Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq of Kwara commended President Bola Tinubu for his bold initiatives to promote livestock development and end the persistent herders-farmers conflicts across communities. He highlighted the recent inauguration of the livestock reforms implementation committee and the establishment of the Ministry for Livestock Development as historic efforts to transform the agricultural landscape and enhance food security sustainably.
In a speech delivered on his behalf by his Counselor and Senior Advisor, Sa’adu Salaudeen, at the launch of the National Animal Identification Traceability System (NAITS) for the state, organized by the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security, the governor expressed his appreciation for these significant steps. He noted that President Tinubu’s inauguration of the livestock reforms committee and the creation of the Ministry for Livestock Development have generated national excitement about the future of livestock value chains and the potential to end the recurrent clashes between herders and farmers.
Governor AbdulRazaq also praised the Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Sen. Abubakar Kyari, and his team for their dedication to transforming the agricultural sector and supporting economic diversification. He pledged to support the agricultural initiative by facilitating the construction and equipping of the Kwara NAITS center and called for further collaboration with the federal government, particularly in developing irrigation for year-round farming and agricultural mechanization.
Sen. Abdullahi emphasized that NAITS is part of President Tinubu’s national livestock transformation programs aimed at reducing cattle rustling, minimizing farmers-herders clashes, and fostering peaceful coexistence in the country. He highlighted the administration’s efforts to develop the livestock industry to meet domestic demands and eventually export to foreign markets. Abdullahi called on key stakeholders to view NAITS as a beneficial initiative and praised Governor AbdulRazaq for his commitment to agricultural development in Kwara State.
The state Commissioner for Agriculture and Rural Development, Oloruntoyosi Thomas, affirmed that the state government would continue leveraging technology and innovation to drive agricultural transformation. She emphasized that NAITS is a critical tool for agricultural excellence and highlighted its potential to improve farmers’ livelihoods, enhance food production, facilitate access to new markets and finance, and reduce poverty.