MACBAN hails Tinubu on Livestock Ministry, urges states to follow
By Kunle Sanni
The Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN) has commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for establishing the Ministry of Livestock Development, describing it as a landmark decision that will strengthen the economy and help resolve ongoing farmer-herder conflicts.
Speaking in Kaduna during the inauguration of MACBAN’s newly elected Kaduna State executive, the association’s National President, Alhaji Baba Othman Ngelzarma, praised the separation of livestock affairs from the Ministry of Agriculture as a bold step toward transforming the sector.
In a report by The Nation newspaper, Ngelzarma revealed that the move could enhance economic productivity through livestock production while addressing the longstanding clashes between herders and farmers across the country.
He also praised some northern governors who have replicated the initiative at the state level and urged others—particularly Governor Uba Sani of Kaduna—to adopt the model for peace and economic development.
Governor Uba Sani, represented at the event by the Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, Dr. James Kanyip, urged Fulani community members in Kaduna to be law-abiding and promote peaceful coexistence.
Dr. Kanyip acknowledged the challenges faced by the Fulani, including growing negative stereotypes, and called on the new MACBAN leadership to rise to the occasion.
“There is a growing stereotype against the Fulani name. So, the leadership has a lot of work to do. The Kaduna State Government is ready to collaborate with any organization committed to peace and development,” he said.
President Tinubu approved the creation of the Federal Ministry of Livestock Development in July 2025 as part of a broader strategy to modernize Nigeria’s livestock sector, resolve herder-farmer conflicts, and boost agricultural productivity.
