President Bola Tinubu has directed the Federal Ministry of Livestock Development to undertake an on-the-spot assessment of the impact of the disaster on the livestock sub-sector in the state.
Dr. Chinyere Akujobi, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry made this known during a courtesy call on the Borno State Governor, Professor Babagana Zulum.
According to Akujobi, “the urgency and concern expressed by President Tinubu highlights the government’s commitment towards ameliorating the consequences of the disaster on the livestock industry.”
The Permanent Secretary Akujobi said in furtherance of the President’s directive, an Expert Working Group (EWG) was set up by the Ministry and accompanied her on the Mission to Borno. The group is tasked with undertaking detailed, on the spot assessment of the extent of damage wreaked on the livestock sector, while preferring immediate, short, medium and long-term measures aimed at supporting stakeholders in the livestock sub-sector.
The delegation’s interactions included meetings with Governor Zulum and the Emir of Borno, who both recognized the challenges faced by the community and emphasized the importance of revitalizing the livestock sector.
During discussions with representatives from different segments of the livestock value chain, the delegation learned about the hardships experienced by livestock farmers, poultry producers, and others in the industry. These stakeholders shared their stories of loss and called for government support to help them rebuild their livelihoods and sustain their families.
To address the immediate needs of livestock farmers, the Livestock Productivity and Resilience Support Project (LPRES) is setting up a model veterinary hospital.
This facility is expected to provide veterinary care, act as an Emergency Operation Center, offer training opportunities, and support private veterinary practices. These initiatives aim to enhance the resilience of the livestock sector and ensure the well-being of animals.
The Ministry has also commenced discussions with the African Development Bank (AfDB) to procure its support for Borno state’s livestock sector’s recovery process.
The EWG includes veterinarians, animal scientists, journalists, as well as other critical stakeholders. “The assessment process will contribute valuable insights for developing effective interventions to assist the livestock sub-sector’s post-disaster recovery.”
The Permanent Secretary noted that, as efforts progress, collaboration among varied stakeholders – Government (both federal, state and local), Private Sector and the Development Partner community – to facilitate the recovery and sustainable development of the livestock industry in Borno state.
“By uniting and implementing holistic solutions, we can aid in rebuilding the lives and livelihoods of affected livestock farmers, contributing to the resilience and well-being of the community at large,” Akujobi added.
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