The Minister of Livestock Development, Mr. Idi Maiha, on Thursday inaugurated animal artificial insemination and livestock care centres in Sokoto State, aimed at boosting livestock production and improving veterinary services.
Maiha described the centres as a strategic intervention designed to strengthen animal husbandry practices and enhance productivity. He said the remodeled veterinary hospital would provide quality care, diagnostics, and infrastructure development for a sustainable livestock sector.
The minister also launched a national mass vaccination campaign for livestock, aimed at preventing the spread of diseases and improving animal health for greater economic benefits.
“The centres will serve as hubs for veterinary care, livestock training, breed improvement, and youth empowerment, providing vital support to pastoralists and farmers in the region,” he explained.
Maiha highlighted the Federal Government’s broader efforts to reposition the livestock subsector, align projects with national development plans, and create economic opportunities for rural communities. He emphasized plans to integrate these centres into a nationwide network to support commercial livestock systems, combat animal diseases, and promote sustainable agricultural growth.
He expressed gratitude to the World Bank for supporting the Livestock Development Programme, tagged Livestock Productivity and Resilience Support Project (L-Press), in collaboration with the Federal Government.
“We look forward to continuing our partnership with the World Bank and other development partners to advance the livestock sector in Nigeria,” he said.
The model veterinary hospital in Sokoto is the first of 20 expected under the L-Press initiative across the country, aimed at improving animal health and supporting farmers for sustainable livestock development.
Speaking at the event, Governor Ahmad Aliyu of Sokoto State lauded the Federal Government’s intervention, noting that the livestock service centre would complement state-led agricultural reforms. He expressed optimism that the reforms would enhance food security, create jobs, and encourage youth participation in agribusiness. The governor also highlighted ongoing efforts to tackle banditry, which has affected livestock production in the region.
Dr. Muhammad Sanusi, National Coordinator of the Livestock Development Programme, commended the minister for his vision and leadership in advancing Nigeria’s livestock development agenda. He said the project was expected to attract partnerships with private sector players, development agencies, and educational institutions, reinforcing the government’s commitment to modernizing the livestock industry and addressing gaps in veterinary infrastructure and training.
Sanusi added that the centres would benefit local livestock herders and community representatives, improve access to essential services, enhance animal health, and create new economic opportunities for farmers.
It was reported that equipment and agricultural commodities were distributed to train farmers and livestock breeders from different communities in Sokoto State under the L-Press initiative.
