Abuja, Nigeria — The National Assembly Joint Committee on Livestock Development has expressed serious concerns over the ₦11.8 billion budget allocation proposed for the Federal Ministry of Livestock Development in 2025, describing it as grossly insufficient for the ministry’s effective establishment and operations.
The newly created ministry was allocated ₦10 billion for capital expenditure and ₦1.8 billion for overheads in the Federal Government’s 2025 budget.
During a budget defense session on Tuesday, Minister Idi Maiha, accompanied by top officials and agency heads, presented the ministry’s financial demands to the joint committee. He highlighted several pressing challenges, including the lack of office space, operational equipment, and critical facilities required for the ministry’s functionality.
“At present, the ministry is temporarily housed within the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, while discussions are ongoing with the Federal Capital Territory administration for permanent office accommodation,” Maiha stated.
Despite the financial constraints, the minister assured lawmakers that the initial allocation would act as a stepping stone for the ministry. He outlined its core mandate, which includes combating climate change effects, promoting economic opportunities in the livestock sector, and engaging youth and women in sustainable development initiatives.
Maiha added that capital projects would be strategically distributed across Nigeria’s geopolitical zones, based on specific regional needs, to attract both local and foreign investments. Furthermore, a nationwide sensitization campaign would be launched to educate the public on the ministry’s goals and activities.
The committee, however, emphasized the need for a more realistic financial plan. Wale Raji, Chairman of the House Committee on Livestock Development, urged the minister to submit a supplementary budget that aligns with the ministry’s operational demands. He also questioned the level of backing from the Presidential Implementation Committee for the ministry’s establishment.
In his remarks, Senate Committee Chairman Musa Mustapha pledged the committee’s full support to ensure the ministry achieves its objectives, urging the government to prioritize adequate funding.
As the Federal Ministry of Livestock Development prepares to tackle pressing challenges in the agricultural and environmental sectors, its ability to secure necessary funding remains a key determinant of its success.
Comments