The National Assembly Joint Committee criticized the ₦11.8 billion allocation for Nigeria's Federal Ministry of Livestock Development as insufficient. Challenges like inadequate facilities and temporary office space hinder progress. The committee urged a supplementary budget, emphasizing the need for proper funding to address climate impacts and boost the livestock sector.
The National Assembly Joint Committee on Livestock Development has criticized the ₦11.8 billion allocated in the 2025 budget for the Federal Ministry of Livestock Development, deeming it inadequate for the ministry’s effective launch.
The budget includes ₦10 billion for capital projects and ₦1.8 billion for overhead costs. Minister Idi Maiha, during a budget defense session, highlighted the ministry’s challenges since its creation three months ago, including the lack of office space, facilities, and essential equipment. The ministry currently operates from a temporary location at the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, with ongoing negotiations for a permanent office in Abuja.
Maiha assured the committee that the allocated funds could serve as a starting point, emphasizing the ministry’s focus on addressing climate change impacts, fostering economic growth in the livestock sector, and promoting youth and women’s participation in sustainable activities. He also outlined plans to attract local and international investments while launching public awareness campaigns about the ministry's initiatives.
In response, the committee urged the minister to submit a supplementary budget to better meet the ministry’s requirements. House Committee Chairman Wale Raji questioned the extent of support from the Presidential Implementation Committee, while Senate Committee Chairman Musa Mustapha pledged their support, stressing the need for regular progress updates.
The committee emphasized the need for adequate funding to enable the ministry to fulfill its mandate and meet public expectations effectively.
