By Chiangi Avese, Makurdi
Benue State Government (BNSG) has begun taking significant steps towards setting the stage for actualizing Livestock development in the state as contained in the administration’s blueprint and policy papers.
A statement by Sir Tersoo Kula, Chief Press Secretary to the Benue State Governor in Makurdi on Thursday said the establishment in 2024 of the Bureau of Livestock Development and Transboundary Animal Diseases Control (BLDTDC) was to indeed drive and lead international and private sector initiatives in the livestock industry.
According to the statement, “the government has itemized 15 state-owned livestock facilities in various conditions of neglect and disrepair, including Ikyôgen Cattle Ranch and Resort, Livestock Investigation and Breeding Centre in Raav, Small Ruminant Ranch in Ningev, Benue Swine and Crop Improvement Project (BSCIP) in Yandev, and the Artificial Insemination Centre in Gaadi, among others. These facilities are critical to boosting livestock production and economic advancement in the state”.
“Far-reaching resolutions shortly after the just concluded maiden Benue State Livestock Summit recommended and made proposals to strengthen the livestock sector. The Benue State Development Plan (BSDP) 2025-2035 and the administration’s seven “SACHIIP” strategic pillars provide clear policy directions, including the establishment of feed mills and hatcheries across the senatorial zones, as well as the development of cattle, sheep, and goat ranches”, the statement pointed out.
The statement averred that the State government is in collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Livestock Development, a move aimed at solidifying Benue’s status as the Food Basket of the Nation, is also making strategic investments in livestock development through deliberate policies and practical actions, focusing on feed and fodder production, disease control, breed improvement, genetic enhancement, and capacity development. A notable reason why, Benue State will be taking part in a high-level livestock event in Denmark later in April 2025, along with the Minister of Livestock Development, Idi Mukhtar Maiha.
It said, “Governor Alia has reaffirmed his unwavering commitment to reviving and maximizing the potential of Benue’s livestock facilities and the full implementation of the Open Grazing Prohibition and Establishment of Ranches Law (2017). He condemns attempts by certain individuals, politicians, and groups to distort facts and hinder progress through misinformation and political distractions”.
“The government remains fully committed to collaborating with federal authorities and international partners to advance the livestock sector, aligning with the vision of past administrations dedicated to genuine development of the livestock sector”, the statement enthused.
The statement revealed that, the Benue Agricultural Revolution Programme (BARP), an agricultural think tank, has over 50 private and commercial livestock farms/facilities profiled for intervention in areas such as rehabilitation, production enhancement, and capacity building. Particular consideration is being given to piggery, poultry, and fishery production.
“Efforts are also underway to establish Benue as a Special Piggery Processing Zone, with the revamp of the Benue Swine and Crop Improvement Project (BSCIP) receiving technical consideration as well. This project is expected to reach full capacity, producing thousands of sows and piglets annually for farmers in Benue and beyond”.
The government invites citizens, communities, investors, and partners to participate in the ongoing revival and expansion of the livestock sector. Proposals and investment ideas are welcome in line with the administration’s ease of doing business policies. The Bureau of Livestock Development and Transboundary Animal Diseases Control has already begun activities aimed at addressing livestock insecurity, creating wealth, and employment generation.
To ensure inclusive participation, the government, working with livestock industry players, will facilitate detailed stakeholder engagements and town hall meetings from 20th April to the end of May 2025 to align policy actions with community and investor expectations.
Livestock development in Benue plays a distant second position to crop production, and there must be deliberate government investment to up the ante for the overall good of all Benue citizens who shall own and drive the process.
