News in brief: The Niger State government plans to revitalise neglected livestock and fisheries projects after an inspection tour of agricultural facilities by commissioners. The initiative aims to benefit youths, women, and civil servants, potentially boosting the state’s economy and food security.
Niger State government is working to revitalise a number of neglected and dilapidated livestock and fisheries projects across the state. This was revealed after the state government undertook an inspection tour of agricultural facilities in the state.
The assessment was carried out by commissioners heading various concerned ministries. Binta Mamman, Commissioner of Information; Aminu Takuma, Commissioner of Industry, Trade and Investment; Ibrahim Ijah, Commissioner of Livestock and Fisheries; and Umar Sanda, Commissioner of Nomadic and Pastoral Affairs were among the delegation.
The commissioners visited the Niger State Livestock Improved Breeding Centre, Tagwai Dam Fishing Hatchery, and the State Poultry Production Unit. They also conducted an assessment tour around the Rabbitry and the Veterinary Clinic.
After the assessment, Commissioner Mamman said that the facilities were in a state of disrepair and had been abandoned for a long time. She added that the government was committed to revitalising and making them profitable ventures for the state.
Also speaking in same vein, Commissioner Takuma expressed his disappointment with the condition of the facilities, saying that the state was losing revenue from them. He said that the government would look for investors to take over the facilities and operate them.
Meanwhile, Commissioner Ibrahim Ijah said that the project is designed to benefit youths, women, and civil servants. He added that it would cover poultry production, cattle production, small ruminant care, aquaculture, and pasture production.
Dr. Mathew Ahmed, Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Livestock and Fisheries, disclosed that the government was also looking into pasture production as feed for the livestock. He said that the state has feed mills that can produce 1.5 metric tons per hour.
He also noted that the Tagwai Dam Fishery Hatchery can hatch 18,000 fishes at a time while the poultry section can hatch 23,000 chicks per week.
The plan to revitalise these livestock and fisheries projects is seen by many as a welcome development. It has the potential to boost the economy and improve food security in the state.
