The Minister of Livestock Development, Idi Mukhtar Maiha, has reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to advancing animal welfare and sustainable livestock systems during the International Conference on Animal Welfare and Sustainable Animal Systems held at Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, on Tuesday.
Speaking as the keynote speaker, the Minister highlighted the critical role of livestock in supporting livelihoods, ensuring food security, creating employment, and contributing to national GDP.
Addressing academics, industry stakeholders, policymakers, veterinarians, and student representatives, he noted: “From pastoral communities to poultry and aquaculture, livestock farming sustains millions of households. Yet challenges such as climate change, disease outbreaks, inadequate infrastructure, welfare inconsistencies, and growing antimicrobial resistance must be addressed.”
According to a statement by the Principal Information and Public Relations Officer, Oghenekevwe Uchechukwu, the minister outlined the Ministry’s strategic priorities, including strengthening regulatory frameworks to align with international animal welfare standards, investing in capacity building for veterinarians and livestock professionals, promoting climate-smart and welfare-friendly production systems, and enhancing quality assurance mechanisms to expand market access.
He further stressed the importance of collaboration with universities, the private sector, civil society, and international development organizations to achieve these objectives.
“Science, compassion, and sustainability must guide our interventions. Policies must be inclusive, ensuring pastoralists, smallholder farmers, women, and youth actively shape the future of animal welfare in Nigeria,” the Minister stated.
He also highlighted ongoing initiatives, including the development of customised livestock transport systems, improved feed and fodder production, and enhanced animal health management to ensure humane practices "from farm to fork".
The Minister was also awarded the Grand Patron of the Nigerian Society of Animal Welfare and Ethics (NSAWE), reaffirming his contributions and leadership in promoting sustainable and humane livestock practices.