The National Assembly Joint Committee on Livestock Development has raised concerns about the ₦11.8 billion budget allocation for the newly formed Federal Ministry of Livestock Development, describing it as inadequate for the ministry’s effective establishment.
The 2025 budget earmarks ₦10 billion for capital projects and ₦1.8 billion for overheads.
Ministry Faces Operational Challenges
During the budget defence session on Tuesday, Minister Idi Maiha, alongside senior officials and agency heads, outlined the ministry’s financial challenges.
Maiha noted that the ministry, created three months ago from the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security, currently operates out of temporary accommodations provided by the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation. Discussions are underway to secure permanent office space from the Federal Capital Territory administration.
The ministry also faces shortages in essential operational facilities and equipment.
Core Mandate and Strategic Goals
Maiha assured the committee that the budget would lay a foundation for the ministry’s activities, which include tackling climate change impacts, promoting economic opportunities in livestock development, and engaging youth and women in sustainable initiatives.
He emphasised plans to distribute capital projects across the geopolitical zones based on regional needs and attract both local and international investments. A national sensitisation campaign will also be launched to raise awareness about the ministry’s goals and initiatives.
Call for Supplementary Budget
The committee urged the minister to submit a supplementary budget to address the ministry’s financial gaps more comprehensively.
Wale Raji, Chairman of the House Committee on Livestock Development, queried the Presidential Implementation Committee’s level of support for the ministry, stressing the need for a robust budget to meet public expectations.
Senate Committee Chairman Musa Mustapha assured the ministry of continued support, stating:
“This meeting is just the beginning, but the ministry must accelerate its efforts and provide updates on its progress so we can offer the necessary interventions.”