Taraba establishes Livestock Development Commission
Following the establishment of a Livestock Development Commission by Governor Agbu Kefas after signing its bill into law, the Taraba State Government is to construct field schools and develop pastures for seed multiplication. The governor said the commission was an important step in the ongoing efforts to strengthen livestock productivity, promote climate smart practices and […]
Following the establishment of a Livestock Development Commission by Governor Agbu Kefas after signing its bill into law, the Taraba State Government is to construct field schools and develop pastures for seed multiplication.
The governor said the commission was an important step in the ongoing efforts to strengthen livestock productivity, promote climate smart practices and improve the livelihood of farmers and pastoral communities across the state.
When it fully takes off, the commission is expected to enhance and develop the livestock potential of Taraba State and encourage the best modern approach to livestock production through ranching and pasture production for animal feeds.
Governor Kefas also said the commission would strengthen farm-herder relation, create employment opportunities and position the state as a learning hub for sustainable livestock production in the country.
In readiness for the takeoff of the commission, biddings have been conducted for the award of the construction of field schools and the development of pastures for seed multiplication.
The project is to be carried out through the state livestock productivity and resilience support project.
Speaking on the importance of a livestock development commission, the state project coordinator, Mr Hananiah Albert, said it would further develop livestock production and enhance value chain in the sector.
He said the facilities to be delivered through the award of the construct would serve as practical learning and innovation centres for sustainable livestock development.
Meanwhile, the governor has approved the appointment of the chairman and members of the Taraba State Livestock Development Commission.
The commission is to be chaired by Dr Dauda Abubakar Muhammad, while members are Dr Tirmidhi Aliyu Baba, Bujuje Akape Danjuma, Dr Aisha Bashir Ardo and the permanent secretary.
Also to serve in the commission are representatives of selected ministries, departments, agencies and unions, among others, who are not below the rank of a director.
The ministries are finance, budget and economic planning, agriculture and food security, health, justice, environment, education, commerce, trade and industry.
Others are the Taraba Geographic Information System (TAGIS), Taraba State Marshal Security Guards, the Nigeria Police Force, Myetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria, All Farmers Association of Nigeria and cattle breeders.
Other representatives are a female for livestock farmers, butchers, diary or farmers association in the state, as well as traditional rulers.
Taraba State has the highest number of livestock in the country.
Weekend Trust reports that Mambilla Plateau in Sardauna Local Government Area of the state, which has semi temperate climate, has the highest concentration of livestock in the state.
The area has an availability of pasture and rivers, with flowing water all the year, which promotes and sustain livestock production.