****NVMA Calls for Urgent Action on Abattoirs

The Federal Government has reaffirmed its commitment to the development and sustainability of the livestock sector, recognizing its critical role in economic growth, food security, and employment creation.

The Minister of Livestock Development, Idi Maiha gave the assurance at the 2025 Annual Leadership Summit of the Nigerian Veterinary Medical Association (NVMA) in Abuja. Represented by the Chief Veterinary Officer of Nigeria, Dr. Columba Vakuru, Maiha highlighted the ministry’s efforts to transform the industry through strategic policies and stakeholder collaboration.
One of the administration’s landmark initiatives, he noted, is the establishment of the Federal Ministry of Livestock Development under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
‘The ministry was created to unlock the sector’s potential, address persistent farmer-herder conflicts, and ensure national food and nutritional security.”

According to the minister, the government is actively working with stakeholders to resolve long-standing challenges hindering the sector’s growth.
“The Ministry is working hard to bring about lasting solutions through a consultative and all-inclusive strategy. This requires good leadership, better governance, informed policies, and effective collaboration across all stakeholders,” he stated.
As part of its commitment, the ministry recently commissioned a 40-million-dose-capacity solar-powered National Strategic Vaccine Cold Room Storage in Abuja.
This facility, he said, will enhance the country’s ability to prevent, manage, and control livestock diseases, ensuring greater productivity and economic gains.

NVMA President, Dr. Moses Arokoyo, used the platform to stress the urgent need to address unhealthy conditions in abattoirs across Nigeria.
He described the deplorable state of slaughterhouses as a major public health risk, calling for immediate reforms to ensure food safety and hygiene.

“We must rise to condemn all unhealthy forms of protein production and slaughter in our abattoirs. The quackery and lack of regulation must stop. It is unsafe and unhealthy for us all,” Arokoyo warned.
He also raised concerns over the increasing threat of emerging and re-emerging zoonotic diseases, emphasizing that veterinarians must take the lead in disease control, food safety, and animal welfare.

“We live in a world where the rate of urbanization and human-animal interactions have led to frequent outbreaks of zoonotic diseases. Our role in raising awareness and ensuring public safety can no longer be handled with levity,” he stressed.
President of the Veterinary Council of Nigeria (VCN), Dr. Aishat Abubakar Baju, hailed the creation of the Ministry of Livestock Development as a bold step towards restructuring the industry. She assured that the council is committed to aligning with the government’s vision for livestock sector reforms.
“The establishment of the ministry and its implementation committee is a fantastic development. We at the council are committed to supporting the government to achieve its Renewed Hope Agenda for economic growth,” she said.
Keynote speaker, Dr. Junaidu Maina, Chairman of Danwaire Consulting Limited, underscored the need for veterinarians to take their rightful place in society.
He noted that the profession has made significant contributions to policy formulation, economic development, food security, and public health.
Maina called for better funding, research, and training to empower veterinarians and position them as key players in national development.
With the establishment of the Federal Ministry of Livestock Development, stakeholders agree that Nigeria is at a critical turning point in livestock industry reforms. However, they stressed that effective policies, stricter regulations, and active veterinary leadership are crucial to ensuring the sector’s long-term growth and sustainability.

As veterinarians commit to improving animal health, ensuring food safety, and combating zoonotic diseases, the government’s ability to implement meaningful reforms will be a key test of its commitment to Nigeria’s livestock transformation.

**Call on Global Stakeholders to Support Ongoing Efforts for Sustainable Cocoa Farming

The Cocoa Farmers Alliance Association of Africa (COFAAA) has applauded the International Cocoa Organization (ICCO) and the World Cocoa Foundation (WCF) for their groundbreaking contributions to the development of the global cocoa economy and the improvement of cocoa farmers’ livelihoods across Africa.

In a statement issued on Saturday COFAAA praised both organizations for their leadership in driving sustainability, economic growth, and community development in cocoa-producing nations.
The alliance highlighted the transformative impact of ICCO and WCF’s initiatives, which have empowered farmers, strengthened supply chains, and promoted sustainable agricultural practices.

