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Wale Raji Laments Livestock Import Dependency, Vows Sectoral Transformation
Chairman of the House Committee on Livestock, Hon. Wale Raji, has expressed deep concern over Nigeria’s inability to meet its domestic livestock consumption needs, citing significant foreign exchange losses due to heavy reliance on imports.
Speaking at the inaugural meeting of the Committee in Abuja on Wednesday, Raji pledged to spearhead reforms aimed at revitalizing the sector, which he described as critical to the nation’s food security and economic diversification.
“You would recall that on the 2nd of October 2024 at plenary, the Speaker announced the creation of the House Committee on Livestock Development.
“This followed the establishment of the Federal Ministry of Livestock Development by Mr. President as the first step towards implementing the recommendations of the Presidential Committee on Livestock Development,” Raji said.
Raji lamented the sector’s long-standing neglect by successive administrations despite its immense contributions to the economy.
“Nigeria produces 563 million chickens, 58 million cattle, 124 million goats, 60 million sheep, and 16 million pigs annually, making it the leading livestock producer in West Africa.
“Yet, we are far from meeting domestic consumption needs, forcing the nation to spend vast amounts of foreign exchange on livestock imports,” he stated.
He emphasized the sector’s potential for food security, economic growth, and wealth creation, calling for a collective commitment to address its challenges.
“Our nation stands at the precipice of extraordinary opportunity. It is our responsibility to ensure the livestock sector is transformed into a driver of prosperity and sustainability,” Raji said.
Committee’s Mandate
The Committee’s oversight extends to the Federal Ministry of Livestock Development and its technical departments, including:
Animal Husbandry Services (Dairy, Beef, Poultry, Swine, Sheep, and Goats).
Ranch and Pastoral Resources Development.
Animal Feed and Fodder Development.
Livestock Technology and Value Chain Development.
Veterinary Services (Health, Epidemiology, Food Safety, and Quality Assurance).
Additionally, the Committee is tasked with overseeing institutions such as the Veterinary Council of Nigeria (VCN), Nigeria Institute of Animal Science (NIAS), and several research institutes, including the National Animal Production Research Institute (NAPRI) and the National Veterinary Research Institute (NVRI).
Raji affirmed the Committee’s commitment to delivering impactful results through transparency, diligence, and collaboration with key stakeholders.
“This is a pivotal moment to reposition the livestock sector for a future of prosperity and sustainability,” he added.
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