N11.8bn Budget Too Low for Livestock Ministry’s Take-Off – NASS Sounds the Alarm

The Federal Ministry of Livestock Development is in the spotlight. And honestly, it’s not all rainbows and sunshine.

The National Assembly Joint Committee on Livestock Development just gave a major side-eye to the N11.8 billion budget proposed for this newly created ministry. Why? Because it’s just not enough to get this baby off the ground.

Here’s the lowdown: the ministry was allocated N10 billion for capital projects and another N1.8 billion for overhead in the 2025 budget. Sounds like a lot? Think again. Rep. Wale Raji, the head honcho of the House of Reps Committee on Livestock Development, wasn’t buying it. He bluntly called the budget “abysmally low” and suggested the ministry return with a supplementary budget.

And he’s got a point. Livestock development is no small task. Nigerians are counting on this ministry to deliver big-time, but with this budget, we’re looking at baby steps when we need giant leaps.

Even the Senate Committee Chairman on Livestock, Sen. Musa Mustapha, jumped into the convo. He gave the ministry some props for laying a foundation but clarified that they must show progress if they want more support. No pressure, right?

What’s Going On Inside the Ministry?

So, let’s peek behind the curtain. Minister Idi Maiha shared that the ministry is still in start-up mode. They’ve borrowed a few departments from the Ministry of Agriculture, but here’s the kicker—they don’t even have their own office yet. Yep, they’re currently squatting in the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF).

Maiha didn’t sugarcoat the challenges. They lack basic facilities and equipment to function as a full-fledged ministry. But hey, they’re hustling! Talks are already underway with the Federal Capital Territory minister to secure proper office space.

The minister also pointed out that while the budget is small, it’ll be enough to create a roadmap. Capital projects will be spread across all geopolitical zones based on local needs. Plus, there’s a plan to attract local and foreign investments. Sounds promising, right?

And here’s a cool twist: they’re rolling out a nationwide media campaign to get everyone hyped about the ministry’s goals. Expect to see a lot more livestock-related buzz on your timelines soon!

What’s Next?

The joint committee didn’t just drop criticism and walk away they offered solutions. They asked the ministry to harmonize their financial needs and bring back a supplementary budget. The committee also promised to fast-track its approval.

Everyone wants this ministry to succeed. After all, livestock development has massive potential to boost our economy, improve food security, and create jobs. But for now, the ball is in the ministry’s court to make a strong case for more funds.

So, fingers crossed for a better budget in the next round. Because, honestly, if we want big results, we’ve got to think bigger than N11.8 billion. Let’s hope the ministry gets the support it needs to make things happen!