Jega, Ex-INEC Boss, to Co-Chair Tinubu's Livestock Reforms Committee
Tinubu Appoints Jega to Lead Livestock Reforms Implementation Committee
President Tinubu launches Presidential Committee on Implementation of Livestock Reforms, appoints Prof. Attahiru Jega as co-chairman, to boost agricultural productivity, create new opportunities, and benefit farmers, herders, processors, and distributors.
The Presidential Committee on Implementation of Livestock Reforms was formally established by President Bola Tinubu on Tuesday. Its goals are to remove barriers to agricultural productivity and create new opportunities that would benefit processors, distributors, farmers, and herders along the value chain of livestock farming.
Professor Attahiru Jega, the former chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), was named co-chairman of the committee by the president.
Tinubu stressed that the committee's members—who are recruited from the public and commercial sectors, state governors, and all Nigerians—must work together to achieve the reforms.
“From here, I will appeal to everyone to remove every iota of partisan politics from this. I will assume the chairmanship of the committee as President and appoint Professor Attahiru Jega as my deputy or co-chair.
“This is not about politics; this is about opportunity. This is about our nation. While I may be absent, Jega will preside and continue to promote our objectives,” the President said.
The National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress, Dr. Abdullahi Ganduje, was thanked by the President at the committee's inaugural meeting in the State House's Council Chamber for his efforts in bringing together knowledgeable and trustworthy professionals to guarantee the activation of opportunities in the livestock sector. The President also announced the creation of a Ministry of Livestock Development to further investigate the potential in the field.
“When we have great opportunities in our states, why should Nigerians continue to experience conflicts?
“With the calibre of people that are here, this presents a unique opportunity also to delineate and establish a centric ministry called the Ministry of Livestock Development. It will give us the opportunity so that our veterinary doctors can have the necessary access to research and cross-breed. We can stop the wanton killings,” President Tinubu stated.
The President pointed out that in order to create new chances for development and prosperity, the conventional approach to livestock farming will need to be examined and repositioned with the help of stakeholders, including state governments.
According to Tinubu, Bosun Tijani, the minister of communication, innovation, and the digital economy, will assist with automation, while Lateef Fagbemi (SAN), the attorney general of the Federation and minister of justice, will see to it that all legal barriers to the implementation of the reforms are removed.
“Modern technology is available to us. We are ready to work. I said at the beginning, with you, all of you, the solution is here, and we must run with it. Any law that might inhibit the promotion and actualization of our objectives, the Attorney-General is here, please give it a priority; and the Minister of Budget and Economic Planning is here; create a budget for it to grow, and the Minister of Finance is here as well to work out the money,” the President stated.
The President also urged the assistance of all stakeholders, stating that the reforms will be comprehensive and group-wide.
“We need to provide the incentive to enable Nigeria to finally take advantage of livestock farming; dairy products and cold-chain logistics collectively offer substantial commercial and economic advantages. We have seen solutions and opportunities. With these adversities that have plagued us over the years, I believe that prosperity is here - in your hands.
“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.
“This sector will boost agricultural productivity, enhance export opportunities and stimulate economic growth by fostering a robust value chain that benefits farmers, processors, herders, distributors, and consumers alike,” the President said.
Tinubu expressed gratitude to the APC National Chairman for spearheading the committee's efforts and leadership.
“Let me thank the former Governor of Kano State and the National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress, Dr. Abdullahi Ganduje, for assembling the best minds and experts to find solutions by convening the National Conference on Livestock Reforms and Mitigation of Associated Conflicts in Nigeria in February last year,” the President said.
The former committee chairman commended the president in his speech for moving forward with the livestock changes after a report was sent in on September 28, 2023.
“We will surpass your expectations and bring succour to Nigerians. Once, again, we thank the President,” the APC National Chairman added.
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