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, describing it as insufficient for the ministry’s effective take-off.
The Federal Government allocated ₦10 billion for capital expenditure and ₦1.8 billion for overhead in the ministry’s 2025 budget. During the budget defense session on Tuesday, Minister Idi Maiha, accompanied by senior ministry officials and agency heads, presented the ministry’s financial requirements to the committee.
Maiha explained that the ministry, created from the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security, commenced operations three months ago but is facing significant challenges, including the absence of office space, facilities, and essential equipment.
He noted that the ministry is temporarily operating from the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, while discussions are ongoing with the Federal Capital Territory administration for a permanent office space.
Despite the budgetary constraints, Maiha expressed confidence that the allocated funds would provide a foundational roadmap for the ministry’s establishment.
He emphasized the ministry’s core mandate to address climate change impacts, generate economic opportunities in the livestock sector, and engage youth and women in sustainable activities.
Maiha also revealed that capital projects would be distributed across geopolitical zones based on specific needs and outlined plans to attract both local and foreign investments.
Additionally, he mentioned the ministry’s intention to launch a comprehensive sensitization campaign via national and local media to raise awareness about its objectives and initiatives.
In response, the joint committee urged the minister to present a supplementary budget that more accurately reflects the ministry’s financial requirements. Chairman of the House Committee on Livestock Development, Wale Raji, 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, reassured the ministry of the committee’s support in achieving its mandate, stating, “This meeting is a foundational step, but the ministry must accelerate its efforts and provide progress reports on the challenges outlined for us to offer necessary interventions.”
