In furtherance of its reform initiatives for improved livestock production in the country, the Federal Ministry of Livestock Development on Thursday launched the National Livestock Transformation Programme at the Grazing Reserve in Wase Local Government Area of Plateau State.
The Minister of Livestock Development, Mr. Idi Maiha, launched the programme during a visit to the reserve, describing it as part of the government’s Renewed Hope Agenda aimed at creating a value chain in the livestock industry.
He said: “We are here in Wase grazing reserve to launch the pilot scheme of the livestock transformation programme of the Federal Government and to demonstrate that this is possible under the leadership of President Bola Tinubu.
“We will construct mass housing for the herders and their families and earth dams for dry season irrigation of pasture so that once the animals are here, there will be no reason to leave this place for greener pastures.
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“We will also construct and equip veterinary clinics for the health of the animals and primary healthcare clinics for the families of the herders.
“It is going to be completely solarized; we will rely on renewable energy so as to also fight issues of climate change”, the minister added.
Maiha explained that his visit to Plateau State was also aimed at engaging critical stakeholders to ensure the smooth commencement of the National Livestock Transformation Programme, adding that a day before the launching of the programme, he met with the State Governor, the Royal Father the Gbong Gwom Jos, the Emir of Wase, and other key stakeholders to discuss the rollout of this programme.
According to him, the programme will not only support the livestock sector but also boost the state’s economy by attracting various agri-business investors.
The minister further clarified: “This grazing reserve covers about 100 hectares and will accommodate more than 20,000 cattle. With such a large number, we expect significant milk production, which will, in turn, attract milk processing companies to establish outlets here.
“Red meat processing factories will also come and set up cold rooms. Additionally, the solid waste from the animals will be harnessed to generate electricity and serve as organic fertilizer for farmers”, he added.
He promised that the Federal Government would construct road networks within the grazing reserve as part of the programme’s infrastructure development.
Speaking at the event, the Commissioner for Livestock Development, Veterinary Services and Fisheries in Plateau State, Dr. Sunday Akpa, said the initiative aligned with the state government’s efforts to boost the livestock industry, assuring that the state government will give the needed support to ensure the successful implementation of the programme.
