In a resolute move towards the advancement of the livestock industry in Nigeria, the Federal Government has restated its unwavering dedication to the National Pasture Planting Programme.
Dr. Ernest Umakhihe, the Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development, emphasized this commitment during the second commemoration of the National Pasture Planting Day (NPPD) held in Kuje Area Council, Abuja.
Introduced last year, the NPPD aims to foster year-round production of forage for livestock, while simultaneously mitigating conflicts between farmers and herders.
This initiative is seen as a significant stride towards achieving the goals outlined in the National Pastures Development Programme (NAPDEP).
The NAPDEP encompasses a range of overarching objectives. These include establishing a conducive environment for sustainable year-round pasture production, encouraging private entrepreneurs to engage in commercial pasture and fodder production, providing training and capacity-building programs on pasture production, processing, and marketing, and fostering harmonious coexistence between crop and livestock farming.
Addressing the Press, chairman of the Association of Pasture and Livestock Feed Producers, Processors, and Marketers of Nigeria, Muhammed Alibaba, highlighted the program’s impact.
He emphasized that its primary focus is not solely on producing feed and water for livestock, which has historically been a source of conflicts between farmers and herders. Rather, the program aims to redirect their focus towards recognizing the potential of the livestock sector as a lucrative avenue for economic diversification.
The timing of the National Pasture Planting Day holds particular significance as Nigeria grapples with various challenges, including food insecurity, conflicts between crop farmers and pastoralists, and cattle rustling.
By prioritizing the availability of fodder throughout the year, even during drought periods, the program significantly contributes to the reduction of conflicts among herders across the country.
