The Federal Government’s announcement of a possible creation of Ministry of Livestock Development has sparked widespread criticism and confusion among Nigerians.

Last week, the President announced the possible creation of the Ministry of Livestock Development at the State House, Abuja, during the inauguration of the Renewed Hope Livestock Reform Implementation Committee.

The announcement was met with widespread disapproval by Nigerians who believe that Nigeria needed no such ministry different from Agric ministry.

The major point of controversy is due to lack of clarity surrounding its responsibilities, and the perceived overlap with existing ministries.

It is also believed that at a time Nigeria grapples with numerous challenges, the government must prioritise transparency, accountability, and good governance over political patronage and cronyism.

Critics argue that the creation of the ministry of livestock development will amount to a duplication of efforts with the ministry of agriculture.

Another issue is the lack of clarity surrounding the specific responsibilities of the new ministry, which has fueled fears that the ministry may be used as a tool for political patronage.

The Federal Government had, in a State House release dated Tuesday, July 9, 2024, and signed by Ajuri Ngelale, special adviser to the President on media and publicity, disclosed that the presidential committee on implementation of Livestock Reforms was to address obstacles to agricultural productivity and open up new opportunities to benefit farmers, herders, processors, and distributors in the livestock-farming value chain.

The President appointed former chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Attahiru Jega, as co-chairman of the committee.

Tinubu noted that the traditional method of livestock farming will need to be reviewed and repositioned with the support of stakeholders, which include state governments, in order to open up new opportunities for growth and prosperity.

“The dairy industry contributes significantly to nutrition and food security by supplying essential proteins and vitamins, through milk and its derivatives, such as cheese, yoghurt, and butter.

“Efficient cold-chain logistics is crucial in maintaining the quality and safety of these perishable goods from farms to markets, thereby reducing food waste and ensuring a steady supply,” the statement read.

Olarotimi Ogungbemi, a United State-based researcher told BusinessDay Sunday: “I view the creation of the Ministry of Livestock by the Nigerian Federal Government as a significant step towards addressing the longstanding and complex issues surrounding the herders-farmers crisis in Nigeria.”

According to him, the initiative represents a structured approach to managing the conflicts that have arisen due to the overlapping interests of farmers and herders over land and water resources, which are increasingly scarce due to various environmental and socio-economic factors.

He further said that establishing a dedicated ministry for livestock underscores the government’s commitment to not only regulate but also to sustainably develop and manage livestock resources, which are vital for both economic and nutritional reasons in Nigeria.

“It is crucial, however, that this new ministry operates with a clear mandate to foster dialogue and cooperation between all stakeholders, including local communities, herders, farmers, environmental groups, and regional government bodies.

“The ministry should prioritise the implementation of innovative, inclusive, and sustainable agricultural practices that balance the needs of herders and farmers, reduce conflict, and enhance productivity.

“This includes the development of grazing reserves that are environmentally sustainable, promoting the use of technology in livestock management, and ensuring equitable access to resources,” Ogungbemi said.