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Livestock industry is key priority, by Ministry

The Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security has said the development of the livestock industry is a key priority of the government as it contributes greatly to the country's Gross Domestic Product (GDP).

Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Dr Ernest Umakhihe stated this during the distribution of palliatives to flood affected farmers in the Federal Capital Territory.

 Umakhihe, who was represented by the Director of Special Duty at the Ministry, Mrs Fausat Lawal, noted that the livestock industry is growing rapidly which needs attention of all relevant stakeholders for its growth and development.

The permanent secretary, who said the distribution of palliatives to the farmers was aimed at cushioning the devastating flood on their farm, will increase production and address the high cost of feed.

He said: ''The President is concerned about food security and we are not only here to share palliative but to also have a discussion with you on your needs, problems you are facing and also speak to you on the latest development in the field of animal husbandry.

 ''We are here to show concern to the farmers affected by climate change. The palliative will not replace all they lost but will go a long way in cushioning the effect of the flood.”

He however said the ministry is working on interventions to address the plight of livestock farmers so as to encourage them in contributing to the country's food system.

Also, the director, Animal Husbandary Services, Mrs Winnie Lai-Solarin called on livestock farmers to insure their farms so as to avoid huge loss.

She assured of the ministry's readiness to work with them.

The Nation reports that the ministry distributed poultry feeds, transport crates, pig feeds, disinfectant ruminant concentrates and salt lick palliatives materials to about 400 farmers affected by flood.