President Bola Tinubu’s decision to establish the Ministry of Livestock Development has sparked mixed reactions among stakeholders.
Constitutional lawyer Madubuachi Idam views Tinubu’s move as redundant and a misuse of funds during a period of economic hardship. Idam argues that integrating the new ministry’s responsibilities into the existing Ministry of Agriculture, particularly through the Nigerian Agricultural Quarantine Service, would suffice to handle livestock-related issues and farmer-herder conflicts effectively.
Idam emphasized, “The creation of the Ministry of Livestock Development is unnecessary and represents a waste of public resources. The Ministry of Agriculture already possesses the capacity to manage livestock and address the challenges between herders and farmers.”
He further asserted that the fundamental issue lies not in the absence of a dedicated ministry but in the government’s lack of willpower and adequate knowledge to resolve the underlying conflicts effectively.
Regarding the political implications of Tinubu’s decision, Yerima Shettima, National President of the Arewa Youth Consultative Forum, expressed optimism. He welcomed the establishment of the new ministry, viewing it as a positive step towards mitigating the perennial farmer-herder crisis. Shettima believes that having a specific ministry will enable more focused policy interventions and accountability in resolving the ongoing challenges.
Shettima stated, “The creation of the Ministry of Livestock and its responsibilities are crucial for addressing the issues between farmers and herders. This initiative demonstrates the government’s commitment to finding lasting solutions and fostering development.”
Similarly, Ibrahim Bayero Zango, Director of Media and Strategy at MACBAN in Kaduna State, supported the ministry’s establishment, refuting claims of wasteful spending. Zango argued that with proper funding and strategic development of grazing reserves, the ministry could gradually reduce conflicts and enhance livestock productivity.
He explained, “The Ministry of Livestock Development will play a significant role in minimizing conflicts between farmers and herders over time. Government neglect of the livestock sector necessitated this step, and if implemented effectively, it will yield considerable benefits.”
Okechukwu Isiguzoro, factional Secretary-General of Ohanaeze, offered a nuanced perspective, viewing the ministry as a targeted solution rather than a duplication of efforts. Isiguzoro highlighted the failure of the Ministry of Agriculture to adequately address farmer-herder clashes, suggesting that the new ministry could fill this gap.
Isiguzoro remarked, “The creation of the Ministry of Livestock Development is not duplication but a focused response to the inadequacies of the Ministry of Agriculture. It represents a strategic move to address specific challenges, particularly in regions like the Southeast affected by agitation and insecurity.”
Afenifere, the Yoruba pan-sociocultural organization, cautiously welcomed the initiative, acknowledging its potential to resolve conflicts while urging the government to ensure its effectiveness without compromising local interests.
In summary, while opinions vary on the establishment of the Ministry of Livestock Development, stakeholders recognize its potential to address longstanding challenges in the agricultural sector, particularly the farmer-herder crisis. The effectiveness of this new ministry will depend on its implementation and ability to deliver tangible results in improving livestock management and mitigating conflicts across Nigeria.
DAilyPost