The National Assembly Joint Committee on Livestock Development has raised concerns over the proposed ₦11.8 billion budget allocation for the newly established Federal Ministry of Livestock Development, deeming it insufficient for the ministry’s effective takeoff.
The Federal Government allocated ₦10 billion for capital expenditure and ₦1.8 billion for overhead costs in the ministry’s 2025 budget. During the budget defense session on Tuesday, Minister Idi Maiha, accompanied by senior officials from the ministry and agency heads, presented the financial requirements to the committee.
Maiha explained that the ministry, which was separated from the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security, began operations three months ago but is facing major challenges, including a lack of office space, facilities, and essential equipment. Currently, the ministry is operating temporarily from the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, with ongoing discussions with the Federal Capital Territory administration to secure a permanent office space.
Despite the budgetary constraints, Maiha expressed optimism that the allocated funds would provide a foundation for the ministry’s establishment. He emphasized the ministry’s primary mandate to address the impacts of climate change, generate economic opportunities within the livestock sector, and engage youth and women in sustainable initiatives.
Maiha also revealed that capital projects would be allocated across the country’s geopolitical zones according to specific needs, and outlined plans to attract both local and foreign investments. Additionally, he mentioned the ministry’s intention to launch a nationwide sensitization campaign through both national and local media to increase awareness of its objectives and initiatives.
In response, the joint committee urged the minister to submit a supplementary budget that more accurately reflects the ministry’s full financial requirements. Wale Raji, Chairman of the House Committee on Livestock Development, questioned the level of support from the Presidential Implementation Committee and called for a stronger budget to meet public expectations.
Senate Committee Chairman, Musa Mustapha, assured the ministry of the committee’s support in achieving its mandate, adding, “This meeting is an important first step, but the ministry must accelerate its efforts and provide progress reports on the challenges identified so that we can offer the necessary interventions.”
