Zamfara State Governor Dauda Lawal has assured the Ministry of Livestock Development that the state has available spaces and is ready for ranching.
The governor gave the assurance when he paid a courtesy visit to the minister of Livestock Development, Idi Mukhtar Maiha.
A statement by the governor’s spokesperson, Sulaiman Idris, revealed that Zamfara, being an agrarian state, plays a significant role in the mandate of the ministry.
The statement noted that the ministry was created in July 2024 to reform Nigeria’s livestock industry, create a safe environment, encourage local and foreign investment, and enhance food security.
During the visit, Mr Lawal expressed his administration’s willingness to collaborate in exploring Zamfara State’s full potential.
Mr Lawal said: “Honourable Minister, as you know, Zamfara is an agrarian society. That is why our motto is, ‘Farming is our pride.’
“We are here today to congratulate you on the establishment of this new ministry, which I believe is timely. Additionally, we aim to foster a strong collaboration between our state and the ministry.
“In Zamfara, several earth dams across the state need rehabilitation to provide for animals, and there may also be opportunities to accommodate any expanded initiatives.
“We invite the Honourable Minister and his team to visit Zamfara to assess the situation on the ground.”
While responding, Mr Maiha thanked the governor for the visit, saying: “Since the ministry was established, we have not received a visit from an executive governor who feels the need to hear what we have to offer.
“I want to assure you that we are prepared to collaborate with you to transform and address your concerns in the livestock sector in Zamfara.
“The livestock sector has long operated informally. We will modernise this sector through various strategic programs.
“Your Excellency, Zamfara State will be the pilot state to showcase the agenda of the new ministry. With this collaboration, we will turn the Gidan jaji in Zamfara into a mini agricultural hub,” the minister added.
