The Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN), a prominent umbrella organization for herders in Nigeria, believes that the livestock sector holds significant potential to revitalize Nigeria’s economy if properly harnessed.

Speaking on Channels Television’s Sunrise Daily programme, MACBAN President Baba Othman-Ngelzarma welcomed the creation of a new ministry for livestock development, announced recently by President Bola Tinubu.

He emphasized that Nigeria’s livestock potential remains largely untapped compared to neighboring countries.

Othman-Ngelzarma highlighted the sector’s capacity to create jobs and stimulate economic growth, citing Lagos as an example where approximately 6,000 cows are consumed daily, totaling 1.8 million cattle annually.

“The establishment of this ministry is a crucial step towards unlocking the vast economic opportunities within the livestock sector,” Othman-Ngelzarma remarked.

“If properly managed and developed, this sector has the potential to significantly transform our economy, potentially making it a cornerstone of national economic strategy.”

He expressed optimism that the newly established ministry would catalyze improvements in production, processing, transportation, management, and security aspects of the livestock industry in Nigeria.

“We commend the President for instituting this ministry at a pivotal moment,” Othman-Ngelzarma added.

“This move aligns with our long-standing advocacy, and we are encouraged by the prospect of realizing our aspirations under the Renewed Hope Agenda.”

The statements underscore MACBAN’s endorsement of the new ministry’s potential to usher in a new era of growth and development in Nigeria’s livestock sector.