By Israel Adamu, Jos
In a landmark stride toward transforming Nigeria’s agricultural landscape, the Honourable Minister of Livestock Development, Dr. Idi Mukhtar Maiha, has officially launched the Wase Grazing Lot in Plateau State.
The unveiling ceremony, held at the Government House, Little Rayfield, Jos, marks a major milestone in advancing livestock development and fostering peaceful coexistence in Plateau and beyond.
While presenting the Wase Feeding Lot System, the Minister underscored the Federal Government’s commitment to repositioning the livestock sector into a modern, productive, and resilient driver of Nigeria’s agricultural economy.
“This initiative is a joint effort between the Federal Ministry of Livestock Development and the Plateau State Government to establish a Livestock Village,” the Minister stated.
“The facility will include pasture irrigation systems for both wet and dry seasons, a veterinary clinic, a primary health care centre, basic education facilities, staff accommodation, and a security post.
With proper implementation, we anticipate the production of high-quality milk for both domestic and international markets.”
Welcoming the Federal delegation, Plateau State Governor, His Excellency, Barr. Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang, commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s foresight in establishing the Ministry of Livestock Development, noting that the initiative addresses long-standing sectoral challenges and opens new avenues for economic growth.
“This is a visionary step whose time has come,” Governor Mutfwang declared. “At the inception of the Ministry, some had their doubts.
But today, what has been unveiled shows a clear and strategic roadmap—not only for boosting our GDP but also for job creation and entrepreneurship.
The livestock value chain is enormous. If properly harnessed, we could build a billion-dollar livestock economy right here in Plateau State.”
The Governor further emphasized the initiative’s potential to significantly reduce insecurity, especially the persistent violent attacks that have plagued many communities.
“If we can properly address issues around pastoral livestock practices, we will eliminate a major root cause of insecurity. The friction between farmers and herders will no longer exist. This initiative provides a path toward the peace we have long yearned for,” he stated.
Governor Caleb Mutfwang also highlighted ongoing state-level interventions aimed at modernizing livestock infrastructure, including the planned remodeling of the Jos abattoir to handle up to 500 cattle daily. He reiterated the state’s readiness to align with the Federal Government’s livestock development vision.
“This is a day of joy and a divine moment for Plateau State,” the Governor said. “Our institutions, researchers, and citizens are fully prepared to collaborate in driving Nigeria’s livestock transformation.”
The Governor expressed appreciation to Dr. Kingsley, a long-time technical partner, for his unwavering support toward Plateau’s agricultural growth, particularly the introduction of Napier grass as a sustainable animal feed option.
