State’s Commitment to Livestock Development
The Benue State Government, under the leadership of Governor Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Iormem Alia, has unveiled a strategic initiative to rehabilitate abandoned livestock facilities and strengthen the state’s agricultural sector. This move aligns with efforts to resolve the persistent farmer-herder crisis while maximizing Benue’s agricultural potential.
In an official statement, Sir Tersoo Kula, the Chief Press Secretary to the Executive Governor, emphasized the administration’s commitment to prioritizing livestock development as a key driver of economic growth. According to Kula, the initiative is part of the state’s agricultural transformation blueprint and policy framework.
Restoration of Key Livestock Facilities
The government has identified and mapped out 15 state-owned livestock facilities currently in poor condition, including:
- Ikyôgen Cattle Ranch and Resort
- Livestock Investigation and Breeding Centre in Raav
- Small Ruminant Ranch in Ningev
- Benue Swine and Crop Improvement Project (BSCIP) in Yandev
- Artificial Insemination Centre in Gaadi
These facilities will undergo significant rehabilitation to improve livestock production and boost the state’s economy.
Benue Livestock Summit and Policy Direction
In March 2025, the state successfully hosted the first Benue State Livestock Summit in Makurdi, where key stakeholders presented resolutions to strengthen the livestock sector.
The Benue State Development Plan (BSDP) 2025-2035, along with the administration’s seven strategic pillars (SACHIIP), outlines plans to establish feed mills, hatcheries, and specialized ranches for cattle, sheep, and goats across the three senatorial zones of the state.
Strategic Investments in Livestock Agriculture
To uphold Benue’s title as the Food Basket of the Nation, the government is making targeted investments in livestock development through practical policy implementations. These include:
- Establishing feed and fodder production centers
- Strengthening disease control mechanisms
- Enhancing livestock breeding and genetic improvement
- Capacity-building programs for farmers and ranchers
Additionally, the state will participate in a high-level livestock development event in Denmark in April 2025, led by the Minister of Livestock Development, Idi Mukhtar Maiha.
Government’s Stance on Open Grazing and Political Interference
Governor Alia has reaffirmed his commitment to implementing the Open Grazing Prohibition and Ranches Establishment Law (2017). He has condemned any attempts by individuals or political groups to distort facts and hinder progress through misinformation.
The administration remains dedicated to collaborating with federal agencies and international development partners to achieve a sustainable livestock sector.
Private Sector Involvement and Expansion Plans
Under the Benue Agricultural Revolution Programme (BARP), over 50 private and commercial livestock farms have been earmarked for government intervention. Support will be provided in areas such as:
- Facility rehabilitation
- Livestock production enhancement
- Capacity-building initiatives
Particular emphasis is being placed on piggery, poultry, and fishery production. Plans are also underway to establish Benue as a Special Piggery Processing Zone, with a renewed focus on the Benue Swine and Crop Improvement Project (BSCIP). Once fully operational, this initiative will produce thousands of sows and piglets annually for farmers in Benue and beyond.
Conclusion
The Benue State Government’s renewed focus on livestock development is a critical step in addressing food security, economic growth, and conflict resolution between farmers and herders. With a well-structured roadmap, strategic investments, and collaboration with key stakeholders, the state is poised to transform its livestock sector and solidify its position as a leading agricultural hub in Nigeria.
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