunities for growth, development and improved service delivery to livestock farmers in the state.
“Our new ministry is committed to supporting the livestock industry, enhancing food security and improving the livelihood of livestock farmers and stakeholders,” the coordinator said.
He said the discussion would centre on the implications of the transition, identify challenges and explore opportunities for collaboration and growth .
He commended the Minister of Livestock Development, Alhaji Idi Maiha, for his support and commitment to ensure the development of livestock in line with the ‘Renewed Hope Agenda’ of President Bola Tinubu.
In his remarks, the Permanent Secretary, Edo State Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security, Mr Peter Osagie pledged the state government’s support and collaboration to ensure a roadmap for the take-off of the ministry.
In his goodwill message, the State Chairman of All Farmers Association of Nigeria, AFAN, Alhaji Bako Dogwo thanked President Tinubu for creating the ministry to settle the problems in the livestock value chain.
Dogwo, who also thanked the president for his favourable agricultural policies, noted that Edo had benefitted from the federal government’s agricultural interventions in the past.
