The National Economic Council (NEC) has constituted a committee to fast-track the implementation of Nigeria’s livestock development programme, aimed at boosting food security and addressing the long-standing farmer–herder crisis.
The decision was taken on Wednesday during the 155th meeting of the Council, held virtually and chaired by Vice President Kashim Shettima.
Vice President Shettima said achieving food security in Nigeria requires a practical, enduring and nationally accepted solution to the farmer–herder conflict, which he described as a major threat to rural livelihoods and national stability.
The newly constituted committee will work with key stakeholders to drive the implementation of livestock production reforms. It comprises representatives from the six geo-political zones: Bauchi (North-East), Niger (North-Central), Ondo (South-West), Imo (South-East), Cross River (South-South), and Kebbi (North-West), with Kebbi State Governor appointed as Chairman.
Other members include the Ministers of Livestock Development; Agriculture and Food Security; Budget and Economic Planning; as well as the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Agribusiness.
NEC directed the committee to review recommendations of the Presidential Livestock Reform Committee and proposals from the Ministry of Livestock Development, as well as identify interested states for programme implementation.
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President Bola Ahmed Tinubu had earlier directed NEC to collaborate with the Ministry of Livestock Development to produce a roadmap for transforming Nigeria’s livestock industry into a modern and commercially viable sector.
Addressing council members, Vice President Shettima said the farmer–herder crisis, if left unresolved, would continue to undermine food production, peace and national cohesion.
He urged state governors to fully engage with the livestock development proposals, noting that the creation of a dedicated Ministry of Livestock Development underscores the administration’s commitment to reforming the sector.
