How New Livestock Agency Will Boost Taraba Economy- Pastoralists

In a significant move aimed at transforming Taraba State's agricultural sector, Governor Agbu Kefas has approved the creation of the Taraba State Livestock Development Agency. The agency's establishment is part of the governor's administration's commitment to aligning with the Federal Government's Livestock Development Policy, positioning the state to capitalize on its rich livestock resources.

The Taraba State Livestock Development Agency is the fourth new agency to be announced by the state government in less than 48 hours. The development was officially disclosed in a press release signed by the Secretary to the Government of the State, Chief Gebon Timothy Kataps. The creation of the agency is expected to be a catalyst for the state's livestock sector, which plays a vital role in the local economy.

According to the press release, the initiative is aimed at tapping into the state's vast livestock population and its abundance of natural resources. By creating a specialized body to oversee the sector, the state government seeks to address the challenges facing the industry and ensure that livestock production remains a key driver of economic growth.

Pastoralists in Taraba State have welcomed the creation of the new agency, calling it a timely intervention given the numerous challenges currently faced by those in the livestock sector. Yarima Isa Tafida, a prominent livestock development stakeholder in the state, emphasized the importance of the agency, noting that pastoralists and livestock producers have long been advocating for such a move.

Tafida explained that the high cattle population in Taraba State necessitates a robust and strategic government policy to drive the sector forward. He noted that thousands of people across the 16 local government areas of the state rely on livestock production for their livelihoods. Taraba is home to over 12 major cattle markets, where cattle, goats, and sheep are traded on a daily basis, contributing significantly to the state's economy.

He also pointed out that the revenue generated from the livestock sector in Taraba is substantial, which further underscores the need for government intervention to modernize and develop the industry. "Sardauna Local Government Area, for example, has the highest population of cattle in the entire country," Tafida revealed. "In local government areas like Jalingo, Gassol-Ardo_Kola, Bali, Lau, Gashaka, and Karim-Lamido, hundreds of people are involved in livestock production."

Tafida believes the new agency will be instrumental in addressing key issues facing livestock production, such as conflicts between pastoralists and farmers, encroachment on grazing areas, and the need for modernization within the sector. By bringing greater structure and organization to the industry, the agency will improve the overall welfare of those involved in livestock production and boost the state's economy.

Hon. Tanko Bobboi Andami, the Chairman of the Rice Farmers Association of Nigeria (RIFAN) in Taraba State, also lauded the governor's foresight in establishing the agency. He described the move as a vital step toward advancing agriculture in the state, particularly the livestock sector.

"The Livestock Development Agency is crucial for enhancing agricultural practices and bolstering the local economy," said Hon. Andami. "This new agency will improve livestock management, provide veterinary care, promote modern ranching techniques, reduce farmer-herder conflicts, and create valuable economic opportunities for livestock farmers across the state."

Mallam Ardo Saidu added that the creation of the Taraba State Livestock Development Agency signals the beginning of a new era for the state's livestock sector, with hopes that it will bring much-needed reforms and growth.

He said the agency is expected to pave way for increased productivity, reduced conflicts among herders and farmers, and better economic prospects for the people of Taraba State in the livestock value chain.