“The unwavering commitment of ICCO and WCF continues to unlock opportunities for cocoa farmers across Africa, fostering growth and prosperity in our communities,” COFAAA stated.

Boosting Farmers’ Incomes: ICCO and WCF programs have significantly improved the living standards of cocoa farmers, ensuring financial stability and long-term viability in the sector.
Their efforts in advancing traceability have bolstered the integrity of the cocoa supply chain, ensuring compliance with international standards and fostering global trust.

Promoting Sustainable Farming Practices: Through collaboration with cocoa-producing countries, both organizations have championed sustainable farming techniques, protecting the environment while increasing yields.

Advancing Agroforestry Initiatives: ICCO and WCF’s focus on agroforestry has enhanced biodiversity and climate resilience, securing the future of cocoa farming in the face of environmental challenges.

COFAAA urged global cocoa stakeholders—including governments, private sector entities, and development organizations—to rally around ICCO and WCF to sustain these vital efforts.

“The future of cocoa farming lies in unity and collaboration. We call on all stakeholders to support ICCO and WCF as they continue to lead the charge toward a sustainable, prosperous cocoa industry,” COFAAA emphasized.

This endorsement comes at a critical time for the global cocoa industry, as stakeholders seek innovative solutions to ensure the sustainability and profitability of cocoa farming amidst rising environmental and economic pressures.

For more information:
Cocoa Farmers Alliance Association of Africa (COFAAA)
Email: [Insert Contact Email]
Phone: [Insert Contact Number]
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In a landmark move to reshape Nigeria’s agricultural landscape, the Agricultural Research Council of Nigeria (ARCN) today inaugurated a suite of advanced facilities designed to propel the nation’s food security efforts. The unveiling, led by the Honourable Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Senator Abubakar Kyari, featured a state-of-the-art Veterinary Clinic, an innovative Fish Production Facility, and a modern Stores Complex.

These projects are key components of President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which aims to enhance food security, empower smallholder farmers, and promote sustainable agricultural development across the country.

At the commissioning ceremony, Prof. Garba Hamidu Sharubutu, Executive Secretary of ARCN, underscored the significance of the new facilities. “These are more than just buildings; they represent our dedication to research-driven agricultural transformation and the empowerment of our farmers,” Sharubutu said.

The Veterinary Clinic, equipped with cutting-edge technology for disease surveillance and control, is poised to play a crucial role in managing zoonotic and transboundary diseases. This aligns with global health priorities, particularly in the wake of recent pandemics that have highlighted the importance of monitoring diseases that can transfer from animals to humans.

Meanwhile, the Fish Production Facility signals a major leap in aquaculture research and youth empowerment. The center features recirculatory water systems, biofiltration units, and modern fish processing kilns, setting the stage for large-scale fish farming and processing. ARCN has already trained over 150 youths through partnerships with ECOWAS and CORAF over the past two years, and this new facility is expected to double that impact.

A highlight of the event was the launch of the Renewed Hope Agricultural Technology Adoption Project (RHATAP). This flagship initiative is designed to bridge the gap between research and practical farming by equipping smallholder farmers with the latest agricultural technologies.

Senator Sabi Abdullahi, Honourable Minister of State for Agriculture, emphasized the transformative potential of the project. “Through RHATAP, we are not just increasing agricultural productivity; we are building resilience and ensuring that Nigeria’s farmers are equipped to lead on the global stage,” Abdullahi stated.
In a forward-looking move, Senator Kyari also inspected the ongoing construction of ARCN’s new Corporate Headquarters—a five-storey complex set to be completed by the end of 2025. The headquarters will include an exhibition hall for annual research showcases, office spaces for international research partners, and facilities for the Executive Secretariat.

As Nigeria faces the dual threats of climate change and food insecurity, these newly commissioned facilities represent a strategic response rooted in innovation and research. By integrating advanced technologies and fostering youth participation, ARCN is positioning Nigeria as a leader in agricultural development across Africa.

This bold initiative marks a significant turning point in Nigeria’s agricultural journey, reaffirming the nation’s commitment to sustainable growth through research, technology, and strategic partnerships.