Politics

Tinubu Praised as a Problem Solver for Tackling Livestock and Security Challenges

Published by Tope Fakinlede on July 23rd, 2025.

Tinubu Praised as a Problem Solver for Tackling Livestock and Security Challenges

Professor Attahiru Jega, former Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), has praised President Bola Ahmed Tinubu as a decisive leader addressing Nigeria’s national challenges—particularly in the area of livestock reform.

Speaking in Abuja on Tuesday at the 2025 edition of the Blueprint Impact Series and Awards, Jega described President Tinubu as a pragmatic problem solver committed to driving meaningful change through strategic policies. The annual event, hosted by Blueprint Newspapers Limited, celebrates individuals and organizations making a substantial difference in governance, business, and development.

Delivering a keynote titled “Exploring the Potentials of Livestock Exports in Nigeria: Challenges and Prospects,” Jega—who also serves as Special Adviser to the President on Livestock Reforms and National Coordinator of the Presidential Livestock Reform Initiative—highlighted the administration’s focus on turning long-standing crises into development opportunities.

Referring to the persistent clashes between herders and farmers, he noted:

“This initiative aims to convert conflict into opportunity. It goes beyond agriculture—it’s about strengthening national security, generating economic growth, and fostering long-term development. If managed well, this reform could significantly reduce rural conflict, lift millions out of poverty, and ensure food security.”

According to Jega, Nigeria’s livestock industry, valued at over $30 billion, has vast untapped potential due to chronic underinvestment and inefficiencies in the system. He stressed that the livestock sector plays a central role in rural livelihoods, nutrition, and regional trade but remains neglected.

Jega also pointed to Nigeria’s reliance on milk imports—costing the country up to $2 billion annually—as an unsustainable economic burden.

“Our continued dependence on imports—especially dairy—has held back agricultural transformation. By developing our domestic production capabilities, we can not only meet internal demands but also tap into export markets. The establishment of a Federal Ministry of Livestock Development is a bold and strategic step,” he said.

He commended President Tinubu for establishing the new ministry, describing it as a turning point for livestock development. The reform plan, he explained, is designed to build a sustainable, commercially-driven, and climate-smart livestock industry that can reduce conflict and attract investment.

Jega urged stakeholders—including government bodies, private investors, and professionals in the livestock industry—to collaborate in driving the reform agenda forward.

“To achieve real transformation, we must align policy with execution. This includes strengthening veterinary services, enhancing breed quality, improving feed production, and building the infrastructure needed for storage and transport,” he added.

He emphasized that with the right support, Nigeria could become a major player in livestock exports and serve as a model for resolving conflict through economic opportunity.

Also in attendance was Senator George Akume, Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), who chaired the occasion. Akume praised the media’s role in nation-building, calling it the “moral compass” of society and an essential driver of democratic accountability.

He noted that the newly created Ministry of Livestock Development aligns with the Tinubu administration’s economic goals, particularly in boosting industrialization, employment, and rural prosperity.

“Nigeria already exports large numbers of livestock annually, yet we’ve only begun to scratch the surface. There are enormous prospects in meat, dairy, and value-chain development,” Akume remarked.

Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr. Dele Alake, also addressed the gathering, urging journalists to maintain professionalism amidst the rise of misinformation.

He echoed Jega’s call for a transition from traditional open grazing to modern ranching systems, emphasizing that such a shift would reduce tension and unlock significant economic value.

The event brought together policymakers, business leaders, technocrats, and development partners, all focused on advancing solutions that can reshape Nigeria’s future.