From MG Gazali
The Federal Government of Nigeria has taken a significant step towards transforming the country’s livestock sector and empowering rural communities with the laying of the foundation stone for the Livestock Development Service Centre in Wamakko Local Government Area of Sokoto State.
The Minister of Livestock Development, Honourable Idi Mukhtar Maiha, described the project as a strategic intervention aimed at strengthening veterinary services, improving animal husbandry practices, enhancing productivity, and expanding the livestock value chain across the North-West and beyond.
According to him, the centre will serve as a hub for veterinary care, livestock training, breed improvement services, and youth empowerment, providing vital support to pastoralists and farmers in the region.
Hon Muktari Maiha highlighted the government’s broader efforts to reposition the livestock subsector, align projects with national development plans, and create economic opportunities for rural communities.
He reiterated the Ministry’s ambition to integrate such service centres into a nationwide network that supports commercial livestock systems, combats animal diseases, and fosters sustainable agricultural growth.
The Minister expressed gratitude to the World Bank for their support to the project. “We are grateful for the World Bank’s support to the Livestock Development Programme,” he said. “We look forward to continuing our partnership with the World Bank and other development partners to promote the development of the livestock sector in Nigeria.”
Dr. Muhammad Sanusi, National Coordinator, Livestock Development Programme, commended the Minister for his vision and leadership in driving the livestock development agenda in Nigeria.
“The Livestock Development Service Centre is a critical component of our national livestock development strategy,” he said. “It will provide a platform for livestock farmers and pastoralists to access modern technology, training, and markets, which will improve their productivity and income. We are confident that this project will have a positive impact on the lives of millions of Nigerians who depend on livestock for their livelihoods.”
Sokoto State Governor, Dr. Ahmad Aliyu, in his remarks,welcomed the federal intervention, noting that the Livestock Development Service Centre will complement state-led agricultural reforms and boost food security, job creation, and youth participation in agribusiness across Sokoto communities.
“The project will not only create employment opportunities for our people but also support our pastoralists and boost our state’s economy,” he said.
The Governor also highlighted the state government’s efforts to tackle banditry, which has been a major challenge to livestock production in the state. “We are working tirelessly to ensure the security of our farmers and pastoralists, and we have made significant progress in recent times,” he added.
Governor Aliyu thanked the Federal Government for choosing Sokoto State as the location for the Livestock Development Service Centre, describing the project as a game-changer for the state. “It will provide our livestock farmers and pastoralists with access to modern veterinary services, breeding stock, and training, which will improve their productivity and income,” he said.
“We are committed to working with the Federal Government and other stakeholders to ensure the success of this project and to promote the development of the livestock sector in Sokoto State.”
Local livestock herders and community representatives praised the initiative, expressing optimism that the centre will facilitate access to essential services, improve livestock health outcomes, and open new economic avenues for smallholder farmers.
The project is expected to attract partnerships with private sector players, development agencies, and educational institutions, reinforcing the Federal Government’s push to modernize Nigeria’s livestock industry while addressing longstanding gaps in veterinary infrastructure and training.
