The Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN) has commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for creating a dedicated Ministry of Livestock Development, carved out from the Ministry of Agriculture. The group described the move as a significant step toward boosting Nigeria’s economy and resolving the long-standing farmer-herder conflicts.
MACBAN President, Alhaji Baba Othman Ngelzarma, gave the commendation in Kaduna during the inauguration of the newly elected Kaduna State Executive of MACBAN. He noted that the establishment of the ministry would greatly enhance livestock production while also helping to manage the persistent clashes between farmers and herders.
Ngelzarma also applauded some Northern state governors who have already created similar ministries and urged Governor Uba Sani of Kaduna State and his counterparts in other states to replicate the federal initiative for greater impact.
At the event, Governor Uba Sani, represented by the Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, Dr. James Kanyip, called on the Fulani community in Kaduna to be law-abiding and live peacefully with their neighbors. He charged the new MACBAN leadership in the state to rise to the occasion, especially given the various security and social challenges facing the state.
“There is currently a stereotype associated with the Fulani identity. The leadership must work hard to change this narrative. The state government is committed to partnering with organizations that promote peace and harmony,” Dr. Kanyip said.
Also present at the ceremony were Kaduna State Commissioner of Police, Rabiu Muhammad, and DSS Director, Mr. Hakeem Abiola, who both praised the new MACBAN Chairman, Alhaji Abdulhamid Musa Albarka, as a dedicated and capable leader. They urged him to remain vigilant and cooperate with security agencies by reporting suspicious activities.
In his acceptance speech, Alhaji Albarka thanked all dignitaries for their presence and pledged to collaborate closely with security agencies and relevant government bodies to foster peaceful coexistence in Kaduna State.