By Mercy Aikoye
The House of Representatives is working to strengthen Nigeria’s livestock industry. The goal is to address longstanding issues, including unpaid compensation to farmers affected by avian influenza outbreaks.
The House Committee on Livestock Development held a public hearing on six livestock-related bills. Chairman Wale Raji said, “The hearings provide a platform for stakeholders to contribute ideas that will promote livestock development, boost productivity, and create jobs.”
The Committee is investigating unpaid compensation to bird flu-affected farmers. The government currently owes ₦498.7 million to 307 verified poultry farmers affected between 2021 and 2023.
Dr. Adeniyi Adedoyin, representing the Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Livestock Development, said, “Compensation has been ongoing since 2006, with various disbursements totaling billions of naira in phases up to 2019.” He attributed current delays to insufficient funding.
A new outbreak in Wukari, Taraba State, led to the culling of 2,050 birds. The government is reviewing compensation for affected farmers.
Hon. Bello Ka’oje said the proposed Federal College of Animal Husbandry, Ka’oje, will be a “specialized hub for innovation, research, and training in animal production.” The college aims to boost productivity, create jobs, and improve national food security.
Ka’oje emphasized that livestock development is vital for economic diversification and rural prosperity. Nigeria still ranks 94th in milk production and 33rd in meat production globally, despite its potential.
